Disturbing new research has uncovered a systemic failure within UK family courts, where judges and social workers are routinely making critical decisions about migrant children's futures without considering their immigration status. The comprehensive study from Loughborough University reveals how this oversight is creating a 'cliff edge' for vulnerable young people.
The Hidden Crisis in Family Courts
Academic experts have sounded the alarm after discovering that family court professionals frequently treat cases involving migrant children the same as those involving British children, despite the dramatically different consequences these young people face. The research, which examined numerous cases across England, found that immigration matters were often treated as separate issues rather than integral to the child's wellbeing.
Consequences of Judicial Blindness
When a migrant child in care turns 18, they face immediate immigration control and potential removal from the UK, unlike their British counterparts who receive ongoing support until age 25. This creates what researchers describe as a 'devastating transition' that leaves these young people particularly vulnerable.
Dr. Kiril Sharapov, the study's lead author, emphasised the gravity of the situation: "The failure to consider immigration status means these children are being set up for failure. They're being prepared for a future that doesn't account for the legal barriers they'll face upon reaching adulthood."
Systemic Failures and Missed Opportunities
The research identified several critical problems:
- Social workers and judges lacking training in immigration law
- No routine data collection on children's immigration status
- Fragmented communication between family courts and immigration authorities
- Inadequate long-term planning for migrant children in care
Call for Urgent Reform
Researchers are demanding immediate action, including better training for family court professionals, improved data sharing between government departments, and specific guidance for handling cases involving migrant children. The study argues that considering immigration status is essential for making decisions that truly serve the child's best interests.
The findings present a stark challenge to the government's commitment to protecting vulnerable children, raising serious questions about whether the current system is equipped to handle the complexities of modern family cases involving immigration issues.
