A Home Office-commissioned evaluation of the family returns process, introduced in 2011 as part of the government's pledge to end child detention in immigration cases, found that overall it has had a positive impact on family welfare and safeguarding children.
But concerns were raised about the number of officers attending enforcement visits, and the use of body armour.
The report also said that increased contact between UK Border Agency staff and families in the process often heightened pressure on families, increasing threats of self-harm and disruptive behaviour.
“Disruptive behaviour ranged from threatening to drink bleach if they were made to go home, to refusing to listen to the case owners or physically attacking an enforcement officer,” the report states.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
