Support for Unaccompanied Children from abroad who are seeking Asylum

Children who have no parent or guardian in the UK, who present in the Swindon Borough area to make a claim for asylum are referred to Children Services.  They would be allocated a social worker within the Children and Families team who will support them to access services such as health, education, legal representation and suitable accommodation. Whilst they remain in the UK the child would be deemed Looked After and supported financially, until they are 18 or until 24 if they are in full-time education.

People seeking asylum, who have community health needs will be assessed by Children Services.  There is access to interpreters if needed.

The Swindon Multi Agency Forum for Asylum Seekers and Refugees is chaired by Children Services. The forum meets every two months and reports to the regional forum under the Local Government Association.