William Eichler 19 December 2023

Child trafficking victim owed back payments

Child trafficking victim owed back payments image
Image: lazyllama / Shutterstock.com.

A child trafficking victim is entitled to back payments after the Home Office and Barnet Council left him without adequate care and support, the High Court has found.

The ruling comes after the 22-year-old Eritrean national, referred to as AM, won a judicial review of the council and the Home Office’s handling of his case after a hearing in the High Court in July.

AM, who has been granted refugee status in the UK, was left traumatised after suffering repeated episodes of violent exploitation and trafficking as a child.

Mr Justice Lane found that Barnet Council had failed to consider whether AM was a victim of human trafficking and to take this into account when assessing his needs and planning his care.

A Barnet Council spokesperson said: ‘We provide all unaccompanied asylum-seeking children in our care with support, including financial support, counselling and specialist services according to their needs. In this case, which dates back to 2018, the child was also offered support but didn’t always accept it.

‘This was a particularly complex case and, while we are disappointed with the outcome, we will learn any lessons where we can.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner