This article discusses the dilemma that social workers face in deciding whether or not to join the National Age Assessment Board (NAAB), a new Home Office agency responsible for assessing the ages of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. The British Association of Social Workers (BASW) has raised concerns about NAAB’s independence, transparency, and impact on child welfare. At the same time, NAAB has emphasized its commitment to child-centred and trauma-informed assessments. The complete statement by BASW can be found in its recently launched Age Assessment: BASW Practical Guidance here. The advert by NAAB for the recruitment of social workers can be located here
BASW is concerned that NAAB’s operation under the Home Office, which is responsible for immigration enforcement, could lead to political priorities influencing professional decisions. Additionally, BASW argues that NAAB’s involvement implies a view of age assessment as an immigration control mechanism rather than an approach rooted in child welfare. Finally, BASW believes that age assessments are more effective when social workers access localized information from other professionals, which might be challenging under a UK-wide agency like NAAB.
NAAB has emphasized its commitment to child welfare and collaboration. It has put a lot of information and detail on the government website about its structure, decision-making, and cooperation, and it hopes to enhance expertise in age assessments by providing high-quality training to local authorities.
Social workers are caught in a dilemma regarding whether or not to join NAAB. On the one hand, they want to do what is best for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. On the other hand, they are concerned about BASW’s concerns about NAAB.
Based on the concerns above, it can be construed that if social workers choose to join NAAB, it could have several potential implications for their practice and professionalism. On the one hand, they could have access to specialized training and resources that would help them to conduct more accurate and effective age assessments. On the other hand, they could be seen as being complicit in a system that they believe is not in the best interests of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children.
There are a number of factors that social workers should consider when making the decision of whether or not to join NAAB. These include:
Interviewing experienced social workers who are members of both BASW and work for NAAB could provide valuable insights into the different perspectives on this issue. Social workers from NAAB could share their experiences working for the agency and their views on its commitment to child welfare, though highly unlikely given they are civil servants.
The author, a member of BASW, offers her perspective on the wider debate due to her involvement with pre-NAAB as an independent social worker in the pilot team of the National Community Age Assessment Team.
BASW has expressed concerns about NAAB’s proximity to the Home Office, raising questions about potential political influence on age assessments. This concern is particularly relevant given the Home Office’s role in immigration enforcement.
The author acknowledges the potential for political influence given NAAB’s relationship with the Home Office. However, the author also emphasizes the importance of existing checks and balances, such as the ability to challenge age assessments through judicial review. Additionally, the author argues that NAAB’s commitment to child welfare is evident in its use of a child-centred approach and its emphasis on trauma-informed practice.
BASW has discouraged social workers from seeking employment with NAAB, possibly due to concerns about its proximity to the Home Office.
The author argues that joining NAAB offers social workers a unique opportunity to acquire extensive expertise in age assessments, a specialization that significantly contributes to the pool of experts in this field. This specialized experience can be likened to the role of Independent Reviewing Officers in local authorities, who, despite their employment within the organization, maintain an independent stance in their decision-making processes. The author also emphasizes the importance of considering the potential benefits of working for NAAB, such as the opportunity to collaborate with other experienced professionals and to gain valuable insights into the latest research and best practices in age assessment.
BASW emphasizes the importance of keeping age assessments separate from immigration enforcement to prevent potential political interference.
The author agrees that it is essential to keep age assessments separate from immigration enforcement. However, the author also argues that NAAB’s commitment to child welfare and its adherence to specific rules and laws governing age assessments help to mitigate the risk of political interference. Additionally, the author emphasizes the importance of social workers exercising their professional judgment and advocating for the best interests of the children they serve, regardless of the organizational context in which they work.
BASW expresses concerns about the impact of NAAB on the fair judgment of social workers.
The author draws on their experience as an Independent Reviewing Officer in a local authority to argue that concerns regarding professional fairness within NAAB may not be substantiated. In their previous role, the author maintained their independence in judgment despite being employed by the organization. Similarly, social workers employed by NAAB should be able to uphold their professional integrity and impartiality, regardless of the organizational structure.
BASW expresses concerns that age assessments under the Home Office might shift the focus toward immigration control at the expense of child welfare.
The author emphasizes the importance of maintaining a child-centric approach in all age assessments, regardless of the overseeing body. The author also underscores the importance of clear guidelines that distinguish between age assessments and needs assessments. Age assessments should focus on determining the chronological age of an individual, while needs assessments should focus on identifying and addressing the individual’s needs, regardless of their age.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to join NAAB is a personal one that each social worker must make for themselves. However, by carefully considering the author’s perspective and their own personal and professional values, social workers can make informed decisions that are aligned with their best interests and the best interests of the children they serve.
In a world where social justice and human rights are increasingly under threat, the BASW vs. NAAB debate over age assessments for asylum seekers is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and advocacy. It is a call to action for social workers everywhere to stand firm in their commitment to upholding the core principles of the profession, namely impartiality, objectivity, and the pursuit of the best interests of the child.
To the social workers who are contemplating joining NAAB, we urge you to carefully consider the implications of your decision, weighing the potential benefits against the ethical concerns raised by BASW who have been consistent in advocating for the independence and integrity of the age assessment process, and to speak out against any instances of perceived political interference.As NAAB evolves and practices continue to develop, let us remain committed to safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable populations. Let us work to create a system of age assessment that is truly just and equitable.
Collectively, we must ensure that the voices of the most marginalized are heard and that their rights are protected. We must hold ourselves and our institutions accountable to the highest ethical standards. In doing so, we can help to create a more just and equitable world for all.
Author: Elizabeth Green, EG Age Assessments Consultancy.
More about the author
Elizabeth Green is a dedicated advocate in the field of age assessments, committed to safeguarding the rights of unaccompanied asylum seekers. Her journey began with the groundbreaking National Age Assessment Community Team project initiated by the Home Office. With extensive experience and qualifications as a social worker, Ms. Green emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in age assessments.
**Passionate Advocacy**: Ms. Green, a co-founder of an age assessment consultancy, has made this her life’s mission. She firmly believes that age assessments are crucial tools for protecting unaccompanied asylum seekers, even as new scientific methods are introduced. She does, however, express concerns about potential issues with accuracy and the role of social workers in the process.
**Empowering Others**: Beyond her consultancy work, Ms. Green actively contributes to the discourse on age assessments through speaking engagements, writing, and offering free webinars. She’s dedicated to providing accredited training for social workers and key personnel involved in the care of asylum seekers, ensuring a broader understanding of this vital issue.
**Personal Perspective**: Ms. Green acknowledges the subjectivity of her experience with age assessments but emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives. Her work goes beyond profession; it’s a deeply personal calling.
**Shaping the Future**: Ms. Green’s passionate advocacy is driving change in the field of age assessments. Testimonials from those who have worked with her highlight the positive impact of her efforts.
**Take Action**: Reflect on Ms. Green’s work and consider taking action. Support organizations working for the rights of unaccompanied asylum seekers, engage in discussions, and stay informed about developments in this crucial field.
The journey toward fair and accurate age assessments and the protection of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children is ongoing. Let’s unite to ensure that no vulnerable individual is left behind, especially those seeking refuge in our midst.
