Separated Children in Europe Programme
The Separated Children in Europe Programme has developed the following vision to drive forward its work:
The rights of all separated children entering or travelling across Europe will be realised; they will be protected, their well-being and development will be promoted; they will have opportunities to develop their full potential and they will participate in a meaningful way in the development of policies and practices that impact upon their lives.
We believe that every separated child in Europe should:
- Feel safe, secure and loved.
- Have a responsible, trained and independent guardian to whom they may turn.
- Receive accurate advice, appropriate guidance and support throughout their time in the country of destination.
- Be seen as a child first and foremost rather than simply a migrant (or criminal) subject to administrative and immigration control.
- Be seen as a unique individual.
- Be listened to with respect and be involved in the design of procedures and services addressing their needs.
- Have their experiences acknowledged and validated.
- Have opportunities to achieve their full potential.
- Have their rights protected and realized.
- Have all their needs – social, emotional and developmental – addressed in relation to each other and not in isolation.