Today marks an important moment for Bright Futures UK.
We are proud to launch our first national research report exploring the impact of long-term illness on education for children and young people aged 5–24. At a time when education policy is under review — with significant proposed changes to SEND provision, EHCPs, and Individual Support Plans — this report brings a critical and often overlooked issue into focus.
Too many young people are missing from the conversation.
Download the review here.
The Hidden Scale of the Problem
Across the UK, an estimated 279,000 children and young people are currently out of education due to illness.
Behind this figure are thousands of families navigating not only serious physical or mental health conditions, but also the loss of routine, opportunity, and stability that education provides. For many, prolonged absence from school has lasting consequences, affecting academic outcomes, future employment, and long-term wellbeing.
The impact extends beyond individuals. Families face increased financial pressure, and the wider economy absorbs the long-term cost of disrupted education and reduced lifetime earnings.
Yet despite this, children excluded from school due to illness are too often absent from national policy discussions.
A Critical Moment for Change
This report comes at a pivotal time.
With SEND reform high on the agenda, there is a real opportunity to reshape how support is delivered to children and young people across the country. But reform cannot be truly inclusive if it overlooks those who are unable to attend school due to serious illness.
Our research sets out to change that.
It provides robust, evidence-based insight into the scale of the issue, the gaps in current provision, and the urgent need for policy solutions that recognise and support this group.
Bringing Evidence Into the Conversation
This report is not just about identifying a problem — it is about driving change.
By quantifying the scale of illness-related absence and highlighting its consequences, we aim to ensure that children and young people with serious health conditions are fully considered in policy decisions.
Because education should not be conditional on health.
And no young person should be left behind simply because they are unwell.
Read the Report
We invite policymakers, educators, healthcare professionals, and families to engage with this research and join us in shaping a more inclusive education system.
