Children in care are more likely than other children to have been physically abused, injured and neglected.

Often they have lived at many homes before being looked after and, as a result, they may not have received continuity of health care. They are more likely to have physical health problems than their peers and there is often nobody who has an overview of their health needs or history. Whilst they are nearly always treated for acute illness, chronic illnesses and dental care may be neglected.


A significant minority of looked after children have a physical disability and a sizeable proportion, about a quarter, have a learning disability - in a minority of cases a serious one (Ref: SCIE Practice Guide 3, 2004).

Ensuring that health checks are made regularly is a good way of showing your relationship and care for the young person. Talking to the child, carers and checking the medical records will help you understand the child's medical history.


What do young people themselves say about what they think is important in their health care?

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  • First Aid Box - Staff should be trained in first aid and how to deal with small injuries.
  • Nurse - "They need to know when something needs to be referred to an expert."
  • Tablets - "Staff should not just stick to their favourite remedies, like paracetamol and milk of magnesia."
  • Stethoscope - "Staff should not do complicated assessments with the accompanying paperwork just to get a plaster."
  • Cup of Tea - "Staff should be sympathetic and avoid saying: 'You'll get over it!' or 'Don't die on me!'"
  • Hot Water Bottle - "Staff should make allowances for ill health and tiredness."
  • Mannequin - "Staff should know about things that cause illness."
  • Folder of Files - "I want to know my own medical history and staff should know it too."
  • Kitten - "Staff should know what you may be allergic to."
  • Packet of Pills - "Staff should know more about drugs."
  • Vaccuum Cleaner - "Staff should make sure we have a healthy diet and pay attention to food hygiene: we don't like hairs in our food!"