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.'

Devolution and putting place first image

Devolution and putting place first

The real lesson of Andy Burnham's Makerfield success, argues Dr Jonathan Carr-West, is that place – not personality – is the key to Britain's future.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Practitioner - Children in Care - North Essex

Essex County Council
£48205.0000 - £57988.0000 per annum
Senior Practitioner - Children in Care - North EssexPermanent, Full Time£48,205 to £57,988 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Coroners Coordinator

Essex County Council
£25959.0000 - £26632.0000 per annum
Coroners CoordinatorPermanent, Full Time£25,959 to £26,632 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Adults Social Worker - Discharge to Assess

Essex County Council
£38487 - £51834 per annum
Interviews will be held in person at Rowan House, Colchester in late July 2026.This advert is open to Experienced Qualified Social Worker's About Our England, Essex, Colchester
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Organisational Development Adviser

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
43545 - 55992
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

School Crossing Patroller

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Pro Rata Salary - £5353,77
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Linkedin Banner