Safeguarding Children from Abroad ─ Refugee, Asylum Seeking and Trafficked Children in the UK

Children from abroad who are alone in the UK are vulnerable and at increased risk of harm without the care and protection of their parents or caregivers. They may be unaccompanied asylum seekers, refugees, or victims of trafficking. This book examines the issues and problems faced by these children, what their needs are, and how these needs should be met in order to ensure their effective safeguarding. It demonstrates that these children often receive a different level of service to children who are UK citizens, and examines how these gaps in services can be addressed. Chapters cover the identification and age assessment of separated children, accommodation provision, private fostering, mental health, detention and returns, and the role of the guardian. Case studies and best practice points are included throughout the book. This important book will be essential reading for all those who encounter separated children, including social workers, counsellors, health care professionals and those working in the voluntary sector.

Emma Kelly is Lecturer in Social Work (Safeguarding Children), University of Salford, UK. She has worked in the field of safeguarding children for many years, and her particular expertise and interest lies in safeguarding children from abroad and trafficked children. Farhat Bokhari is an independent consultant. She has spent several years researching and writing on separated migrant children.