Separated Children Seeking International Protection (SCSIP)
YAP Ireland have several programmes which provide support to Separated Children Seeking International Protection.
Eligibility Assessments – we provide independent advocacy to young people where the social worker deems that age is a consideration in the assessment of eligibility for Tusla services. The Independent Advocate supports the young person in understanding the assessment process, linking with appropriate legal and refugee services as well as practical support such as food and clothing etc. The service commenced in April 2023, and over the course of the year, we worked with 39 young people, providing support through more than 100 individual consultation sessions.
Integration Support – in January 2024, YAP Ireland launched a new 3-month programme in partnership with Tusla to provide integration support for Separated Children Seeking International Protection and Ukrainian Minors to;
• Improve their experience of integration into Irish life
• Improve social inclusion
• Improve access to education
• Improve health and wellbeing
Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children Transportation Service – we provide specialist transportation these young people, to and from assessments and or residential placements. YAP Ireland rely on the expertise of our Advocates to transport the young people. The Advocates help young people during the journey by using a trauma informed approach to practice, helping to reduce anxiety and make the young person feel safe. In 2023, YAP Ireland supported more than 370 young people with these journeys, which often occur in the evening and over the weekend.