This evidence review was commissioned to explore how longitudinal quantitative data can support monitoring the health and wellbeing of Scotland’s care experienced children and young people, in line with The Promise 2030.
The findings showed that care experienced children and young people face persistent health inequalities compared to the general population. This included markedly higher risks of mortality, developmental concerns, substance use, and hospitalisation.
Mental health challenges were particularly pronounced, including elevated rates of psychiatric admissions, self-harm, and suicide. Physical health concerns such as epilepsy and poor dental health were also more prevalent. Some evidence showed that outcomes varied by placement type.