In partnership with the Migrant and Refugee Children’s Legal Unit (MiCLU) based at Islington Law Centre, and Shpresa Programme, the project puts young asylum seekers at the centre, empowering them to become advocates for their own rights and share learning from peer to peer.

The evaluation was carried out by young participants who trained as Research Champions. Created in conjunction with Dr Rachel Alsop, Senior Lecturer at the University of York, this report highlights their lived experiences and how the project has shaped their lives—both in terms of securing asylum and rebuilding a sense of community and self-worth.

The report is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by Albanian youth in the asylum process, particularly against a backdrop of increased governmental hostility and anti-immigrant and racist rhetoric. Through this evaluation, the voices of young people are amplified, offering valuable insights for policymakers, advocates, and legal professionals alike.

As an exemplary model of youth-centered advocacy, the Breaking the Chains project not only provides life-saving legal representation but also fosters resilience, hope, and community among some of the most vulnerable populations in the UK.

This report is crucial reading for anyone invested in refugee rights, youth advocacy, or asylum policy, demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can drive meaningful change.

With tremendous thanks to our funders: the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Reaching Communities and AB Charitable Trust; and to Dr Rachel Alsop, and the staff of Breaking the Chains, and most especially the 11 Research Champions who were the driving force behind this report.

The project uniquely captures how effective legal representation can be provided to children and young people vulnerable to exploitation, placing young people at the centre of practice and amplifying their voices to share learning. The report considers the successes of this approach and looks at what more is needed to create effective change.

Albania is one of the highest applicant-producing countries of children seeking asylum in the UK (being consistently in the top six). It is also one of the top three source countries of children referred to the National Referral Mechanism as potential victims of trafficking.