In the context of age-disputed children, where their age dictates their rights and entitlements, it’s easy to overlook the profound significance of age as a core aspect of identity. For most of us, our age is not just a number; it’s woven into the fabric of who we are, shaping our experiences, perceptions, and interactions with the world. This holds especially true for age-disputed children, whose journey to reclaim their true age is a reclaiming of their identity and sense of self.

Imagine for a moment being told that you’re not the age you know yourself to be. Suddenly, you’re not 28; you’re 35. It’s not just a matter of numbers, but a seismic shift in how you are now expected to perceive yourself and how others will perceive you. Your entire life narrative is altered, forcing you to present yourself as being in a vastly different stage of your life. You’ve now been denied the opportunity to authentically live your life. 

For many young people, the right to live authentically is the driving force behind their attempts to challenge the age they have been given. Some young people go as far as rejecting the extra rights and entitlements their correct age gives them. For example young people who, upon finally being recognised as eighteen, reject the extra support they would receive as ‘care leavers.’ To them, the additional entitlements hold little value compared to the profound significance of living life as their true age. One young person supported by RYS, was willing to share their story:

“I’ve known my age for as long as I can remember. It used to be a simple fact, but they didn’t believe me. It wasn’t just about being able to go to school, or being with other people my own age, – it was about being seen the same way as I see myself. Now they accepted me as eighteen, and they offer extra support. But now I don’t want it. All I want is to live my life independently as my real age, even if this means my life is made harder”.

Another young person simply told us  “I just want my real date of birth to be recognised. It would make me happy. It’s my real birthday.” 

Another said “It’s important for me because no one can live at an age that isn’t for him and I see injustice in it”.

These testimonies highlight the deep-seated impact of age disputes on young people’s sense of self and belonging, and their ability to trust. It’s a reminder that our age is more than just a legal designation; it’s a fundamental aspect of our identity that shapes how we navigate the world around us.

As we reflect on the significance of age, we ask those in positions of care and power not to overlook the profound link between age and identity, and not to perpetuate the narrative that asylum-seekers try to alter their ages to access what they are not otherwise entitled to. Let’s instead strive to create a world where every individual is recognised to be who they truly are.