Thousands of young people leaving care will receive greater housing and support as the government begins the national rollout of an expanded housing programme designed to provide stronger community connections and reduce loneliness among care-experienced young adults.

The initiative, backed by £25 million this year, follows the publication of an independent review into the early deaths of care leavers aged between 18 and 24. The review was led by author and broadcaster Ashley John-Baptiste and social work leader Clare Chamberlain.