Nearly 150 children’s organizations have accused the Government of launching a sustained assault on children’s rights and called for a reversal of plans to use handcuffs on children during deportations. The groups labeled the proposed increase in force on children as “abhorrent” and cautioned that alterations to settlement regulations could ensnare tens of thousands of children in poverty.
Under the current consultation, the Government is considering permitting officers to handcuff and physically manage children onto removal flights if they resist. A coalition of 148 organizations, including the British Association of Social Workers, Children’s Rights Alliance for England, and The Fostering Network, expressed their opposition in a letter to Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, denouncing the idea of causing harm to children as “abhorrent.”
Rita Waters, the group chief executive of the National Youth Advocacy Service, emphasized the importance of treating every child as equally deserving of protection and highlighted the potential consequences of such harsh measures on children’s well-being.
In response to the criticism, the Home Office defended its actions, stating that it is necessary to bring the immigration system under control. The consultation initiated in March aims to facilitate the removal of families without legal rights in the UK.
Ms. Mahmood outlined a series of proposed measures to enhance the fairness of the immigration and asylum system, including making refugee status temporary and extending the time required for migrants to be eligible for indefinite leave to remain. However, children’s organizations argue that these changes may negatively impact tens of thousands of children, potentially leading to prolonged poverty and exclusion from benefits.
The groups have urged the Government to conduct a child rights impact assessment to evaluate the repercussions on young individuals. Amina Khanom from Reset Communities for Refugees emphasized the importance of stability and security for children’s future and advocated for policies that prioritize the well-being of children.
Leyla Williams from West London Welcome echoed the sentiment, stating that the majority of people in the country oppose the deportation, handcuffing, and use of force against children.
A consultation document revealed that a significant portion of failed enforced returns involve disruption with families, often including children, resulting in substantial costs. The proposal emphasizes the need for officers to use the minimum level of physical contact required and prohibits techniques that cause pain or affect breathing.
The Home Office reiterated its commitment to addressing migration challenges and emphasized the importance of maintaining order while striving to reduce child poverty and educational disparities.
