Still at risk

Increased understanding of the magnitude of child trafficking in the UK, and continued concerns about trafficked children going missing from care have prompted a review into the support available to young victims of human trafficking. To look at the current situation within the care and safeguarding systems, and to explore options to improve service responses for trafficked children in England, the Home Office commissioned the Refugee Council and The Children’s Society to conduct a review of the practical care arrangements for trafficked children. The study consisted of in-depth interviews with 17 young people who were trafficked as children and had escaped; interviews with 18 professionals who work directly or indirectly with children who have been trafficked including from statutory and non-statutory agencies; an online survey completed by 52 local authorities in England; and a review of existing literature. The study was designed to: • explore the experiences of children who had been trafficked and were being cared for and supported by a local authority • look at agency responses to child trafficking in the context of best practice guidance in child protection and safeguarding • assess the multi-agency responses to supporting trafficked children • identify good practice and areas for improvement or change