The Head of Looked After Children introduced the report. He explained that Thurrock Council has a duty to children in the area who have no parents available to care for them. Central Government sets the limit for how many Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children each Local Authority should hold. Thurrock Council’s limit is 44, if they go over the limit they will seek to transfer the children to another Local Authority.

The following key points were highlighted: -

·       Members queried the current national figure of Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children. The Head of Looked After Children confirmed this was 5570 at the end of 2022 which is the latest data available.

·       Members queried what is in place to Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children are not vulnerable to county lines. The Head of Looked After Children confirmed they will have regular social work visits to build a relationship. There are a range of placement options available and some children will be placed in foster care. An initial assessment will be completed to find out how the children got to the UK and to find out what they want to do next. Concerns may be raised if they say they want to go to visit Big Ben as sometimes that means they plan to meet someone.

·       The Head of Looked After Children clarified that missing episodes can sometimes mean a teenager has stayed out over their curfew and was at a party or a friend’s house. It does not necessarily mean that their whereabouts is not known.

·       Members queried what happens if children are found with someone inappropriate. The Head of Looked After Children confirmed that a Strategy meeting would take place.

·       Members queried the age assessment process. The Head of Looked After Children responded that a full detailed has to be completed. Often children due to their difficult life experiences may look older than they are.

·       Members queried if X-rays could be taken to determine age. The Head of Looked After Children responded that the Home Office is looking at medical tests that could be completed to determine age. However, someone with a very specific set of skills would be required to complete an age assessment on bone structure.

·       Members queried if Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children are placed together. The Head of Looked After Children responded that it generally depends on the placements available on the day. There are a set of providers who are used to working with this cohort of children.

·       Members queried how the children can access therapy. The Head of Looked After Children confirmed that an initial health assessment will be completed to determine the child’s needs. If the child is showing signs of distress the social worker can make referrals and they should get a screening test within 5 days.

·       Members queried if any children opt to return home. The Head of Looked After Children stated that generally they feel home is unsafe and the idea of returning would therefore not be appealing.

RESOLVED:

1.1           That Members of the Committee are advised of the potential harms faced in relation to Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children presenting to Thurrock and review the work done to safeguard them.

At 19.29 The Head of Looked After Children left the meeting