A forced marriage is where one or both people do not (or in cases of people with learning disabilities or reduced capacity, cannot) consent to the marriage. A forced marriage is not to be confused with arranged marriage.
It may be that pressure or abuse is used, to force them into the marriage. In the UK, this is recognised as a form of domestic or child abuse and a serious abuse of human rights.
The type of pressure put on an individual/people to marry against their will may be:
· physical violence
· sexual violence
· threats of violence
· emotional abuse
· financial abuse
If you or someone you know is at risk in this way you can contact the Safeguarding Team at Chesterfield College on 01246 500688 or email ccsafe@chesterfield.ac.uk. Call the Police 999 if the person is in immediate danger and at risk of harm.
You can also contact the Forced Marriage Unit which will support victims and people at risk as well as professionals.
Call: (+44) (0) 207 008 0151 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
(+44) (0) 207 008 1500 Global Response Centre (out of hours)
Email: FMU@fco.gov.uk
