Protecting and supporting unaccompanied children during a disaster

When children become separated from their parents and family during disaster it can be very distressing. Separation places them at greater risk of physical and psychological harm (including abuse).

Children’s reunification needs will depend on how they were separated from their families. As well as considering the varied levels of protection and support they require, you’ll need to think about the individual child’s response to the disaster and their wellbeing needs. These all depend on things such as:

• the characteristics of the hazard or disaster
• their experience of the disaster
• their age, development, temperament, abilities, and individual strengths and vulnerabilities
• pre-existing adversities (individual or family)
• how the adults around them respond.¹

Ways to support children separated from parents and family

• Ensure unaccompanied children are not left unsupervised. First, find a trustworthy and supportive adult who can take care of them in a safe place. Then prioritise trying to identify and reunite them with their parents, relatives or caregivers as quickly as possible.
• The next priority is offering psychosocial care in a safe, supportive environment. Allow children to express their feelings and grief. They will likely be distressed if:
  • a parent(s), family member or friends have died
  • they are fearful for the wellbeing of these people
  • they have lost a much-loved pet, possessions or their home.

You can reassure and comfort infants and children, and encourage hopefulness by:

• using soothing words, a calm tone and gestures (e.g. patting their back, smiling with eye contact)
• for babies, holding and gently rocking them; for children, hugging them (with their permission)
• confirming that they are safe and that adults are taking care of them
• keeping them updated about steps being taken to reunite them with their parents/relatives (but only if you have accurate and verified information).

What next?

Once you have established a child’s physical and psychological safety, there is more you can do to support their recovery. Learn more in the Disaster Response fact sheets:

• Providing emotional support for infants, children and families
• Providing psychological first aid for infants, children and families