Help shape vital research on the experiences of unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) in Wales

Be part of shaping meaningful change and enhancing support for some of the most underrepresented young people in Wales.

Cardiff University’s Children’s Social Care Research and Development Centre, (CASCADE), is aiming to better understand and improve support for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) in Wales. We are inviting young people aged between 16 to 26 with experience of seeking asylum, as well as charity and local authority staff who support them, to take part in a series of creative and supportive workshops. These sessions will explore how to carry out research in a safe, meaningful, and respectful way, with input from those who know the issues best.

What experience do I need to help?

• Young people with lived experience of arriving in the UK as unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) and currently living in Wales.
• Support workers or charity staff who work directly with UASC, for example organisations and community groups. 

• Local authority professionals with experience supporting UASC through social care or related services.

  You do not need to have taken part in research before. We welcome people with different experiences and backgrounds. Interpreters and trusted charity staff will be available to support participants throughout the workshops. All views and contributions will be respected and valued.

What will I be asked to do?

• Identify key areas of concern or interest for future research
• Share views on how UASC can safely and meaningfully be involved in research
• Explore ways to overcome barriers to taking part in research
• Inform the design of a future research proposal

How long will I be needed for?

Participants will be invited to attend one or more workshops, depending on their availability and interest.

• Young people and charity staff will participate in up to two workshops, each lasting around four hours, including a break.
• Local authority staff will take part in one shorter workshop, lasting around two hours.

Workshops will be held once a month, however, you can still take part even if you’re only able to join one session. No preparation is needed before the workshops, and all sessions will be supported by interpreters and familiar staff from participating charities.

What are some of the benefits for me?

• Have your voice heard – Share your experiences and ideas to help shape research that can improve support for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children in Wales.
• Make a real difference – Your input will help develop a future research project aimed at influencing services, policy and support for young people like you.
• Learn about research – Gain insight into how research is developed and how public voices can help guide meaningful and ethical studies.
• Work with others – Connect with supportive professionals, researchers and others with shared experiences in a safe and respectful space.

 What support is offered?

• Interpreters at each workshop to help with communication, where needed.
• Familiar charity staff experienced in supporting UASC will be present, to help facilitate the workshops.
• A dedicated contact person from the research team who can answer any questions and offer help before, during or after the workshops.
• Creative and flexible activities designed to help everyone take part in a way that suits them – for example, using drawing, photos, objects or group discussion.
• Translated materials, where required, to ensure everyone understands what the project is about and what they are being asked to do.
• Safe and welcoming workshop spaces, with breaks included and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Cover reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs,
• Offer payment for time of £25.00 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits). 

Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this. 

If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement.  

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