Integration in a time limited space for asylum seeking young people. Ravi KS Kohli Professor of Child Welfare University of Bedfordshire

Key Questions what are we learning about the barriers and challenges to integration for separated children seeking asylum in the UK? what are some of the strategies that can support the integration of children into a new setting?

Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children Someone who is (or looks as if they are) under 18 years of age. Separated from parents or other adult relatives or guardians. Making an asylum application in their own right. Needs the protection of welfare services in the country of asylum while their claim is examined and settled.

Refugees in the World in million displaced million refugees million children. Mostly from Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia. Major host countries: Pakistan, Iran, Syria, Germany, Jordan, Kenya, Chad, China, USA, UK. In UK 3.84 refugees per 1000 people. 15,500 unaccompanied child applicants in 69 countries. 1,717 unaccompanied child asylum applicants in the UK.

17 or under: Initial decisions Total Numbers: 15,045 Discretionary Leave: 10,500 Refused: 2,885 Refugee Status: 1,540 Humanitarian Protection: 95

SafetyBelongingSuccess Anonymity ‘Thin’ Stories A labelled identity Restricted movement Sanctuary citizenship fellowship Kinship linking roots and shoots house and ‘home’ ‘Thick’ stories ‘Thick’ stories Choosing to move Education Money Status Education Money Status

The Scottish Guardianship Service 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.

A Guardian is... By their side On their side As they arrive, stay or leave.

Intended Focus of Work Scottish Guardianship Service Each separated young person has a significantly improved experience of the immigration and welfare processes. To develop a child-centred model of practice that: 1.promotes interagency working and 2.provides better information upon which to base immigration decisions

Year 1: Young People’s Views The young people feel positive about ‘their’ Guardians: friends, family members, trusted and reliable companions, trouble-shooters, connectors, diary organisers and guides. They helped reduce bewilderment and loneliness. Guardians offer clarity, kindness, repetition, de- briefing, constancy and companionship, trust, elasticity and ‘sense-making’ in a difficult world. She endures with me…

Domains of Guardianship Working Asylum Social Networks Well- being Social work Health Education Accommodation Lawyers Scottish Guardianship Service Scottish Guardianship Service UKBA Friends Project work Dancing Arts & crafts Social Activities

Asylum Seeker Refugee Child or adult? Age disputed Bogus Unaccompanied Foreign Trafficked Victim

Businessman Accountant Footballer Chef Billionaire Nurse President Basketball Player

Support Time Companionship Constancy and endurance. Bringing everyday life back. Dignity Supporting ambitions for safety, belonging and success.