Council looking for support for asylum-seeking children in Angus

In common with other local authorities, the council has a responsibility to help meet the needs of unaccompanied children who are arriving daily in the UK, and is looking for people willing to provided supported lodging for them.

The majority of the young people are 16 or 17 years old, who may have travelled for many months before arriving in the UK.

A council spokesperson pointed out that some of the young people may have also experienced difficult and traumatic living circumstances including time in refugee camps, separation from their families, being victims of human trafficking, physical and sexual abuse and their basic needs generally not being met.

The spokesperson added: “Many of them also face uncertainty about their future life in the UK while their immigration status and right to remain are determined.

"These young people need safe and supportive environments that living in supported lodgings can bring to help them prepare to lead independent lives.”

The council is looking for people – married, single or in a partnership and from any cultural background – who have a spare room available, and permission from their housing provider if living in rented accommodation; who can provide approximately 20-25 hours of support per week and have relevant experience or skills in caring for young people, although this is not essential.

Young people will live with their supported lodgings provider until they are able to move on to independent living, which can be between six and 18 months.

Approval as a supported lodgings provider will involve an assessment which includes safer caring checks.

Once approved, there will be an opportunity to attend relevant training and be allocated a social worker who will provide advice and guidance.

The council will also pay a weekly fee to supported lodgings providers to assist with day-to-day living costs, while the young person will receive financial support themselves.

To find out about providing supported lodgings, email [email protected] or telephone 01241 464646 and ask to speak to the duty social worker.