The Stark Reality of Care Leavers
The outcomes for children who grow up in care are nothing short of alarming. A crucial part of our welfare state, established to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable young people, is failing them in life-altering ways. Care leavers confront a staggering 62% higher chance of dying before the age of 75 compared to their peers, coupled with a fourfold risk of encountering criminal convictions or cautions. Even as the number of children in care dropped from its peak of 83,750 in 2023, the latest count of 81,770 remains a disturbing 17.7% higher than a decade ago.
Reforms and Their Limitations
In recent times, the government has touted a series of reforms aimed at aiding care leavers, including free prescriptions and eye tests for those transitioning out of the system. However, it's essential to acknowledge that such measures alone will not rectify the plethora of issues that plague them. The woeful financial positions of many local councils and the debilitating state of public services significantly impact care leavers more than others.
A 2025 survey illuminated that the retention and recruitment of social workers is the crux of the workforce problems facing English councils.
Moreover, we face a sobering shortage of foster carers, a crisis worsened by the impending consultation aimed at broadening caregiver eligibility.
A Wider Crisis
The issue extends beyond just England. Unlike in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—where children's social care is devolved—many proposed reforms will not benefit the 23,230 looked-after children in those regions. Therefore, while some efforts have been made here, they risk reinforcing a patchwork system that treats care leavers differently based on geography.
Necessary Progress in Health Care Support
Despite their inherent limitations, the recent reforms should be viewed as a partial victory. The new access to free prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests for care leavers up to the age of 25 is a step in the right direction. The removal of financial barriers is crucial for ensuring these young adults can seek necessary medical treatments without the added burden of costs.
A Critical Need for Continued Support
It's vital for us to recognize that young care leavers face a disproportionate disadvantage, especially in comparison to their peers who might benefit from familial support during crucial years. It's concerning that only about 14% of care leavers successfully transition to higher education. We need to draw lessons from Scotland, where financial initiatives have contributed positively to care leaver university attendance.
Future Perspectives
Institutions must also acknowledge the evolving understanding of youth development. A recent study posits that brain development remains active until the age of 32, challenging the conventional age of adulthood. It's imperative that policymakers like Josh MacAlister, the children's minister, capitalize on this understanding to further advocate for systemic changes in children's social care.
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Source reference: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jan/02/the-guardian-view-on-care-leavers-responsibility-for-looked-after-children-does-not-end-at-18
