Local authority leaders have welcomed an announcement that care leavers will receive free prescriptions, dental and eyecare services up to the age of 25.
Cllr Amanda Hopgood, chair of the Local Government Association’s Children, Young People and Families Committee, described the move as a ‘positive step’.
However, she added that care leavers must be supported to access NHS dentistry, ‘as persistent “dental deserts” are deepening health inequalities, particularly in more deprived and rural areas.’
She added: ‘The Government should also consider how it can go even further, such as through a national government-funded council tax exemption for those leaving care, as well as providing long-term support around mental health and housing.’
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