Forced Marriage - Frequently Asked Questions

What is Forced Marriage?

Forced marriage is where one or both spouses do not (or cannot) consent to the marriage and duress is involved. This can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure.

 

What are its consequences?

Someone forced to marry may find it very difficult to initiate any action to end a marriage and may be subjected to rape and ongoing domestic abuse. In some cases they suffer violence and abuse from extended family. Victims often end up trapped in a relationship marred by physical violence and abuse. This can subsequently have a significant impact on children with the marriage through learned behaviour. This can also cause a child be traumatised and emotionally insecure. Likewise, it can have a detrimental effect on their academic attainment.

 

When did the legislation come into force?

This legislation came into Force on 16th June 2014

 

How will the legislation be implemented in West Yorkshire?

In West Yorkshire, we take a victim-led approach in delivering the Forced Marriage Legislation. This will respect the views of victims and provide the necessary support.

The legislation allows a greater remit in prosecuting those involved in Forced Marriage. Before the legislation was introduced, crimes would only be individually identified through assault, kidnap, rape and other associated offences.

 

What are the penalties for committing this crime?

Under the Forced Marriage legislation, those found guilty can face up to seven years imprisonment.

 

Are there any signs or warning indicators of this crime?

Men, women and girls facing forced marriage may become anxious, depressed and emotionally withdrawn with reduced self esteem. Employment may reveal signs of a victim’s situation, for instance, leaving work accompanied, being subject to financial controls and poor performance or attendance. Education also can reveal signs of this crime occurring, such as extended leaves of absence and failures to return from visits to other countries of origin. A sudden announcement of an engagement to an apparent stranger may also point towards Forced Marriage.

Females may have an early or unwanted pregnancy following a Forced Marriage.

 

When and how should I contact the Police?

If you think that someone is planning a Forced Marriage, either involving you, or someone you know, you can speak to one of our Safeguarding Teams in confidence by calling 101. They will take all reports seriously and the needs and wishes of the victim will be given priority. A full list of local contacts is available by clicking here.

If a crime is taking place or there is a danger to life, such as a forced marriage is taking place or someone is being taken out of the country against their will, you should call 999 immediately.

 

Is this crime specific to a particular culture?

The majority of forced marriages cases reported in the UK involve South Asian families, however, it is not solely a South Asian problem as cases have also been seen from families of European, East Asian, African and Middle Eastern decent.

 

Is this crime associated with any particular religious background?

Forced marriage is not specifically attached to a particular belief, or is it condoned through religion. Every major faith condemns it and freely giving consent is a prerequisite of all religions.

 

Is this offence gender specific?

Men are affected, although under-reporting often means that information is limited. Men are not, however, always subject to the same cultural expectations as women, and the number of forced marriage instances is therefore lower.

 

Who are the perpetrators?

Perpetrators in a majority of forced marriages are predominantly family members, however, there are circumstances where others are involved.

 

Who are the victims of Forced Marriage in West Yorkshire?

A majority of forced marriage related reports received by West Yorkshire Police relate to women and girls aged between 13 and 30, however, victims are not exclusive to the female sex. Both men and women, young and old can be victims of forced marriage. Children born out of a forced marriage can also suffer through their experiences within a negative family environment.

 

What is the difference between ‘Forced’ and ‘Arranged’ Marriage?

There is a clear distinction between forced marriage and arranged marriage. Arranged marriages see the families of both spouses taking a leading role in arranging the marriage but the choice whether or not to accept the arrangement remains with the prospective spouses. In Forced Marriage, one or both spouses do not (or cannot through disability) consent to the marriage and duress is involved.

 

How does West Yorkshire compare to other areas of the country?

Recorded offences relating to forced marriage in West Yorkshire are comparable to other areas of the country similar in size and demographic. There are certainly members of our community who suffer in silence, however; and this latest campaign emphasises the Force’s commitment to the issue and our efforts to ensure more victims come forward.

 

What is the Police doing to prevent this crime?

Every District of West Yorkshire has a dedicated Safeguarding Unit which comprises or police, local authority and partnership members. Through this joint working we have forged established links which place the victim first. Our latest campaign which highlights the new legislation, is a continuation of our efforts to encourage more victims to come forward and give them they support they need.