Adults Lacking Mental Capacity: Child Trust Funds

Debate between Lord Lemos and Lord Macintosh of Eastwood

Wednesday 28th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

I should demur from those observations about the economy and defence, having listened to the Budget with enthusiasm. I am not sure about quick fixes, but I am sure that the Prime Minister is aware of the need to resolve this problem. We will do so, because it has gone on too long; I do not seek to pretend otherwise.

[Lord Macintosh of Eastwood (Lab)]

My Lords, I thank my noble friend the Minister for the work he is doing to improve access to child trust funds for young people with reduced capacity. However, is he aware that there are thousands of disadvantaged young people who are not even aware that they have these child trust funds? Is he aware of the work of the Share Foundation, in particular the campaign for release at 21, and will he look into that with a view to liberating these funds for people who need them?

[Lord Lemos (Lab)]

I am aware of that work, and I pay tribute to all the charities and other campaigners. I pay particular tribute to Andrew Turner, who has been heavily involved in this campaign on behalf of his son, Mikey, and to Sir Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, whose thoughtful and persistent advocacy has done so much to ensure that this issue receives the attention it deserves.