Professor Emma Cave from Durham Law School has contributed to a new UK parliamentary report on the transition from children’s to adult health and social care services in England. The report highlights significant shortcomings in the support available to young people.
Professor Cave is a core member of the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee’s Independent Expert Panel, chaired by Professor Dame Jane Dacre.
The politically impartial Panel brings together permanent members and subject specialists to evaluate health and social care policy and practice.
The report, published on 6 November 2026, identifies serious concerns about the support available to young people as they move into adult services, particularly those with complex physical and mental health needs.
Key findings include inadequate planning, poor co-ordination between services, insufficient involvement of young people in decisions about their care, and inequalities in access to support.
The report highlights the need for more joined-up, person-centred approaches that reflect young people’s individual needs rather than relying on rigid age thresholds.
Professor Cave’s involvement reflects Durham Law School’s contribution to national discussions on healthcare policy, law and the protection of vulnerable patients.
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