Barnardo's has responded to the Immigration and Asylum Bill, introduced to Parliament yesterday.
Lynn Perry, chief executive of Barnardo’s, said: “Every child seeking sanctuary is, first and foremost, a child. A child that may have experienced the trauma of war, violence or the loss of close family members before even reaching double digits. A child that deserves to be believed, respected and treated with dignity so they can begin to rebuild their life.
“While we welcome the proposal for all exploited or trafficked children to have access to an independent guardian – something we have long campaigned for - we have serious concerns about other areas of this bill and wider reforms. That includes proposals to narrow the definition of “family”, extending the use of force on children during enforced removals, and changes to the support given to families already living in destitution, and to care leavers who have not been granted asylum.
“We believe these changes put more children and young people at risk of destitution, exploitation and prolonged separation from loved ones. We urge the government to put children’s best interests and their welfare at the heart of every decision – and to make sure the UK remains a place where children and families seeking sanctuary are protected and supported to live happy, and safe, lives.”