Care cases with an international element

International Child Abduction Unit

The International Child Abduction and Contact Unit has published a form and guidance notes for local authorities to use in child protection cases to make a request for co-operation to another country. The form is intended to help local authorities check their request is covered by the Regulation or Convention and to ensure that they include enough information to enable the ICACU to process their request.  The form can be completed by a local authority lawyer or social worker.

Download the form here: International Child Abduction and Contact Unit request for co-operation form

Main aims of the form

1. Reduce delay and improve care planning for the child where the case has an international element.
2. Help local authorities make better formulated requests for information or assistance  to the other country.
3. Improve communication when sharing information about the child with the other country.

Read more:

• cross-border child protection and the Hague Convention
• Family Law Article: Care cases with an international element
• placing a child from an EU country into care
• working with foreign authorities to protect children