Key takeaways
Recognise early warning signs
Behavioural changes and sudden plans may indicate abduction risk.
Legal tools can prevent removal
Orders, port alerts, and passport controls reduce abduction risk.
Act quickly and seek advice
Early legal action significantly improves chances of prevention.
This article forms part of our series on international child abduction and focuses on steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of abduction.
In our first article, What is international child abduction? A guide for parents, we explained what constitutes international child abduction and the legal implications. In the second article, What is the Hague Convention? How international child abduction cases are resolved, we looked at the legal framework used to secure the return of children who have been wrongfully removed or retained abroad.
While legal remedies exist after an abduction has occurred (as addressed in our earlier articles in this series), it’s often preferable to take early, preventative action where possible. The consequences of a child abduction are significant for all involved.
Recognising the warning signs of child abduction
Some indicators that a parent may be considering removing a child include:
sudden life changes, such as ending employment or selling a home without clear future plans
unexpected requests for passports or important documents
noticeable changes in behaviour, such as becoming unusually secretive, overly friendly, or hostile.
Protective measures to prevent child abduction
If you are concerned about the risk of abduction, several legal and practical measures are available:
A Prohibited Steps Order can prevent a parent from taking specific actions (such as removing a child from the UK) without the court’s permission. In urgent cases, applications can be made without notifying the other parent.
If there is an immediate risk (within 48 hours), the police can issue a port alert. The police will contact the National Border Targeting Centre and ask them to alert all points of departure from the UK, including ports and airports, to try to prevent the child being taken out of the country. Port alerts usually last 28 days unless extended by the court.
You may be able to alert HM Passport Office to prevent a passport being issued without consent.
If the child is entitled to a foreign passport, it may also be possible to contact the relevant embassy or consulate.
Seek early legal advice
If you are concerned about a potential abduction, it is important to seek advice from a specialist family lawyer as soon as possible.
Parents can contact Reunite International Child Abduction Centre for advice and support.
How our Family Team can support
If you require advice or assistance, you can learn more about our Family and Relationships team here, or contact us to discuss how we can help.
