Barnardo's responds to the Government’s Illegal Migration Bill

Barnardo’s CEO, Lynn Perry MBE, said: 

“Barnardo’s has a long history of supporting children who need us the most. This includes those seeking sanctuary in the UK who have suffered trauma, exploitation and trafficking before they arrive here. We are deeply concerned that the Illegal Migration Bill could deny these children the help and protection they desperately need. 

“This Bill has serious implications for the safety and protection of children. In its current form, it would deny children the chance to put forward their case for asylum in the UK, as well as disqualifying some groups of children who have been identified as victims of trafficking from receiving protection and support. In 2014, the Government rightly banned the detention of children for longer than 24 hours and it’s deeply concerning that this Bill would reverse that important decision, by allowing children arriving alone or with their families to be detained for longer periods.  

“We urge the Government to work closely with us and other partners to ensure all children who seek refuge in the UK are welcomed and protected from harm. Barnardo’s has written to the Home Secretary and Minister of State for Immigration, alongside other children’s charities, outlining our concerns, and we await their response.”