Research indicates that children seeking asylum in London require enhanced protection and assistance, as they “confront difficulties on a daily basis.”
In recent years, approximately one-third of all unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors under the care of local authorities in England have been supported by various boroughs in London.
A study conducted by London Councils, which represents the local governments of the capital, revealed that the majority of these young individuals find the asylum process challenging, with some even finding it deeply traumatic.
The government has stated its commitment to addressing the highlighted issues, emphasizing that “the safety and welfare of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children is our highest priority.”
This study, carried out in collaboration with the Association of London Directors of Children’s Services, found that young asylum seekers described the current asylum process as lengthy and fraught with uncertainty.
Researchers collaborated with former young asylum seekers, including Gersi from Albania, to gather insights. Gersi, who arrived in Croydon alone at the age of 16, continues to seek asylum in the UK nine years later.
“It was very challenging at first—I was unsure about what to do or where to go, and I didn’t know English,” he shared. “I lacked someone to talk to about my feelings and confide in. That made everything more difficult. Without trust, navigating the system becomes overwhelmingly complex.”
These sentiments were echoed by Gersi and other researchers who spoke with 15 young asylum seekers currently living in the city.
Nearly all of them reported experiences of “confusion and delays.” They described the age assessment process as “intrusive and retraumatizing,” which resulted in some being incorrectly classified as adults and thus denied access to services intended for minors.
The study highlighted that young asylum seekers frequently encounter “major obstacles” in obtaining clear information regarding their rights and entitlements, often remaining unaware of their eligibility for advisory services.
Following the findings, London Councils and the Association of London Directors of Children’s Services presented several recommendations to the government, including:
Anthony Okereke from London Councils remarked, “We recognize that unaccompanied children and young asylum seekers face ongoing adversity within boroughs throughout London under the current system.
“Reforms that emphasize the rights, voices, and well-being of these young individuals are urgently needed. From legal assistance to integration services, boroughs are advocating for a compassionate and coordinated approach to help these youths create safe and hopeful futures.”
A spokesperson for the Home Office acknowledged the research conducted by London Councils and the Association of London Directors of Children’s Services, affirming their intent to engage with the issues presented.
“The safety and welfare of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children is our foremost priority,” the spokesperson said. “Caring for these children necessitates collaboration with local authorities across the UK.
“We ensure that immediate, trauma-informed care is available upon arrival for unaccompanied asylum-seeking minors arriving by small boat, featuring an advice line, a signposting service, and face-to-face support throughout the asylum journey.”
