You arrived alone — here are your rights
You are an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child (UASC). As soon as you tell the authorities you are alone, the council must take you into care. You will get accommodation, a social worker, medical care and a school place. This is the law — Children Act 1989 Section 20.
- Tell the police or council: «I am a child. I am alone. I need help.»
- Do not sign anything without an appropriate adult present
- If they say you are an adult — call Coram CLC immediately on 020 7636 8505
- The council must give you accommodation the same night — this is Children Act s.20
Looked-After Child — what this gives you
Foster care or supported accommodation — on the same day. This is not optional.
Appointed immediately — this is your key person. Ask for their contact details.
Within 20 working days of placement — doctor, dentist, mental health.
Within 10 days of starting school — plan for learning, support, goals.
Managed by the council's Virtual School Head through the PEP. Goes to the school for your support.
A specific teacher responsible for you — contact them if you have problems.
For your asylum application — completely free.
They tell you that you are an adult — what to do
According to Home Office 2026 data: around 42% of assessments by the National Age Assessment Board (NAAB) that initially classified someone as an adult are overturned on review. This means: the initial assessment at the border is very often wrong — challenge it.
- Two qualified social workers — not one
- Trauma-informed approach — takes into account trauma and uncertainty when answering
- Appropriate adult present — do not be left alone for the interview
- Multi-source: documents, interview, appearance — all together
- R (B) v Merton LBC [2003] EWHC 1689 — the standard for assessment
The Immigration (Age Assessments) Regulations 2024 (in force from 10 January 2024) allow the use of bone X-rays. You can refuse — refusal does not prove you are an adult. It is taken into account but is not the sole basis. Speak to Coram CLC (020 7636 8505) before undergoing any X-ray.
Care Leaver — rights after 18
Support as a UASC may stop at 18 without status. Immediately contact Refugee Council (020 7346 6700) or Coram CLC (020 7636 8505). Legal Aid is available — this is an urgent situation.
How much the council receives for your placement
The council receives from the government the LA UASC grant: £143/night for UASC under 16; £270/night for UASC aged 16–17 (2024-25). This means the council has resources. If the quality of accommodation or support is unsatisfactory — contact Refugee Council (020 7346 6700).
Frequently asked questions
What happens when a child arrives alone?
UASC automatically becomes looked-after child (LAC) under s.20. Council: social worker, accommodation (foster care), Health Assessment 20 days, Education Plan 10 days.
What if the Home Office says I am an adult?
Demand a Merton-compliant age assessment. Coram CLC 020 7636 8505. According to Home Office 2026 data: around 42% of NAAB assessments that initially classified someone as an adult are overturned on review.
What is Pupil Premium Plus and how do I get it?
PP+ £2,690/year for looked-after children — through the Personal Education Plan. The Designated Teacher at school coordinates it.
What happens when I turn 18?
With status: care-leaver package + UC. Without status: support may stop — you urgently need a lawyer. Payments: housing minimum £3,000, HE Bursary £2,000.
What accommodation does the council provide?
Foster care or supported/semi-independent accommodation. Standard: same as for any looked-after child. If accommodation is unsuitable — contact Coram CLC or Refugee Council Children's.