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Unaccompanied asylum-seeking children

If you are an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child (UASC), we will support you with language barriers by using interpreters.

You will also receive:

  • extra education‑related support, for example attending college to learn and improve your English
  • specialist legal advice to guide you through your asylum claim, including help with forms and documents

You cannot get a job or claim benefits while your asylum claim is being processed, so you’ll receive financial support with a weekly allowance from us.

We will also provide you accommodation and cover your utility bills, until you receive leave to remain (LTR).

Your Pathway Plan

We know this uncertainty can be stressful. You’re not alone - you can talk to your personal advisor (PA) anytime you need extra support. 

They will plan for three possible outcomes in your Pathway Plan to prepare you for all eventualities.

1. Waiting for a decision about your leave to remain

While you are waiting for a decision to be confirmed about your leave to remain, you will be eligible for health, education and BCP Council support accommodation/finance (weekly allowance).

2. Leave to remain - accepted

If you receive a positive outcome to your application, your needs will be met.

This means:

  • you will be eligible to apply for jobs, housing and or Universal Credit
  • your Personal Allowance and rent payment by BCP Council will end
  • we will capture your life skills, any future goals and aspirations you may have and support you to build a positive life in the UK

3. Leave to remain - refused

If your leave to remain application is refused, it means the Home Office has not agreed for you to stay in the UK.

An Appeals Rights Exhausted (ARE) process is the next stage and if it is confirmed that you are (ARE) then a Human Rights Assessment will take place to assess whether you will be left without a place to live, money or basic support.

At this stage, Home Office section 4 support will be explored to return you to your home country, as this will be the only support available if leave to remain is refused.