🔗 Share this article In excess of 2,000 Trafficked Children and Lone Child Refugee Applicants Lost from British Councils’ Care Based on data disclosure figures, in excess of two thousand minors who were either victimized or arrived in the UK unaccompanied to apply for protection went missing from protective services last year. Analysis Discloses Disturbing Figures A study titled “Until the Danger Ceases” submitted data inquiries to youth protection agencies across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Data from 135 government bodies indicated that out of two thousand three hundred thirty-five minors classified as having been victimized or potentially exploited, eight hundred sixty-four (37%) were listed as disappeared. In total 141 government bodies replied to questions about solo young asylum applicants in their care, who numbered eleven thousand nine hundred ninety-nine minors. Of these, one thousand five hundred one (13%) were reported missing. High Risk for Vulnerable Minors The analysis, published by advocacy groups, cautions that these populations are at “extremely elevated danger” of disappearing from care. A number of victimized young people in the UK are UK nationals while others are from abroad. They are likely to have been subjected to either abuse for sexual purposes or unlawful manipulation, for example by organized crime groups. Systemic Failures in Care Municipal councils have a legal obligation to protect and assist trafficked and unaccompanied children under minor welfare structures. Nonetheless, there is no published federal data on the issue. The new report warns that factors such as unstable residency permits can heighten young people’s exposure to continued risk, placing them at serious threat of re-exploitation and further abuse. Appeals for Intervention The report states there is a “persistent and serious deficiency” in care and appeals to local authorities and police to guarantee compliance with good practice. The researchers also urge the National Education Department to guarantee all trafficked and unaccompanied children can obtain suitable housing that shields them from being exploited again. Housing Issues Starting in September 2021, government bodies have been mandated to guarantee that all wards of the state under 16 are located in settings that provide care. However, teenagers aged 16 and 17 can still be placed in so-called “supported accommodation” that does not offer day-to-day care. In exceptional circumstances, these teenagers can be located in hostels, trailers, tents, boats, or communal living with unrelated adults. Expert Comments “This study highlights the threat trafficked and unaccompanied children face. It remains challenging to comprehend why these children continue to be let down. They are regularly disappointed by the systems meant to support them, whilst being punished by rules that worsen the problem.” “Every child should experience shielded and cared for, yet trafficked and unaccompanied children are repeatedly failed by the very systems designed to safeguard them.” Administration Response A government spokesperson stated: “Our leadership took over a minor protection structure not meeting the demands of the state’s most endangered young people. “Our major youth welfare and education legislation is the biggest overhaul of youth welfare in a long time, delivering on our goal to eliminate the relationship between young people’s origins and their future success.” The representative continued that the steps include bettering the supply of care placements, improved communication, mandating the establishment of collaborative minor protection units in every area, and implementing a new obligation on associates to systematically involve education and childcare settings in their safety measures to help avoid children falling through the cracks.