Hundreds of children affected by UK's halting of refugee family reunion, says Red Cross

"Hundreds of children every month face being separated from their families since the UK suspended refugee family reunion last September, according to analysis by the British Red Cross. Based on examination of Home Office data of family reunion grants previously made, the charity estimates between 550 and 1,360 children could remain separated from their families for every month that refugee family reunion suspension continues. Of these, between 180 and 430 each month are likely to be unaccompanied minors."

"The data has emerged days after a high court challenge to the suspension, which was heard last week. The case against the Home Office was brought by several refugees who have family members stranded in dangerous parts of the world because of the suspension, along with the charity Safe Passage. The court heard that last year, the then home secretary, Yvette Cooper, wanted to announce a tough new policy on refugees as part of the government's push to stop small boats crossing the Channel."

"Ministers were looking for evidence to strengthen the argument that the arrival of refugee families was placing too heavy a burden on local authorities. In fact, internal government documents disclosed as part of the case warned that the options presented could actually encourage small boat journeys. A written submission to the court on behalf of the home secretary states that the arrival of an increasing number of refugee families imposes a significant burden on the scarce resources of local authorities. It adds: The suspension was therefore an entirely reasonable and rational response to the ongoing impact on public resources."

"Since the suspension began, the British Red Cross has been contacted by 1,160 families left separated. Those they are supporting include women and children left in dangerous situations. Raza Husain KC, for two of the refugees challenging the suspension of the policy, described the decision to suspend it as chaotic and rushed. Only four days' notice was given b"

The UK suspended refugee family reunion, and analysis based on Home Office data estimates that 550 to 1,360 children could remain separated from their families for each month the suspension continues. Between 180 and 430 of those children are likely to be unaccompanied minors. The figures follow a high court challenge to the suspension brought by refugees with family members stranded in dangerous locations and by Safe Passage. The court heard that the suspension was sought as part of a broader government effort to deter small boat crossings, including claims about burdens on local authorities. Internal government documents warned that policy options could encourage small boat journeys. The British Red Cross reported contact from 1,160 families left separated since the suspension began.

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