children home alone?

[macdoodle]

Very responsible girl child almost 10. Left home for periods of up to 2 hrs in an area where neighbours home and well known to her.
She has been fine on the odd occasion.
NSPCC guidelines say shouldn't be left alone under 13.
Disagreement as to the "rights" of this?
Mother of child left alone says this child, in this area, on the odd occasion.
Friend of mother says it is "not right" under any circimstances.
Who is BU?

[exoticfruits]

Use common sense and know your DC -13 is very over cautious. As long as they are happy, know the rules and have emergency contacts it is good for them. I left mine before 13 yrs and I really don't know why people live in fear of SS.

[macdoodle]

Just to clarify the friends playing thing. We live in a quiet cul de sac, the kids all play out. She is allowed to play out, but is NOT allowed anyone into our house. I tell one or 2 parents that I am going out, not too worry, and she can go in alone. they are fine, and have done the same to me.
She has usually still been out playing when I get back.
I have a younger DD2 (age 3), and though she will play with her, I would not leave her alone looking after her of course at this age.
Am actually pretty disappointed in my friend, she has 2 older daughters (late teens), who are very sensible themselves. She was so unbending and cross, and adamant she was "right", not sure what she thought social services would do to me. To be so firm and judgemental of another parent is pretty nasty IMO.

[exoticfruits]

I wouldn't call her a friend! It wouldn't bother me if someone called SS in those circumstances.