Perth and Kinross Council is looking for residents who would be willing to act as host families for young unaccompanied asylum seekers.
The majority of the young people arriving as asylum seekers are 16 or 17 years old, may have travelled for many months before arriving in the UK and may have experienced very difficult and traumatic living circumstances.
Many have spent time in refugee camps, been separated from their families, been victims of human trafficking and suffered from physical and sexual abuse.
They also face uncertainty about their future life in the United Kingdom while their immigration status and right to remain are determined.
It is during this period that PKC is asking local people to offer them “safe and supportive environments” to help them prepare to lead independent lives.
An allowance will be provided to families to assist with living expenses.
A PKC spokesperson said: “Potential carers for young unaccompanied asylum seekers in Perth and Kinross can be married, single or in a partnership.
“Carers must have a spare room available (and permission from their housing provider if living in rented accommodation) and be ready to work in partnership with other professionals to provide support.
“Relevant experience or skills in caring for young people would also be very helpful.
“Enquiries will be welcomed from all ethnic groups and cultures.
“Young people will live with their host families until they are able to move on to independent living, which can be a period of time between six and 12 months.
“Potential host families will go through a detailed assessment to ensure they are best placed to meet the needs of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and once confirmed will go through training.
“Carers will receive ongoing support alongside the young person they are caring for.
“ Perth and Kinross Council will pay host families an allowance to assist with living expenses whilst the young person will receive financial support themselves.”
To register interest in becoming a host family, call Sarah from the council’s Throughcare and Aftercare Team on 01738 783466 or email supportedlodgings@pkc.gov.uk
