There are many misconceptions about young refugees and asylum seekers in Britain. Declan Henry dispels the myths and gives a compassionate and empathetic view of the daily struggles they face including discrimination, racism and poverty.

This book explores the reasons why they came to the UK and the safeguarding issues involved, the services they receive and the gaps and inequalities in the system as a whole. The injustice of long Home Office delays in the processing of applications and appeal processes are outlined and, as it is becoming more difficult for many young people to get Leave to Remain, the impact on their lives in terms of accommodation, education and planning for the future are explored. The author also looks at the emotional and mental health needs of young people including those with undiagnosed learning needs and difficulties.

Ultimately, the book paints a graphic picture of what life is like in Britain for young people - cut off from their country of their origin and families - and how they are expected to make a new life in Britain with limited resources.

There are works of non-fiction that are not only timely but also extremely important. Young Refugees And Asylum Seekers by author Declan Henry is one of them. The refugee crisis, and the plight of children and young adults, is brought into sharp focus in this powerful, challenging and well-written book. With precision, this author highlights both the lack of resources and unfair treatment of those who enter a new country without a caregiver as well as the monumental efforts of good people who work within a challenging system to exact change while practicing kindness. The importance of seeing children as children first is at the core of this valuable book. And we are reminded that the way we treat the most vulnerable is a testament to who we are, fundamentally, as human beings and a society. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to better understand the refugee crisis and to those in search of an opportunity to make a difference.

Nancy Richardson Fischer, author of When Elephants Fly, The Speed of Falling Objects

About the Author

Declan Henry holds a BA (Hons) in Education and Community Studies and a MSc in Mental Health Social Work. Declan has worked extensively with young asylum seekers and refugees and has a wealth of experience in social work. He is the author of six books and numerous published articles.

Reviews

This is the true story of Britain's refugees: their humiliation, ill-treatment, demonisation and suffering - but also their courage, ingenuity, determination, setbacks and triumphs.

It shows why the harsh, cruel reality of Britain's failed asylum system must be reformed.

-- Peter Tatchell, human rights campaigner

There are works of non-fiction that are not only timely but also extremely important. Young Refugees And Asylum Seekers by author Declan Henry is one of them. The refugee crisis, and the plight of children and young adults, is brought into sharp focus in this powerful, challenging and well-written book....

-- Nancy Richardson Fischer, author of When Elephants Fly, The Speed of Falling Objects

...I would recommend this book for all staff, and volunteers, including our hosts, involved with our charity, Refugees at Home, and others like ours. The chapter on asylum pitfalls in particular will answer many of the questions appearing on a day to day basis. The definition of trauma and the description of various treatments available will be very helpful for those looking after guests. The book gives an insight into the difficulties of young asylum seekers and refugees, from separation and isolation from their families, to the emotional difficulties they may endure....

-- Marion Kafetz, Trustee Refugees at Home

...The book will appeal to a very wide readership including those professions which are likely to come into contact with many of these children and young adults in the course of their work. A great read then for the legal profession, Social Workers, Youth Workers, Police officers, Prison Officers, the Probation Service, NHS staff, and indeed those of us who want a real and better understanding on what it is like to be a "Young Refugee and Asylum Seeker" living here in Britain. I think the reader, having read this book, would be hard pressed not to have some real and genuine empathy for their plight and suffering. I commend the author greatly, It is a really superb read!

-- Richard O'Brien * The Irish Community News *



Book Information
ISBN 9781913063979
Author Declan Henry
Format Paperback
Page Count 202
Imprint Critical Publishing Ltd
Publisher Critical Publishing Ltd
Weight(grams) 311g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 156mm * 11mm