Wes Streeting has announced that thousands of young people leaving care will be entitled to free prescriptions, dental, and eyecare services until they reach the age of 25.
The Health Secretary emphasized that these measures are aimed at assisting individuals in care who have faced significant challenges early in life and are confronted with various health disparities. As part of the reforms introduced, family doctors will be notified about children in foster care or children’s homes to ensure that no young person is overlooked.
A new three-year pilot program will focus on enhancing access to mental health support. Additionally, the government plans to test a program offering paid internships for care leavers within the NHS and establish a guaranteed interview scheme for health service roles.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) stated that tens of thousands of care leavers will benefit from complimentary prescriptions, eye care, and dental care until the age of 25. In 2025, there were over 50,000 care leavers aged between 17 and 21.
DHSC highlighted that young people in care often lack support after turning 18, leading to a heightened risk of mental health issues. They encounter challenges in accessing healthcare, including difficulties in registering with a GP or dentist, and are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness and unemployment.
The recommendations stem from children’s minister Josh MacAlister, who previously served as the government’s social care advisor at DHSC. MacAlister expressed the government’s commitment to addressing the inequalities faced by children in care and care leavers through comprehensive actions.
Streeting expressed determination to tackle the health inequalities and barriers that care leavers encounter, aiming to provide all children with a promising start in life. He commended the government’s efforts and initiatives led by MacAlister to support care leavers in achieving better healthcare and career prospects.