UK Immigration required to consider children's welfare

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Under Section 55 of the Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 which comes into force on 2 November 2009 UK immigration is required to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. The Home Secretary must make arrangements to ensure the welfare of children when carrying out immigration, asylum nationality and customs functions. The Director of Border Revenue is also required to do the same when carrying out the Director's functions.

UKBA is now in the same situation as a number of other organizations that work with children. The Government expects that this will improve inter-agency cooperation to make sure that children are kept safe and given the opportunity to thrive. UKBA will also be required to participate more with children boards.

UKBA staff will receive training on how to safeguard and promote the welfare of children while carrying out their duties.