A government-commissioned review has branded the death rate among young care leavers in England a 'national tragedy’, finding that those who leave the care system have a death rate around four times higher than the general population. There were 112 deaths notified among care leavers aged 18 to 24 in 2025, equating to roughly 130 deaths per 100,000 — three to four times the general population's rate. Twenty-two deaths occurred at age 18 alone, which the report said reflected the 'stark challenges and pressures' young people face on leaving care and losing key support, often left 'with no safety net and with catastrophic consequences.' Just over a third of the deaths, 40, were thought to be suicide; other causes included murder, road accidents, drug misuse, and poorly managed health conditions. Report co-author Ashley John-Baptiste, who grew up in care, called the stories heart-breaking, saying, 'These young lives ended far too soon’. The , co-authored with experienced social worker Clare Chamberlain, calls for better preparation for independence and improved support from 'personal advisers’. From 30 September, new duties require councils to publish how they will support care leavers, who can no longer be found 'intentionally homeless’.