Child refugee scheme set for UK-wide expansion

The government said it has introduced legislation for a UK-wide extension of the voluntary national transfer scheme, which launched in July 2016 in England to relieve pressure on areas with high numbers of UASC, including "gateway authorities" such as Kent County Council.

Once passed, councils across Scotland and Wales, and Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland will be able to participate in the scheme.

Since the scheme was introduced more than 550 children have been transferred between English councils, however, a number of local authorities have withdrawn from it amid criticism of the level of funding the Home Office is making available for those taking part.

During the summer Nottinghamshire County Council withdrew, citing the high cost of taking part. Three other councils in the East Midlands, Derby City, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire, have also pulled out due to the costs involved.

And in January Dorset County Council announced it was pulling out of the scheme, citing an estimated £3.6m shortfall in government contributions.

A study in the East Midlands in August found that councils taking part face an average shortfall in funding of £25,000 for every child they support. It said the average cost of supporting each child amounted to £55,194, of which the Home Office only reimburses £30,231.

Immigration minister Brandon Lewis said that the transfer scheme is essential to ensure all UASC children in the care of councils get the support they need.

"I am delighted that so many local authorities have already expressed their interest in getting involved. By bringing forward this legislation we will have a truly national scheme," Lewis said.

"I hope that going forward, local authorities from all across the UK will volunteer to play their part in providing protection for the thousands of children who need our help each year."

Wales secretary Alun Cairns added: "I want to be sure that all unaccompanied asylum-seeking children in Wales can secure the best possible care.

"Welsh local authorities have a long history of collaboration and I am glad that they are prepared to work together to support each other in this vitally important area."

In November 2016 the Association of Directors of Children's Services published a report that found that all but one of 44 councils surveyed thought the national funding was not enough. One council reported a shortfall of £60,580 per child.

Last month the government launched a safeguarding strategy for UASC which includes a pledge to review funding levels councils receive. This funding review is due to conclude by April 2018.

The strategy also sets out plans to provide specialist training for 1,000 foster carers and support workers to improve their support for unaccompanied child migrants. This will be backed by £200,000 of government funding up to 2019.

Guidance for councils on caring for this vulnerable group of children as well as child victims of modern slavery will also be updated.