Abstract
Research indicates children and young people in care have a high prevalence of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) as part of a complex set of vulnerabilities. This study describes the profile of language, literacy and communication abilities of a cohort of care leavers. The language, literacy and communication abilities of 44 young people leaving care between the ages of 16 and 26 years were assessed using standardized measures. Demographic data about the young people was collected along with a survey to key staff to capture their perceptions and experiences of the language and communication abilities of these young people. Ninety percent of the care leavers’ language abilities were below average and over 60% met criteria for DLD in combination with literacy difficulties, developmental disorders and social, emotional and mental health difficulties (SEMH). The implications of unidentified DLD on the lives of young people leaving care is discussed. Earlier identification of DLD is advocated to enable services to intervene to facilitate more positive outcomes and life chances for this very vulnerable population.
Highlights
If children in care do have high rates of Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) services need to identify and support these needs to facilitate more positive life chances. This current study builds on previous research [5,6,7] by profiling the language, literacy and communication abilities of young people aged 16 years and over who are moving from care into independence
Can key staff working with care leavers describe their language and communication abilities and does this align with the profile of language and communication ability described by the assessments?
This is a cross sectional study using standardised assessments to describe the profile of language, literacy and communication abilities of care leavers aged between 16 years to
Summary
In 2018, there were 75,429 looked after children in England [1]. These children are taken into the care of their Local Authority and may live with foster parents, in a residential children’s home or in other residential settings such as schools and secure units. If children in care do have high rates of DLD services need to identify and support these needs to facilitate more positive life chances This current study builds on previous research [5,6,7] by profiling the language, literacy and communication abilities of young people aged 16 years and over who are moving from care into independence. Given the age of these young adults, it is important to understand if and how standardised assessments align with their own perceptions of their language and communication abilities in addition to the perspectives of the professionals who support them This has the potential to further our understanding about DLD in this population and how their needs are perceived and met
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
