Emotional scars from growing up in care ‘passed down generations’

Emotional scars associated with growing up in care are passed down through generations, according to a UK-first study.

Care leavers were at greater risk of depression and anxiety, and their children experienced higher levels of psychological distress, according to research by University College London (UCL).

But with the right support network many of these children can “beat the odds to succeed in school, at work and in family life”, the report’s lead author said.