STANDARD 15: Ensure that special needs are taken into account when (re-)allocating a particular housing to unaccompanied children.

Indicator 15.1: The allocation of particular housing to unaccompanied children is based on an assessment of their special reception needs.

• Additional remarks: In particular, the allocation of housing to unaccompanied children is based on the assessment of the best interests of the child.

Indicator 15.2: There is a possibility to transfer unaccompanied children as a result of identified special reception needs.

Indicator 15.3: Transferring unaccompanied children should be limited to a minimum and only occur when they service the best interests of the child, for example better access to family members or educational services.

• Additional remarks: In particular, safety considerations such as in the cases of victims of human trafficking, sexual and GBV, torture or other serious forms of psychological and physical violence, could necessitate the (re-)allocation of different housing for unaccompanied children if special needs become apparent at a later stage to be adequately identified and assessed (cf. Chapter 2. Special needs and safety risks, Standard 8 and Indicator 8.3).

Indicator 15.4: Unaccompanied children who have reached the age of majority should be allowed to stay in the same place/area if possible. Special measures should take place when transferring unaccompanied children reaching the age of majority to an adult reception facility. The transfer should be carefully organised together with both reception facilities and the unaccompanied children.