Problematising separated children: a policy analysis of the UK ‘Safeguarding Strategy: Unaccompanied asylum seeking and refugee children

This mixed methods study took place in the context shaped by the provisions of the 2016 Immigration Act, when the Scottish Government, COSLA, and local authorities have entered into negotiations with the Home Office to facilitate the arrival of children and young people to Scotland. The research sought to explore the capacity, experience and understanding of local authorities to provide a support system that can best ensure the wellbeing of children. The study planned to conduct a survey across all 32 Scottish local authorities; undertake a qualitative analysis of key policy and guidance and to conduct focus group interviews with professionals in the field to explore in depth the findings of the first two stages. Due to access and engagement issues, it was not possible to do focus group interviews. The findings of the report are based on the return of 14 questionnaires (44% of local authorities in Scotland) and a policy analysis of four key documents

Our findings indicated that local authorities reported higher numbers of unaccompanied children coming in to care and that in those local authorities that had larger numbers of children, there was greater familiarity with the processes and procedures, both in relation to immigration and welfare issues and legislation. Across all authorities, findings highlighted some inconsistency in guidance consulted, with little indication of specific guidance in relation to unaccompanied children in use universally. Age assessments were the most common assessment undertaken by local authorities, although only three local authorities indicated they had consulted age assessment guidance. Finally, there was clear recognition of the needs presented by children and local authorities indicated they drew on the expertise of a number of partner agencies to support children and young people.