Local authorities should focus initial care planning on building the child’s trust in them. Children might have been told not to trust authorities or might have reasons not to trust them (such as an age assessment being carried out by the local authority). 

Once trust is built the social worker can develop an understanding of the asylum claim, where in the process they are, and have conversations about what the possible outcomes could be. Social workers who attend lawyers’ appointments with young people could see how the lawyer explains the process and use this as a reference to start conversations.  

If a young person has been refused asylum, and they become appeals rights exhausted, their social worker or personal adviser should have a good understanding of the reasons for refusal, what needs to be evidenced for a fresh claim, and of any potential barriers to removal.  

Social workers cannot give immigration advice themselves but must ensure the young person receives legal advice before considering ending support or carrying out a human rights assessment see our information on human rights assessments).

With effective triple planning, young people should not be blindsided by what will happen to them and should know that they are supported through the whole process. 

Social workers should be aware that reporting conditions may be placed on young people who have been refused asylum, and of the support they might need with those conditions (see our information sheet on reporting for care leavers).

Social workers should evidence how the child’s future lies in the UK. For example, their hopes and wishes for the future, their communities and friendships in the UK, and academic and other achievements. Records of this information could help in future immigration applications and help inform any potential human rights assessments.   

Local authorities should ensure appropriate immigration applications are made for children and young people whose future they believe lies in the UK. This may include British citizenship applications.