Young care leavers dying early: A 'national tragedy'
BBC News
Image source: PA Media
By Catherine Snowdon
Published 25 minutes ago
Young adults who have left care in England have a death rate around four times higher than the general population, according to a new review.
Often left alone "with no safety net," the report highlights the catastrophic consequences faced by these individuals. Upon turning 18, people leaving care often lose crucial support systems, the Government-commissioned report warns, emphasizing the need to address what is termed the "care cliff."
Ashley John-Baptiste, a broadcaster and report co-author who grew up in care, describes the deaths as a "national tragedy" during an interview on BBC Radio 4 Today.
The review reveals 112 care leaver deaths aged 18 to 24 were recorded in 2025, translating to approximately 130 deaths per 100,000 care leavers. Notably, 22 of these deaths occurred at age 18, suggesting the challenges faced by young people upon leaving care are stark and significant.
A third of the deaths were attributed to suicide, potentially five times the rate in the general population. Other causes included road traffic accidents, drug misuse, and medical mismanagement of conditions like diabetes.
Report Findings:
- Turning Point at 18: The report highlights that 18 appears to be a critical turning point, with a higher number of deaths occurring at this age.
- Support Variations: It critiques the personal adviser (PA) system, noting variations in support quality and PAs' limited interactions with care leavers due to minimal visiting requirements.
- Housing Concerns: The review criticizes the housing support provided, suggesting it often lacks a therapeutic or social work focus and is driven by profit-making interests.
- Government Response: The government plans to address these issues through a national rollout of connected housing options and emphasizes the importance of building "enduring relationships" in the care system.
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