The SNP-led Government is discussing controversial plans for a “reception” centre for the children of asylum seekers.
A leaked paper reveals the option, similar to a facility in Kent, has been discussed with local authorities.
But council chiefs have raised concerns about funding and the prospect of children being trapped in the centres long-term.
A working group, jointly chaired by the Government and council umbrella body COSLA, is looking at how unaccompanied children of asylum seekers should be housed.
A COSLA document outlines the options under consideration, including including: "Setting up a large reception unit (similar to that in Kent), with additional foster placements for under 16 year olds and the most vulnerable”.
Another option is establishing a network of small reception units, or using resources to increase capacity of existing services.
According to the paper, council chiefs are lukewarm about the prospect of a reception centre:
“Concerns related not only to the lack of clear commitment to any funding to establish and run a reception centre, but also concern as to workforce and fostering capacity and the ability to find staff to provide the necessary support to enable the safe management of a centre and the young people.
“There was also concern as to the availability of appropriate buildings, even for the smaller unit model, and broader concerns related to the lack of infrastructure in Scotland to provide services to young people whilst in a centre.”
They also flagged up warnings a reception centre would be on top of commitments to help people from Ukraine and Afghanistan:
“Such work is also taking place in a context of unprecedented pressure on council services and resources, including housing and homelessness services, and social work services, all of which are directly impacted by the humanitarian schemes.”
They added: “The reception centre would also be another temporary move for the young people and therefore could increase the risk that they would remain in centres (whether in Kent or in Scotland) long-term whilst waiting for permanent placements in local authorities.
“There could also be an increased risk of them absconding or refusing to move if they have made connections and found support in a local area.”
Lib Dem Alex Cole-Hamilton said: “This Conservative Government’s approach to the asylum system is immoral, ineffective and incredibly expensive; the SNP should not be looking to mirror it.
“The Scottish Government need to do all they can to ensure that asylum seekers are arriving in safe and humane conditions, and that suitable and fair housing options are provided to those in need.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government has been working with COSLA, Social Work Scotland, third sector partners and the Care Inspectorate to respond to an ask from the UK Government to find suitable accommodation for Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children.
“The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring safety and security for young asylum seekers, in line with GIRFEC principles. We have a moral obligation to offer a place of safety to vulnerable children fleeing to the UK for safety.
“The debates in the Scottish Parliament on 25 April and 27 June highlighted Scottish Ministers’ opposition to the UK Government's Illegal Migration Bill and reinforced that Scotland will always be a welcoming place of safety for asylum seekers and refugees.“
To sign up to the Daily Record Politics newsletter, click here.
