In 2008 The Forced Marriage unit statistics recorded 1618
reports of possible forced marriage in the UK. Of those reported
39% involved minors. This of course is only the cases reported and
is believed to be only the tip of the iceberg.
The high profile case of the doctor forced to marry by her family
whilst in Bangladesh highlighted the impact forced marriages and
the wide reaching powers that the new legislation has.
People need to be able to distinguish between an arranged marriage
and one where someone is being forced to marry against their
wishes.
Perhaps whilst people are becoming more aware of forced marriages
highlighted in the media, there is still concern within the
judiciary that not enough cases are being brought and victims,
particularly minors and vulnerable adults, are not being adequately
protected.
Currently under the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007, a
person who is seeking protection can an apply to the court.
However, statistics show this is extremely rare and often the
victim will rely on the help or intervention of a third
party.
The Act provides that a "relevant person" can bring an
application on behalf of the person seeking to be protected but
this is a narrow group of people. Although anyone can bring an
application with permission of the court it is predominately the
police that do this. This will be dependant on police resources
when in fact on occasions it would be more appropriate and quicker
for social workers, support workers, housing officers, education
officers and those individuals connected to the victim to bring the
application.
We will be running a seminar on 15 October which will include
information on how to identify warning signs of a forced marriage
and provide information about how to use the Act to protect those
who have or are being forced into a marriage.
If you would like to attend this event please follow the link to book:
http://www.anthonycollins.com/events/forced-marriages.aspx
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
