Forced Marriage
At BPP, every student has the right to make their own choices about relationships and marriage. No one has the right to pressure, force, or coerce you into a marriage you do not want.
Support is available if you are worried about yourself, a friend, or a family member.
Everyone has the right to choose if, when and whom they marry. Forced marriage is illegal in the UK and is a safeguarding concern.
What is a Forced Marriage?
A forced marriage is illegal in England and Wales. It is a criminal offence, and anyone who forces someone to marry can receive a prison sentence of up to 7 years.
Forced marriage happens when someone faces:
Including threats, violence or sexual violence.
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Emotional or Psychological Pressure
Including manipulation, guilt, or being told you are bringing shame on your family.
Everyone Has the Right to Choose
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When they want to marry
No one, not even family, can make this decision for you.
Forced Marriage Can Include
Taking someone overseas with the intention of forcing them into a marriage, whether the marriage happens or not.
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Lack of Capacity to Consent
Arranging a marriage for someone who lacks the mental capacity to consent, even if no direct pressure is used.
If you are a BPP student who regularly travels, lives with family, or juggles cultural expectations alongside your studies, you may be particularly concerned about these risks. Support is confidential and available.
Forced Marriage Protection Orders (FMPOs)
A Forced Marriage Protection Order can provide legal protection if:
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Someone is being forced into a marriage
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Someone has already been forced into a marriage
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Someone is at risk of being taken abroad for the purpose of marriage
These orders can prevent travel, protect your passport, prohibit contact, and put safeguards in place to help keep you safe.
Support for BPP Students
If you are worried about yourself or someone else:
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Contact BPP's Safeguarding Team
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Speak to trusted friends or professionals
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Access national specialist services for advice
You will be listened to and taken seriously, and support is available regardless of whether you choose to make a formal report.
Please be aware that in rare situations where we have serious concerns about someone's immediate safety, we may need to share information with the appropriate authorities even without your consent. If this happens, we will continue to work alongside you and make sure you are kept informed and supported throughout.
☎ Safeguarding Phone: 07464 542636
🕘 Monday to Friday: 9:00am to 5:30pm
✉ Email: safeguarding@bpp.com
Specialist Support Services
If you need specialist advice or support, the following organisations can help.
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Forced Marriage Unit (FMU)
If you are trying to stop a forced marriage or need help leaving a forced marriage.
Email:
fmu@fcdo.gov.uk
Telephone:
020 7008 0151
From Overseas:
+44 (0)20 7008 0151
Monday-Friday:
9:00am to 5:00pm
Out of Hours:
020 7008 5000
Provides confidential support for people facing forced marriage, honour-based abuse, or concerns about being taken abroad.
Phone:
0800 5999 247
Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm
Visit Karma Nirvana
Specialist support for victims of forced marriage and abuse carried out in the name of honour.
Phone:
01642 683045
Freephone:
08081 788 424
Visit The Halo Project
Emergency Support
If you are in immediate danger or believe someone else is at immediate risk:
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Forced Marriage Unit Out-of-Hours: 020 7008 5000