International Journal of Social Welfare
Volume 28, Issue 1, 2019, Pages 53-62

Analysis of care and education pathways of refugee and asylum-seeking children in care in England: Implications for social work (Article) (Open Access)

O'Higgins A.*
  • a Rees Centre, Department of Education, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom

Abstract

There are currently 4,560 refugee and asylum-seeking children in care in England, but little is known about their care histories and educational outcomes. This study analysed the educational outcomes of unaccompanied refugee and asylum-seeking children in care at age 16 (n = 167) in 2013, using secondary data analysis. It compared their care histories and educational experiences with other children in care and those in the general population. Secondly, it used linear regression to determine what factors predict educational outcomes. Refugee and asylum-seeking young people in care faced fewer difficulties than their peers in care or those in need, but they lagged behind children in the general population. Age at entry, placement type, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire scores, school type and mobility predicted attainment. Special educational needs (SEN), number of placements and absences did not. Better care planning and a greater understanding of SEN are required to enhance the well-being of this population. © 2018 The Authors. International Journal of Social Welfare © 2018 Akademikerförbundet SSR (ASSR) and John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Author Keywords

out-of-home-care Asylum seekers Refugees Children

Index Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85050457843&doi=10.1111%2fijsw.12324&partnerID=40&md5=d161e55fb6dedb562d5e0052f99ea70a

DOI: 10.1111/ijsw.12324
ISSN: 13696866
Cited by: 2
Original Language: English