Refugee Council - My View

"The Refugee Council receives direct referrals from the Home Office each time a looked after unaccompanied minor who is seeking asylum. The Refugee Council’s Children’s Panel provides advice and support to separated (unaccompanied) children and young people seeking asylum. The Children’s Panel is funded by the Home Office but we are a fully independent organisation and provide independent advice. The Children's Advisor, can offer; Advice about the asylum process and related matters to separated children and professionals involved. All Children’s Advisors are registered with the OISC (Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner) at Level 1. Advocacy for the young person in the form of acting as appropriate/responsible adult during meetings and interviews (e.g LAC reviews, Home office interviews, age assessments). Referrals to other services (e.g immigrations/welfare solicitors, Red Cross family tracing, social clubs). A means of linking up different professionals involved in the care and support of separated asylum seeking children and young people."