There is a distinct difference between an arranged marriage and a forced marriage.

Arranged marriages

Arranged marriages have been conducted successfully in many countries and communities for many years.

For instance did you know that people from Jewish, Hindu, Muslim, Sikh and Christian faiths all conduct arranged marriages?

Arranged marriages are organised by the parents of the potential spouses but ultimately the choice to marry remains with the two individuals.

Forced Marriage

A forced marriage is a marriage that is arranged without the consent of one or both parties.

Some parents force their children into marriages because they feel they need to protect their children, build stronger families and uphold cultural or religious traditions.

Some parents are often under pressure from their community or families; they feel the need to uphold their family honour or comply with long-standing family commitments.

What can you do if you feel you are being forced into a marriage you don't want to be in?

• You can report your situation to your local police station. There will be trained police officers who can speak with you in secure, confidential and private surroundings.
• There are support groups available that provide safe environments for you to discuss your problems and explore your options.
• The police or even one of your teachers can also apply for a Forced Marriage Protection Order on your behalf. The orders are aimed to protect you in certain circumstances and prevent a forced marriage from occurring. For example:
• you may be asked to hand over your passport to prevent you being taken out of the country
• your parents or guardians may be made to reveal your whereabouts

The aim of the orders is to make those responsible for forcing you into a marriage to change their behaviour or face jail.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Forced Marriage Unit - 020 7008 0230

www.fco.gov.uk/en/fco-in-action/nationals/forced-marriage-unit/

Muslim Youth Helpline - 0808 808 2008

www.myh.org.uk

Childline - 0800 1111 (freephone)

www.childline.org.uk

NSPCC - 0800 800 5000 (freephone)

www.nspcc.org.uk

Victim Support - 0845 30 30 900

www.victimsupport.org

Women's Aid National Domestic Violence Helpline - 0808 2000 247

www.womensaid.org.uk