Theme

In the year ending March 23, according to the Department of Education data, there were 7290 unaccompanied-asylum seeking children and young people in care. We know there are more who are illegally placed in hotels or incorrectly age-assessed as adults. Many of these children and young people are vulnerable and experiencing discrimination. In this open course, we will explore their legal rights, think about their needs, how these can best be met and with what support.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the day, participants will have explored: 

  • Current context: data, definitions and why children leave
  • Risks to children: modern slavery, exploitation and child trafficking  
  • Legal context: Nationality and Borders Act 2022, Illegal Migration Act 2023 and Children Act 1989
  • Age assessment: process and best practice considerations
  • Local authority responsibilities and social work role: cultural competence and anti-racism, care and pathway planning, specialist legal advice and asylum process  
  • Meeting the needs of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children: physical care and health needs, emotional, social and educational needs
  • Fostering role: support and training needs of foster carers

Who should attend?

This course is for foster carers, adopters, social workers and anyone working with children who have travelled to this country from abroad and who do not/ or who have not had a responsible appropriate adult caring for them.

For social workers, reflection on this session may contribute to your continuing professional development (CPD).