§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what measures are undertaken by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service to ensure that full medical and psychiatric reports of a parent who is not a UK citizen are examined when making their report. [152401]
§ Margaret HodgeCAFCASS officers are able to make inquiries of health and psychiatric services if it is deemed necessary to take such information into account to ensure the best interests of the child are met when preparing their reports.
If the circumstances require, CAFCASS officers are able to seek a direction from the Court to request relevant information. They are also able to contact International Social Service, or the relevant consulate to obtain necessary documents from abroad.
§ John MannTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what procedures are followed by the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service in cases where one parent is a non-UK resident. [154080]
§ Margaret HodgeThe role of CAFCASS is professionally and impartially to inquire into individual cases, in order to assist the court in reaching decisions that are in the best interests of the children who are the subject of court proceedings.
The same procedures are followed by CAFCASS in cases where one parent may be a non-UK resident. In addition to collecting and assessing documentation for each case, CAFCASS officers are able to contact International Social Service, or the appropriate consulate, to obtain relevant documentary information from abroad.