Government review links care-leaver deaths to abrupt loss of support at 18
Source Summary
A government-commissioned review found that more than 100 care leavers in England died in a year, with death rates three to four times higher than the general population. The report attributes these deaths to profound isolation caused by a dramatic drop-off in social services support when young people leave care at age 18. The review describes the situation as a national tragedy, with many left vulnerable and alone before their deaths.
Why it matters
The review identifies a critical gap in the social safety net where vulnerable young people lose institutional support precisely when they face the greatest risk, directly contributing to preventable deaths.
