UNICEF UK and Refugee Education UK, have undertaken research into the experiences of early childhood education and care (ECEC) for refugee and asylum seeker families in England.
The research uncovers multiple challenges for refugee and asylum-seeking babies and young children, including barriers to accessing ECEC settings, to learning at home, and to accessing adequate nutrition and support for their physical development. It shows the precarity, hardship and insecurity facing refugee and asylum-seeking families, and the extent to which many young children are having their early childhood development put at risk.
Yet the research also highlights the value of quality ECEC for these families. When it’s accessible, trauma-informed and contextual, ECEC provision has transformative potential for refugee and asylum-seeking children and their parents. The research highlights promising practice from local authorities and the voluntary sector, and makes evidence-based recommendations to national and local Government.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
The Introduction outlines the research, explains the terminology and scope and highlights the gaps in existing research.
The Background and Context section provides a statistical snapshot of the forced displacement context in the UK, including for children, and an overview of relevant policy in England.
The Methodology section describes the methods underpinning the primary research with parents and key informants and the questions addressed.
The Research Findings section analyses data from the qualitative primary research with parents and key informants.
The Reflections and Conclusions section discusses key and pertinent research themes and their relevance in the current context.
The Recommendations section identifies a range of evidence-based recommendations to national and local Government and researchers.
The Evidence Review examines existing literature on the benefits of ECEC for refugee and asylum seeking children, as well as the reality of accessing these services. It highlights the significant data and evidence gaps.
