‘Immense drop-off’ in support contributing to care leaver deaths in England, review says
Summary
A government review found that more than 100 young people who left care in England died within a year, with many deaths linked to a sharp decrease in support after they turned 18. The report shows care leavers face much higher death and suicide rates than other young people, especially because social services reduce help when they become adults.Key Facts
- The review examined the deaths of 112 care leavers aged 18 to 24 in 2025.
- Deaths among care leavers were 3 to 4 times higher than in the general population.
- Suicide rates among female care leavers were possibly 15 times higher than average.
- About 36% of these deaths were likely suicides, with one-fifth occurring at age 18.
- Many young people lost important support and connections after turning 18.
- Personal advisers assigned to care leavers often saw them only once every two months and were sometimes untrained.
- A government investment of £25 million aims to improve housing and support for care leavers.
- Since December 2023, local authorities must report care leaver deaths through a formal notification system.
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