In a significant move to support young people transitioning out of the care system, the UK government has announced a comprehensive package of measures aimed at reducing health inequalities and providing greater opportunities for care leavers.
The new initiatives, unveiled by the Department of Health and Social Care, will grant free prescriptions, dental, and eye care services to care leavers in England until their 25th birthday. This support, coupled with a pilot scheme for paid internships within the NHS and a guaranteed interview programme for NHS roles, seeks to address the stark challenges faced by those who have grown up in the care system.
“Those in care face the toughest start in life and as a result suffer from a barrage of health inequalities, hampering their chances of going on to lead a happy, successful and fulfilling life,” said Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting. “That’s why we’re taking cross-government action to transform life chances for these children and care leavers.”
The government’s plan also includes safeguarding measures that will alert GPs when young patients are in care, ensuring more seamless access to healthcare. Additionally, a three-year pilot will focus on improving mental health support for children in care, a critical area of need.
“The disadvantage faced by children who’ve grown up in care is a huge social injustice,” said Minister for Children, Families and Wellbeing, Josh MacAlister. “This package of health measures will make a tangible difference to reduce health inequalities, keep more children safe and help more families with intensive support.”
The guaranteed interview scheme, similar to existing NHS policies for people with disabilities, aims to provide a level playing field for care leavers in the job market. Candidates will have the option to declare their care experience, and if they meet the minimum criteria, they will be invited to an interview alongside other shortlisted applicants.
The government’s actions come in response to recommendations from the independent review of children’s social care, published in 2022. The forthcoming Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will enshrine in law the requirement for the government and public bodies to consider the challenges faced by children in care and care leavers, as well as the support they may need when transitioning to adulthood.
“This government is delivering meaningful change to break down barriers to opportunity, especially for those in care,” MacAlister added. “These measures will make a tangible difference in the lives of care leavers, empowering them to forge their own path and achieve their full potential.