DESTITUTION

Early day motion 2762, tabled 23 February 2012 by Tom Brake (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 28 members.

That this House commends The Children's Society's report I Don't Feel Human for drawing attention to the plight of refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant children and young people who are destitute; recognises that some children in the UK go without essentials like food, clothing and medicines or are made homeless; deplores the danger, violence and abuse that some young people experience while destitute; further recognises the significant impact being destitute has on children's health and well-being as well as their sense of self-worth, dignity and hope for the future; acknowledges the increasing number of children and young people who are experiencing periods of destitution; calls on the Government to stop the use of destitution as a means to compel children to leave the UK; and urges the Government to recognise destitution as a priority child protection issue so that children are given the support and protection they need.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, Liberal Democrat 7, DUP 4, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Alliance 1, Independent 1.