Young care leavers dying early a 'national tragedy'
Those leaving care have a death rate around four times higher than the general population, a new review reveals.
A new review reveals that young adults leaving care in England face a death rate around four times higher than the general population, highlighting a "national tragedy." Upon turning 18, these individuals often lose crucial support systems, leading to catastrophic consequences. The government-commissioned report, co-authored by Ashley John-Baptiste and Clare Chamberlain, found that 112 deaths of care leavers aged 18 to 24 were notified in 2025, equating to approximately 130 deaths per 100,000 care leavers.
Of these deaths, 22 occurred at age 18, suggesting a significant turning point in their lives when they leave care. Suicide was the leading cause, occurring in 40 of the cases, potentially five times more than the general population. Other factors included murder, road traffic accidents, and drug misuse, as well as unmanaged medical conditions like diabetes.
The report emphasizes the need for better preparation for adulthood and an overhaul of the support workforce. Personal advisers (PAs) provide the primary support, but the review found their assistance varies greatly in quality, with minimal visiting requirements. The housing and accommodation support is also criticized, often coming from a profit-making arm of the service, lacking therapeutic or social work focus.
Children's Minister Josh MacAlister emphasized that care must build and foster relationships, becoming the "central obsession" of the care system.
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