22 May, 2026
Members of the My Future Me Advisory Team at The For Baby’s Sake Trust have written to Josh MacAlister MP, Minister for Children and Families, to share their lived experiences and recommendations following the government’s review into the deaths of care leavers. Their letter highlights the challenges faced by care-experienced young people and calls for meaningful action to improve support and outcomes.
The government recently announced a review into the deaths of care leavers following data showing 91 notifications of care leaver deaths in 2024-25, the majority involving young people aged between 16 and 21. The review, led by care-experienced author and broadcaster Ashley John-Baptiste and experienced social worker Clare Chamberlain, aims to better understand the circumstances surrounding these deaths and identify how vulnerable young people leaving care can be better supported.
In response, members of the My Future Me Advisory Team at The For Baby’s Sake Trust wrote to Josh MacAlister to share their perspectives. The Advisory Team is made up of care-experienced young people who work with the Trust to co-produce My Future Me, a trauma-informed therapeutic programme currently being piloted to support care-experienced young people in developing healthy relationships for life.
Drawing on their direct lived experience, the group wanted to ensure that the voices of care-experienced young people are heard as part of this important conversation. The letter below reflects the views and experiences of the Advisory Team and has been signed by all members. It discusses sensitive topics, including bereavement, mental health, and the challenges faced by young people leaving care.
