Abstract
Background: An unaccompanied minor (UAM) as a child or adolescent under the age of 18, who is separated from both parents and other relatives and is not being cared for by any other adult. ‘Hidden populations’ (undocumented or in transit), in particular the sub-populations of females, LGBTQ+, and disabled people are at particular risk. The number of migrant children globally has increased by nearly 40% in the past 20 years. Data collection on this cohort is complex, due to lack of identity documents and mediums through which migration of UAMs may occur, including child labour, trafficking and asylum claims.
Approach: The aim of this audit was to review the demographics and health outcomes of UAMs attending our inclusion health service. All patients attending our inclusion health services were audited for those classified as unaccompanied minors or disputed minors.
Results; 26 UAMs were referred to our inclusion health clinic, two of whom were re-directed due to age (15 years, 11 months being the upper limit for paediatric health care in Ireland). Of the 24 children reviewed, nine were female (37.5%) and 15 male. The median age of children at time of referral to our service was 14.9 years. Countries of origin were as follows; Afghanistan (ten), Nigerian (five), four Somalia (four), Democratic Republic of Congo (two) and South Africa (one), Palestine (one) and Sierra Leone (one). Four children were referred as disputed minors, all of whom has their status re-classified to UAMs following re-assessment. Nutritional screening (vitamin D, Iron and micronutrient deficiency) was within normal limits for the majority of children, though two children had symptoms of active pulmonary tuberculosis on arrival to the state both whom were immediately referred for appropriate treatment. Four children were documented as have been trafficked to the country, though this is most likely under-reported.
Implications: UAMs represent a highly vulnerable population with significant mental health needs and at risk of serious infectious disease, child trafficking or abuse, child marriage and threats to life.