Social workers don’t make deportation decisions; we provide impartial, evidence-based assessments to ensure that the child’s best interests are considered.
Social Workers, Deportations and… Chicken Nuggets?!
Over my years as a social worker, I’ve heard my profession criticised for many things. Recently, I came across a heated YouTube debate claiming that a “leftist social worker” argued against deporting a convicted criminal because his autistic child wouldn’t get his preferred brand of chicken nuggets in the country of origin.
This case highlights the importance of understanding autism, human rights law, and social work ethics in immigration proceedings.
This narrative is not only misleading, but it also shows a profound lack of understanding of:
- The needs of autistic children
- The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
- The European Convention on Human Rights
- Social work ethics and UK child welfare legislation
Social work is one of the most highly regulated professions. We do not “wake up and push a left-wing agenda.” Our reports must be impartial and evidence-based, and courts and migration tribunals require this standard.
The Case in Question
Individual: Klevis Disha, 39, Albanian national.
Background:
- Entered the UK illegally in 2001 as an unaccompanied minor.
- Used a false identity and later gained citizenship in 2007.
- Convicted in 2017 for possession of criminal proceeds (£250k–£300k).
- Citizenship revoked in 2021 for deception; deportation ordered.
Why Deportation Was Halted:
- Tribunal found it would be “unduly harsh” for his 10-year-old son (‘C’) to relocate.
- Child had sensory issues, food sensitivities, and an educational support plan, though no formal autism diagnosis.
Legal Principles Behind This Decision:
- Section 55, Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009:
The child’s best interests must be a primary consideration. - UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 3):
Welfare of the child should guide decision-making. - Article 8 ECHR:
Right to family life balanced against public interest in deportation.
Social Work Ethics in Action
Social workers operate under strict ethical codes (BASW, IFSW). In cases like this, our role is to ensure decisions are informed by evidence and child welfare principles:
- Human Rights & Social Justice
Advocate for fair treatment and dignity - Best Interests of the Child to
Prioritise emotional stability, education, health, and continuity of care - Anti-Discriminatory Practice
Challenge bias against migrants and those with disabilities - Advocacy & Empowerment
Help families navigate complex legal systems - Professional Integrity
Reports must be impartial and evidence-based - Confidentiality & Respect
Protect sensitive family information
Why This Case Matters
This case isn’t about chicken nuggets, but about child welfare in the context of immigration law. Social workers are not decision-makers; we provide expert assessments to help courts and tribunals weigh complex factors. Our duty is to uphold ethics, law, and the best interests of children and Families.
By Henrietta Coker, a member of the ASCS expert panel.
Learn more about the case by clicking here.