An MP has sought assurances about provision for the future for young people with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions.

Pudsey MP Stuart Andrew asked for the assurances during the Second Reading of the Care Bill.

Mr Andrew said: “There are more than 40,000 children and young people aged up to 19 in England who have long-term health conditions which, for most, will eventually end their lives and for which they may require palliative care.

“Medical advances mean that more young people with a range of different conditions are living into adulthood than ever before. This represents a 30 per cent increase over ten years. The highest rate of increase is among those aged 16-19, who now account for 4,000, or one in ten, of 0-19-year-olds who need palliative care and it is vital that in such cases, a child’s carer’s assessments should be undertaken before the young person is 16 and adequate provision for the future is determined.”