Forced Marriage

A forced marriage is where one or both people do not, or cannot, consent to the proposed marriage yet, are coerced into it by their families or community.

Forced marriages can happen to anyone, of all ages, and can impact both men and women. You should not confuse forced marriage with an arranged marriage. In an arranged marriage the people are given a choice, and both agree to the marriage.

On occasion, arranged marriages can turn into forced marriage. This being when one party may change their mind however, they are still forced to marry, and they go through with the wedding under duress from their families.

Some signs that someone could soon be (or is already) a victim of forced marriage:

• running away from home

• depression, or becoming worried/withdrawn

• poor performance at work, school or college or unexplained absence

• a surprise engagement to a stranger you've not heard of before

• a sudden holiday (some people are misled into going abroad for a holiday or to see relatives)

• not returning from a visit to another country

The law

Forced marriage is illegal in the UK. Under the Forced Marriage Act 2007, you can apply to designated Courts in England and Wales for a Forced Marriage Civil Protection Order. Forbes are able to do this on your behalf.

These orders can be used to prevent someone from being forced into a marriage or to protect someone if a forced marriage has already taken place.

If your family is threatening you with violence if you do not go through with a forced marriage, please contact Forbes and will shall ensure the correct actions are taken.