Forced marriage is defined as a marriage conducted without the valid consent of one or both parties, where duress is a factor.

Are you worried about being forced into a marriage either in the UK or abroad or have you been forced to marry against your will? 

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

'Marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of the intending spouses'

• No one has the right to force an individual to marry

• No major world faith condones forced marriage

• You have the right to choose who you marry

If someone is forcing you to marry or you have been forced into a marriage against your will they may have broken the law in the UK and in other countries. 

 

What you need to do...

If you are leaving the UK and fear you will be forced to marry, it is vital that you contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on 0207 008 0230 and ensure you leave the following details...

• Your name (as shown on your passport)

• Your date of birth

• Your parents' names

• Details of where and with whom you will be staying abroad

If you can supply them, the following details may also help with any necessary investigation...

• Your passport number, date and place of issue

• A recent photograph

• Your address and telephone number in UK

• The date you are expected to return

• Details of a reliable friend or relative in the UK
  

 

In preparing to leave, make sure you take with you...

• The address and a contact number of the British High Commission/Embassy in the country you are visiting (details available from Foreign and Commonwealth Office)

• Some money in case you need to make a phone call or arrange transport

• A mobile phone that works abroad

 

For details of other organisations you can contact for help, click here...

 

For more information, follow the links above or call our helpline on 0161 628 4991