Decision details

The Committee gave consideration to a report providing an update on the change from a voluntary to mandatory National Transfer Scheme for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children, outlining the implications and risks and providing an overview on the proposed model of care and support for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children transferred to the authority through the National Transfer Scheme.

Decision

The Policy and Resources Committee –

1.    Noted that on 23 November 2021 the UK Government served notice on Councils across the UK of their intention to issue a direction requiring local authorities to participate in the National Transfer Scheme for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC).

2.    Noted the plans to provide appropriate care for UASCs transferred to the authority in a partnership between the HSCP and the Council.

3.    Note the risks outlined in paragraphs 3.14 to 3.21 of the submitted report.

4.    Accepted that the costs of UASCs are funded by the NTS funding package from the Home Office.  However depending on the level of need, funding may not cover all of the support costs, and any such under funding will introduce a cost pressure. 

(Reference:  Report by Executive Director with responsibility for Resettlement dated 30 November 2021, submitted)