New research has revealed that unaccompanied child asylum seekers in London face daily hardship and urgently require better protection and support.

In recent years, unaccompanied children have made up about 16% of all looked-after children in London boroughs — more than double the 7% national average for England.

The study, conducted by London Councils in partnership with the Association of London Directors of Children's Services, found that nearly all young asylum seekers struggle with the lengthy and uncertain asylum process, which many described as traumatic.

The government responded by stating it would engage with the issues raised, reaffirming that the "safety and welfare of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children is our utmost priority."

Common challenges and barriers

The study involved conversations with 15 young asylum seekers in London, most of whom reported experiencing delays, confusion, and a lack of clear information about their rights.

Many said the process for assessing their age was "intrusive and retraumatising," and those mistakenly identified as adults were denied access to essential children’s services.

Researchers found that significant barriers prevent young asylum seekers from accessing legal advice and understanding their entitlements.

Calls for urgent reform

In response, London Councils and the Association of London Directors of Children's Services are urging the government to implement several changes:

- Every unaccompanied child should have an independent guardian, funded by the government.

- All young asylum seekers should receive timely, child-focused, expert legal support at no cost.

- Age assessments should only happen when there is clear, serious doubt about a child’s stated age.

- Consistent support should be provided to help young people integrate and feel a sense of belonging.

Anthony Okereke, from London Councils, said: "We know that under the current system, unaccompanied children and young people seeking asylum experience adversity daily in boroughs across London.

"We urgently need reforms that centre the rights, voices, and well-being of these children. From legal support to integration services, boroughs are calling for a compassionate, coordinated approach that helps young people build safe and hopeful futures."

A Home Office spokesperson said: "We thank the London Councils and the Association of London Directors of Children's Services for this research and will engage with them on the issues.

"The safety and welfare of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children is our utmost priority, and caring for them requires participation from local authorities across the UK.

"We ensure that immediate, trauma-informed care is provided for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children upon arrival by small boat, and an advice line, signposting service and face-to-face sessions are available to support children throughout the asylum process." Photo by DFID - UK Department for International Development, Wikimedia commons.