Migration status directly affects access to services and opportunities, from education and employment to social benefits and housing support. The project has demonstrated that progress in this area can be achieved by training social workers and educators, who are in the position to advise on the applicable migration requirements and refer children for help.
MAIN STRENGTHS AND KEY CHALLENGES
Increased visibility of the situation of undocumented migrant children One of the project’ s main strengths is its emphasis on supporting undocumented children, who face a lot of difficulties and barriers in accessing services and as a result are extremely vulnerable. This group remains invisible in Ireland’ s migration system, and the project sought to explore the experiences and needs of undocumented migrant children and young people.
Legal aid and legal representation Access to justice includes the right of access to legal information, the right to legal representation and the right to be heard. The Immigrant Council of Ireland’ s legal services helped children and young people to navigate the complex procedures that have a direct impact on their lives.
Provision of child-friendly information Children need to be able to access and understand information on their rights, duties and the procedures affecting their status. This information should be age-appropriate and adapted to their needs. The project distributed child-friendly information leaflets explaining the steps to be taken by children and young people to secure their migration status, the procedure for applying for Irish citizenship as well as situations in which to seek legal advice.
Advocacy for the rights of undocumented children Another key element of the project was its emphasis on advocacy. The report produced as part of the project highlights the need for policies and laws addressing the situation of undocumented migrants and explores the personal experiences of migrant children and young people. A national conference on child migration was held to disseminate the findings and recommendations.
Capacity building for child protection workers Since most university degrees undertaken by social workers do not cover migration law, many have little knowledge of migration requirements and therefore are not able to assist children in such matters and refer them to the relevant authorities and services. The
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