Independent Commission on Adult Social Care

Lord Laming Excerpts

Wednesday 17th September 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

I agree, and I would broaden that out to the whole emphasis on housing generally. Housing is a critical factor in the ability to thrive, to live independently and to move forward, but it is also about place and making sure that everyone has the opportunity to live near their supporters around them. This is a huge area of work. I hope that our commitment to improving housing in this country is known and understood, and this is a very important element of that.

[Lord Laming (CB)]

My Lords, it is a pleasure to follow the noble Baroness, Lady Monckton. Does the Minister agree that we are still writing off too many young people as unemployable because the focus has been on what they cannot do, rather than concentrating on what they would be enabled to do with the right kind of support and help? Does the Minister agree that we really need to change our attitude to be altogether more positive, creative and supportive, especially of these young people?

[Baroness Blake of Leeds (Lab)]

The noble Lord, as always, raises a fundamental point. One area that I have most concern about is that of transition. Some young people could be getting very valuable and profound support while they are of school age, but the transition into adulthood is where the gaps occur. We recognise this, and are working on a whole range of issues to make sure that they have opportunities. We need to make sure that every young person has the opportunity to thrive, whatever their background, whatever their health needs, and this Government are committed to do just that.