Scottish Guardianship ServiceCatriona MacSweenService Manager and Scottish Refugee CouncilClare TudorChildren's Policy Officer

Why do children flee their country? War/conflict Persecution for imputed

political opinion Trafficked to the UK Fear of sexual violence/

sexual slavery Conscription of child soldiers Human Rights abuse

Inter-ethnic/ Inter-religious conflict

Female Genital Cutting Sexuality Land disputes/blood feuds Forced (underage)

marriage Fear of honour killing

What are separated children's needs/issues? Meeting basic needs – food, shelter, safety, time to adjust and recover Physical and mental health issues, including pre-flight and on-route

experiences and the after-effects of trauma Cultural needs – Halal food, religion, cultural differences Communication needs Understanding and navigating complex immigration and welfare

system Limited formal education leading to low levels of literacy or numeracy Fear and mistrust of adults in positions of authority Uncertainty about their future, lack of stability Age Assessments and age disputes

Who cares for these young people?

Social Work - Statutory responsibility falls to the Local Authority they arrive into up until the age of at least 18

Supported under The Children (Scotland Act ) 1995, sec 22, 25 and possibly 29 (Leaving Care) SW is “care manager” throughout stay

UKBA placed itself under Sec 55 Duty (BCI Act 2009) - requires the UK Border Agency to make arrangements to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in discharging its immigration, nationality and general customs functions

Definition A Guardian is someone who

accompanies children and young people when they claim asylum or are trafficked and are cared for by health, education and welfare services.

A Guardian will help a child or young person to be actively involved in decisions that affect their life and to get the help they need, when they need it.

A Guardian is on the child’s side, can explain what is happening to them, will listen to their views and experiences and speak up for them when needed.

A Guardian will also help a child or young person to plan their future, whether in the UK or elsewhere.

Facts and Figures Supported 103 young people Average age on arrival 16-17 75% boys versus 25% girls 22% from Afghanistan followed by 18% Vietnam, 13%

Somalia, 12% Iran and 11% Nigeria 33% present with indicators of trafficking Working with young people from 17 countries and 26

different languages

What is our approach? Holistic, child centred and rights

based

Secure base & building resilience

Asylum teachers & sense makers

Additional time spent with young people

Flexible and bespoke approach

Independent Advocates

Responsible adult role

Bridging, linking and co-ordinate

Contribute to the identification of durable solutions

Supporting Agencies

System Improvement

Participation groups

Tea and toast!