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<p>Our family reunion policy allows immediate family members of those granted protection
here to reunite with them. The Immigration Rules also provide for relatives with protection
in the UK to sponsor children in serious and</p><p>compelling circumstances and the
Mandate resettlement scheme allows those recognised by the UNCHR as refugees to join
close family members here in the UK.</p><p> </p><p>In addition, there is provision
in the policy to grant visas outside the Rules in exceptional circumstances, which
caters for family members who otherwise do not qualify under the Rules.</p><p> </p><p>However,
there is no provision in the Rules for children with refugee status in the UK to sponsor
family members to join them. We believe this would create additional motives for more
children to be encouraged, or even forced, to leave their family, and risk hazardous
journeys hoping to sponsor relatives later. This would play into the hands of criminal
gangs who exploit vulnerable people, and goes against our wider safeguarding responsibilities.
The best interests of children are reflected in remaining with their families, claiming</p><p>asylum
in the first safe country they reach – that is the fastest route to safety – and relying
on resettlement schemes to travel safely.</p>
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