World News
Review links reduction in social support at age 18 to care leaver deaths in England
A government-commissioned report found 112 young people who left care died in 2025, with isolated care leavers facing significantly elevated mortality and suicide rates.
The short version
- A government-commissioned review examined the deaths of 112 care leavers aged 18 to 24 in England during 2025.
- The report highlighted an "immense drop-off" in support at age 18, noting that one-fifth of the recorded deaths occurred at that age.
- The government responded by announcing a £25 million investment to develop connected housing options for young people leaving care.
- The review called for a major national review of the skills and training of the workforce assigned to monitor care leavers.
Key facts
- A government-commissioned review examined 112 care leavers aged 18 to 24 who died in England in 2025.[The Guardian]
- The death rate among care leavers in this group was three to four times higher than the general population.[The Guardian]
- The report estimated that 36% of the care leavers likely died by suicide, including 24 women.[The Guardian]
- One-fifth of all the deaths analyzed took place at age 18.[The Guardian]
- The government announced a £25 million investment into connected housing options, including supported and shared housing for care-experienced individuals.[The Guardian]
- Local authorities in England have been required to report care leaver deaths through a serious incident notification system since December 2023.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The review stated that suicide rates among female care leavers were potentially up to 15 times higher than the general population.[The Guardian]