Nearly 150 children’s organizations have criticized the Government for what they see as a sustained attack on children’s rights. They are calling for a reversal of the proposed measures to use restraints on children during deportations. The groups have expressed outrage at the potential escalation of force permissible against children and have raised concerns that changes in settlement policies could ensnare tens of thousands of young individuals in poverty.
The Government is currently seeking feedback on allowing authorities to handcuff and physically manage children during deportations if they resist. In a joint letter to Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, organizations such as the British Association of Social Workers, Children’s Rights Alliance for England, and The Fostering Network strongly denounced the notion of causing harm to children under the guise of necessity.
In their communication, the 148 groups emphasized their role in supporting children in the UK and highlighted their worries about a perceived assault on children’s rights stemming from recent immigration policies. Rita Waters, National Youth Advocacy Service’s group chief executive, stressed the importance of treating every child equally and safeguarding them from undue harm.
The Home Office has defended its actions, stating that it is necessary to bring the immigration system under control. As part of their strategy to address families with no legal right to reside in the UK, the Home Office is considering forced removals if families do not accept financial incentives to leave. This could involve using handcuffs and physical force as a last resort.
The organizations have appealed to the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to reconsider their approach and implement policies that prioritize the well-being of children who have grown up in the UK. Shabana Mahmood has proposed a set of measures aimed at creating a fairer immigration and asylum system, including temporary refugee status with periodic reviews and an extended time frame for eligibility for indefinite leave to remain.
Concerns have been raised by children’s groups about the potential negative impact on thousands of children and their eligibility for essential benefits due to the proposed changes. They have urged the Government to conduct a child rights impact assessment to assess the repercussions on young individuals. Amina Khanom, director of Reset Communities for Refugees, emphasized the importance of stability and security for children’s futures.
Leyla Williams, Deputy Director of West London Welcome, highlighted the widespread opposition among the public to the deportation and mistreatment of children. A consultation document revealed that a significant portion of failed enforced returns involve disruptions with families, often involving children, at a substantial cost per removal.
The proposal outlines the use of physical force, including handcuffing in severe cases, against children who resist boarding planes or comply with authorities. The Home Office has clarified that officers are expected to use the minimum necessary force and prohibited techniques that cause pain or affect breathing.
A Home Office spokesperson emphasized the need to address the influx of low-skilled migrants and the importance of reforming the immigration system to manage the situation effectively. The Government’s stance is to restore order while working towards reducing child poverty and educational disparities.
Overall, the children’s organizations are advocating for compassionate policies that prioritize the well-being and rights of children, stressing the importance of creating a safe and secure environment for them to thrive.