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<p>We do not currently have any findings to share relating to the Scottish Guardianship
Model.</p><p>However, this Government takes its responsibility for the welfare of
migrant children very seriously. We have comprehensive statutory and policy safeguards
in place for caring for and safeguarding unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC).</p><p>Social
workers and the courts are best placed to make decisions for vulnerable children,
in consideration of all the factors involved in often complex cases. Children should
be cared for in a way that recognises and respects their identity and carers should
be given the training and support they need to meet the child’s needs.</p><p>Local
authorities are responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children
in their area, including their mental health and emotional wellbeing needs, regardless
of their immigration status. Independent Child Trafficking Guardians (ICTGs) are provided
in addition to this statutory support and are an additional source of advice and support
for potentially trafficked children, irrespective of nationality, and somebody who
can advocate on their behalf.</p><p> </p><p>Unaccompanied asylum-seeking children
can access legal advice from qualified legal representatives and, in England, independent
advice and assistance on the asylum process and in their interactions with government
agencies is available from the Refugee Council’s Independent Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking
Children Support Service (IUSS).</p>
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