Advocacy pilot programme for separated children launched
Separated children seeking asylum in Ireland will be provided with a mentor under the Irish Refugee Council’s (IRC) new independent advocacy pilot programme launched on 5 July.
Under the new scheme, mentors will not only assist separated children throughout the asylum process, but will also support them with their transition into Irish culture and society.
Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Frances Fitzgerald formally launched the Independent Advocacy Pilot and spoke about her confidence in the benefit of the program to separated children.
“These children are alone and frightened, needing our care,” said the minister. “[Advocates] will ensure that children are aware of their rights and entitlements.
“I have no doubt that [the programme] will make a real difference to the lives of individuals.”
Samantha Arnold, children’s and young persons’ officer with the IRC, highlighted recent research that “has underlined the importance of one reliable adult figure in a young person’s development.
“This project provides separated children with support and structure from a responsible, trusted adult who will guide them through what is a very lengthy and complicated process and help them adapt to their new communities.”
Although the advocates provide the separated children with information about legal issues surrounding the asylum process, their role as a mentor extends beyond providing formal advice and assistance.
Sarah Barriscale, 23, is one of the six advocates across four counties in the pilot programme. She meets the separated child she mentors once a week for one or two hours to engage in activities they both enjoy, including swimming, bowling and craft classes.
Since she became an advocate, she said she has noticed a growth in her own self-confidence.
“I just think it’s a completely new perspective,” said Barriscale. “Just to see someone happy over winning a bowling game. It’s the small things.”
