Laura Sharman 02 November 2017

New strategy unveiled to improve care of unaccompanied child migrants

A review of local authorities funding and updated guidance for councils will be published by the Government as part of a wider strategy on improving care for unaccompanied migrant children and child victims of modern slavery.

The strategy will also provide specialist training for 1,000 foster cares and support workers to improve their skills and confidence in caring for unaccompanied child migrants.

The Government will commission research into the effectiveness of existing support for unaccompanied children and families reunited under the Dublin Regulation and whether more help is needed.

Immigration minister Brandon Lewis said: 'Last year almost 3,000 unaccompanied children claimed asylum in the UK and they all require ongoing care and protection. This strategy will increase the information and support available to the local authorities who play a crucial role in looking after them.

'The government’s new training for foster carers and support workers will be backed by new funding worth £200,000, between 2017 and 2019. An additional £60,000 investment will provide a package of revised guidance, information and resources.'

The announcement has been welcomes by Unicef UK who said the strategy was a positive step forward for unaccompanied asylum seeking and refugee children.

Deputy executive director, Lily Caprani, said: 'We welcome the holistic approach set out in the new safeguarding strategy, including improved training and support for social workers, increased educational support, and a better process for children with a right to have their asylum claim transferred to allow them to be with family in the UK.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Director of Social Work and Social Care

Trafford Council
£100,731 to £104,625
You will join a values-driven senior leadership team, providing visible and responsive leadership. Manchester
Recuriter: Trafford Council

Housing Ombudsman

Housing Ombudsman Service
£130,095 per annum, negotiable based on experience.
The Housing Ombudsman Service allows colleagues to choose if they wish to work in the London office, from home or a hybrid of the two London (Greater)
Recuriter: Housing Ombudsman Service

Head of Legal and Monitoring Officer

Powys County Council
£90,347 – £98,135 per annum/y flwyddyn
We’re seeking an energetic, innovative, and inspirational leader to join our team at Powys County Council Powys
Recuriter: Powys County Council

Night Support Residential Worker

Essex County Council
£33013.00 - £41770.00 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Night Support Residential WorkerPermanent, Full Time£33,013 to £41,770 per annum (including allowance)Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Residential Worker

Essex County Council
£27934.50 - £35344.10 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
Residential WorkerPermanent, Full Time£27,934 up to £35,344 per annum (includes allowance)Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council
Linkedin Banner