Children's Commissioner for England, Sir Al Aynsley-Green has reminded local authorities they have a duty to look after young asylum-seekers in their care. In a report on the care of unaccompanied asylum-seekers in Hillingdon LBC, the commissioner found many young people had little understanding of the legal responsibilities of the council or their own rights in dealing with the local authority. He found many unaccompanied asylum-seeking children were isolated, had a lack of access to health or education services and a lack of clarity over their legal status. He criticised the policy of discharging young people from care aged 16. Sir Al said: ‘Local authorities have a duty of care towards all children looked after by them, regardless of their background. Their best interests must be the paramount consideration.' He urged ministers to ensure better funding for councils to improve services to young asylum-seekers.
