Children in families who are waiting for a decision on their asylum application are suffering, as has been seen at the Resource Center in Strömsund municipality. Therefore, the Resource Center seeks knowledge and research to provide the help they believe the children are entitled to.
Lack of guidance
- When it comes to unaccompanied minors, there was a clear organization and rules around the municipality's responsibilities, says project manager Ylfva Wistrand and continues:
- It's like forgetting children in asylum-seeking families.
After working with asylum-seeking families for several years, the Resource Center contacted the Delegation for Migration Studies, Delmi. It resulted in a book, a knowledge overview, which can be used by municipalities, organisations, authorities and decision-makers.
Worried about what lies ahead
Strömsund municipality and Delmi also invited to a seminar in Stockholm which attracted many.
- The children can be worried about what will happen and it can be difficult for the guardians to support them, says Elisabeth Lindholm, who is the head of the Resource Centre.
How far does the municipality's responsibility for children's health extend?
- We primarily want to see to their best interests in the municipality. Prepare them for what they may face in their home country, says Ylfva Wistrand.