Experiences of integration: accessing resources in a new society: the case of unaccompanied minor asylum seekers in Milton Keynes
Aruni John, Channe Lindstrom, Zuzanna Olszewska, Katharine Williamson, Krista Zongolowicz
This paper describes a project which explored the integration of unaccompanied minor asylum-seekers and refugees (UMAs) in Milton Keynes (MK). It argues that policy and practice concerning UMAs in MK are ill-defined and inconsistent. Institutional resources already in place are not being fully utilised as UMAs are often an after-thought in the service provision for citizen children. UMAs encounter difficulties in accessing education facilities, and living arrangements do not consistently meet protection requirements. As a result, UMAs frequently experience isolation and confusion about their present and future in the UK. Based on these findings, this paper makes recommendations for policy changes at both the local and the national levels.