Pokhara, known as Nepal’s ‘tourist capital,’ has seen a large influx of poor migrants, including unaccompanied children and young people, seeking work – only to end up in slums, surviving on insecure daily labour in overcrowded, unsafe settlements.

Children growing up in these conditions face daily neglect and exploitation. Those in the most extreme family situations – where poverty is compounded by unemployment, substance abuse, domestic violence, food insecurity, or poor mental health – are the most vulnerable. They are the children most likely to be pushed into hazardous labour, early marriage, or trafficking, yet least likely to be noticed or supported.

This three-year grant will support outreach workers to seek out children at risk of exploitation and help these young people recover from crisis, regain stability, and benefit from the protection and nurturing care of a supportive family.

Working with two local partners, the project seeks to support 480 children over three years: removing them from street or hazardous labour situations in Pokhara and ensuring that working adolescents (14 and above) are protected through improved working conditions

A remedial education will be offered to improve the children’s numeracy and literacy, and children with additional behavioural issues will receive intensive rehabilitation. Where possible, the children and young people will be reintegrated with their parents or extended family.