Every year, more than 13,000 unaccompanied minors are identified in France¹. These young people, who often arrive from abroad alone, are entitled to specific protection: Child Welfare Services (ASE). This protection provides housing, support, and access to fundamental rights.
But how do you apply for it? And what are your rights?
👉🏼 We explain everything simply.
In 2023, nearly 19,370 unaccompanied minors (UAMs) were placed under the care of Child Welfare Services (ASE) by departments in metropolitan France². These young people arrive alone, without family, and in highly vulnerable situations. Once in France, they must be protected and supported.
This is the role of the ASE: to guarantee housing, access to healthcare and schooling, and support from a social worker.
However, this support remains fragile.
The 2023 report from the National Mission for Unaccompanied Minors also highlights theincrease in the number of female UAMs, who are particularly exposed to violence during their migration journey. Some are victims of trafficking, sexual exploitation, or domestic servitude. These situations require special vigilance from departments regarding medical and psychological follow-up, as well as the security of their housing³.
In this context, access to clear and up-to-date information is essential. That is what is offered by Soliguide, via the website and the app. Young people and professionals can find practical guides, useful addresses, and specific support centers based on their department.
It is a tool specifically designed to quickly guide people toward a solution for a particular issue.
If I am under 18 and alone, without a parent or guardian in France, I can request protection from Child Welfare Services.
I must report myself to the Departmental Council of the department where I am currently located.
Afterward, an assessment of my situation will be conducted to verify my age.
📍 In the Île-de-France region, there are specific locations for your initial steps⁴:
🆘 If I am in danger, I can call 119 – Allô Enfance en Danger (toll-free, 24/7)⁵.
If the ASE confirms that I am a minor, I will be taken into care until I turn 18.
I am then entitled to:
If the department determines that I am an adult, I can challenge this decision in court.
🗣️ While waiting for the judge's decision, I can contact organizations for help and request accommodation by calling 115.
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🧑⚖️ The department must provide me with a document explaining why they consider me to be an adult.
As mentioned above, Soliguide lists all the organizations that can help you assert your rights, in FranceWhether you need food, legal assistance, or help with administrative tasks, simply enter your city or location into Soliguide, and filter services based on your needs.
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🔎 Read also: The complete guide on Applying for Child Welfare Services protection on Soliguide.fr
Soliguide shows you where to find services and solutions tailored to your needs, whether for food, support, or other essential assistance.
Find out how to search easily on Soliguide:
Once the Soliguide app is open, simplyenter what you are looking for (meals, administrative support, day centers, etc.) and your location.
.Need help? With Soliguide, the solution is right at your fingertips!
Thanks to this app, you can quickly find solutions for your specific needs, wherever you are. Simply download Soliguide and search for resources available near you. Our new Soliguide appis now available on your Google Play Store and App Store. Soliguide offers simplified access to practical and essential resources.
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👉 Discover all our practical guides on Soliguide to help you with your procedures.
Several topics are available:
The guides are translated into several languages, and a chat is available to answer your questions.
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If you have a question, a doubt, or need a little help finding support: don't hesitate to write to us ! 👍🏼
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How?
📱 You can send us a private message on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok → @soliguide
💬 A live chat is also available on www.soliguide.fr, or directly in our mobile app (free and anonymous!) available for download on theApp Store and Google Play. So, no more excuses 😄
🗨️ And if you prefer to write by SMS or via WhatsApp, which is also possible using our number: 07 57 91 67 11
(⚠️ Please note, calls are not supported, messages only)
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We are here to help and guide you. 💜
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