In recent years, the number of unaccompanied children claiming asylum in the UK has risen significantly, with 3,175 children arriving in 2016 (accounting for just over 10 per cent of all asylum applications in 2016 compared with over 16 per cent in the "peak period" of 2008). These are children who have often experienced months or years of conflict, violence and trauma. They have a range of support needs, both emotional and practical, and can be extremely vulnerable.
Once in the UK, unaccompanied children become the responsibility of local authority children's services. All too often they are not provided with the accommodation or support they need - either due to lack of capacity and resources or a lack of understanding.
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