In the UK, forced marriages are illegal.
You have the right to choose who you marry, when you marry or if you marry at all.
Forced marriage is when you face physical or emotional pressure to marry and/or you do not consent to the marriage. For example, through threats, physical or sexual violence, you’re made to feel like you’re bringing shame and disgrace on your family if you don’t do as they say.
Many young people are forced into marrying someone against their will. This may be in the form of young girls taken abroad by their family under false pretences. They are told they are going on holiday when they are actually been taken to get married without their knowledge.
Forced Marriage Protection Orders can be requested from the courts. For example, the court may order someone to hand over your passport or reveal where you are to protect you.
If you or someone you know is at risk of forced marriage or ‘honour’ based abuse please contact us on the West Midlands Forced Marriage and ‘Honour’ Based Abuse Helpline on 0800 953 9777.
Support is available 7 days a week and is also available for practitioner’s seeking information and guidance on forced marriage or ‘honour’ based abuse. We also offer outreach support too.