| answer text |
<p><del class="ministerial">It has not proved possible to respond to the hon. Member
in the time available before Prorogation.</del></p><p> </p><p><ins class="ministerial">Existing
contractors based onsite carried out the work. There was no cost to the taxpayer.</ins></p><p><ins
class="ministerial"> </ins></p><p><ins class="ministerial">Whilst the murals have
been removed, other features at the facility include larger and softer interview rooms,
an outside space, prayer rooms, a larger reception area and improved security measures
to ensure the safety of those on site. The KIU is a bespoke building that was opened
in 2022 designed to meet the needs of unaccompanied minors, with increased capacity
allowing more children to be seen and their requirements identified as swiftly as
possible.</ins></p><p><ins class="ministerial"> </ins></p><p><ins class="ministerial">It
should be noted that very few under-13s pass through the Kent Intake Unit and these
children are prioritised to be moved to Kent County Council care at the earliest opportunity.
The overwhelming majority of unaccompanied children who passed through the location
last year were largely teenagers. The Home Office has worked closely with Local Authorities,
including increase funding, to expedite the transfer time so that unaccompanied minors
reach local authorities as soon as possible. </ins></p>
|
|
