Children from abroad who are alone in the UK are vulnerable and at increased risk of harm without the care and protection of their parents or caregivers. They may be unaccompanied asylum seekers, refugees, or victims of trafficking.

This book examines the issues and problems faced by these children, what their needs are, and how these needs should be met in order to ensure their effective safeguarding. It demonstrates that these children often receive a different level of service to children who are UK citizens, and examines how these gaps in services can be addressed. Chapters cover the identification and age assessment of separated children, accommodation provision, private fostering, mental health, detention and returns, and the role of the guardian. Case studies and best practice points are included throughout the book.

This important book will be essential reading for all those who encounter separated children, including social workers, counsellors, health care professionals and those working in the voluntary sector.

Contributions by: Nadine Finch, Catherine Shaw, Stefan Stoyanov, Savita De De Sousa, Mina Fazel, Hannah Pearce, Ruth Reed, Phil Ishola, Heaven Crawley