Practitioners' Guide - Forced marriage

Context

Three Dundee and Angus-wide protocols, on female genital mutilation, honour-based abuse, and forced marriage, have been developed by a multi-agency working group. Each protocol contains a section on operational instructions followed by broader guidance for staff.

This local protocol is adapted from the Scottish Government's Forced Marriage Statutory Guidance 2024.

Extent of the problem

In 2023, the Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) provided advice or support in 280 cases of forced marriage and 519 forced marriage enquiries. Of the 280 cases of forced marriage (and 3 of female genital mutilation) 2% of these were in Scotland. Proportionally, this percentage has remained consistent since 2012 with cases in Scotland.

• Between 2019 and 2022, Amina MWRC has supported 79 cases of forced marriage.
• Between 2019 and 2022, Hemat Gryffe Women's Aid supported 39 cases of forced marriage.
• Between 2019 and 2022, Shakti Women's Aid supported 47 adult survivors, 162 adults who were married and did not realise their marriage was a forced marriage, and 13 children and young people affected by (or victims of) forced marriage.

Source: Scottish Government Forced Marriage Statuary Guidance, 2024

Purpose

The implementation of this Tayside Protocol is intended to assist professionals, police, social care teams, voluntary sector partners, health and education (hereinafter referred to as practitioners) to effectively, consistently and safely deal with cases of Forced Marriage towards any person by:

• the early identification of such cases
• reducing the risk once these cases are identified
• initiating proportionate and effective joint short- and longer-term plans, in order to support the victim and deal effectively with perpetrators of crime
• maintaining and enhancing public confidence in the partner agencies, to respond safely and proportionately to allegations of forced marriage
• facilitating the effective use of powers, national guidance and best practice, in order to protect those living in Dundee and Angus from harm

The purposes of this protocol are to:

• provide a partnership approach to the identification and provision of services to individuals who have been affected or are in danger of being affected by abuse in the name of honour
• outline the processes involved in identifying and supporting victims, and how the agencies involved at each stage can best co-ordinate their actions
• provide a framework for sharing of information to assist the disruption of abuse in the name of honour
• balance the rights of the victim with the wider public interest in cases where criminal proceedings are being considered

Scope

This is the local protocol intended for use by the multi-agency workforce in Tayside.

This protocol applies to all victims or potential victims of forced marriage. Any victims of forced marriage aged less than 16 years of age must be dealt with under multi-agency child protection procedures. Where the age of a victim is uncertain and there are reasons to believe they may be a child it must be presumed they are a child and be dealt with under child protection arrangements pending verification of their age.

Where a child is thought to be at risk of significant harm, the primary concern will be for their safety and the planning process must reflect this.

Relevant legislation

• Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation (Scotland) Act 2005
• Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018
• Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006
• Forced Marriage (Protection and Jurisdiction) (Scotland) Act 2011
• Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015
• Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007
• Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003
• Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000
• Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009
• Children (Scotland) Act 1995
• Protection of Children (Scotland) Act 2003
• Protection of Children and Prevention of Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2005
• Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 (Section 122)
• Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007
• Equality Act (2010)
• Human Rights Act 1998
• UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
• UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)

Forced Marriage

A Forced Marriage is defined as a marriage conducted without the full and free consent of both parties and where duress is a factor. Duress can include physical, psychological, financial, sexual and emotional pressure. A clear distinction must be made between a forced marriage and an arranged marriage.

Forced marriage is an abuse of human rights.

Under section 122 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act (2014), "it is an offence under the law in Scotland if a person uses violence, threats or any other form of coercion for the purpose of causing another person to enter into a marriage, and believes, or ought reasonably to believe, that the conduct may cause the other person to enter into the marriage without full and free consent. Furthermore, in relation to a victim who is incapable of consenting to marriage by reason of mental disorder, the offence is capable of being committed by any conduct carried out for the purpose of causing the victim to enter into a marriage (whether or not the conduct amounts to violence, threats or any other form of coercion)".

An Arranged Marriage is one in which the families of both spouses are primarily responsible for choosing a marriage partner for their child, young person or relative, but the final decision as to whether or not to accept the arrangement lies with the potential spouses. Both spouses give their full and free consent. The tradition of arranged marriage has operated successfully within many communities for generations.

In Scotland, a couple cannot be legally married unless both parties are at least 16 years of age on the day of the wedding and can understand the nature of a marriage ceremony and of consenting to the marriage. Parental consent is not required. The Scottish Government recognises forced marriage to be a form of violence against women/gender-based violence and, where children are victims of forced marriage, child abuse. It may be associated with other forms of domestic abuse and "honour-based" abuse. Forced marriage can impact both men and women, however most cases typically involve younger women and girls between the ages of 15 and 30 years. There are patterns of victimisation which are vital to be aware of, however, it is likely that every individual case will be different. Some cases may take place solely in the UK, while others involve a prospective partner coming from overseas or a person being sent abroad.

The consequences of forced marriage can be devastating to the whole family, but especially to the young people affected. They may become estranged from their families and wider communities, lose out on educational opportunities, or suffer domestic abuse. Rates of suicide and self-harm are high.

For further information on female genital mutilation (FGM) and/or honour-based abuse, please see relevant Dundee and Angus protocols.

Possible warning signs for Forced Marriages include:

Health

• Self-harm.
• Attempted suicide.
• Eating disorders.
• Depression.
• Isolation.
• Substance misuse.

Family history

• Siblings forced to marry.
• Early marriage of siblings.
• Family disputes.
• Running away from home.
• Unreasonable restrictions, such as "house arrest".

Police involvement

• Other young people within the family reported missing.
• Reports of domestic abuse or breaches of the peace at the family home.
• Female genital mutilation.
• Victim reported for offences, such as shoplifting or substance misuse.

Employment

• Poor performance.
• Poor attendance.
• Limited career choices.
• Not allowed to work.
• Unable to attend business trips.
• Unreasonable financial control, such as confiscation of wages/income.

Education

• Truancy.
• Decline in performance or punctuality.
• Low motivation at school.
• Poor exam results.
• Being withdrawn from school by those with parental responsibility.
• Not allowed to attend extracurricular activities.

The one chance rule

All practitioners working with victims of honour-based abuse need to be aware of the "one chance rule". This means that they may only get one chance to speak to a potential victim and thus they may only have one chance to save a life. Therefore, all practitioners working within all agencies need to be aware of their responsibilities and obligations when they come across anyone suspected of being a potential victim of honour-based abuse. If the victim is allowed to walk out of the door without support being offered, that one chance might be wasted.

One chance checklist

You may only have one chance to speak to a potential victim of Forced Marriage and, therefore, only one chance to save a life.

• See the victim on his or her own - even if they are accompanied by others.
• See the victim immediately in a secure and private place where you will not be overheard.
• Reassure the victim about confidentiality and explain that you will not give information to family, friends or the community.
• Accept what is said.
• Explain all the options to the victim and possible outcomes.
• Recognise and respect his or her wishes.
• Assess the risk faced by conducting an appropriate and thorough risk assessment.
• Contact, as soon as possible, the lead worker responsible for forced marriage (if the potential victim is under 16 years, refer to child protection inter-agency guidance; if an adult at risk, discuss with your adult support and protection lead and refer to inter-agency guidance).
• Agree a way to make contact safely (for example, agree a code word).
• Obtain full details to pass on to the lead worker and record these safely.
• Provide contact details or help the victim to memorise your contact details and/or those of a support agency such as Women's Aid.
• Consider the need for immediate Police involvement, protection and placement away from the family and arrange this is necessary; this includes any action to stop the victim from being removed from the UK.
• Do everything possible you can to keep the victim safe.
• Get immediate advice if you are not sure what to do.

Victims can be male or female, but are most likely to be the latter.

Basic dos and don'ts

Under UK and Scots law honour-based abuse, domestic abuse and female genital mutilation are all crimes, and from September 2014, forcing someone into marriage, male or female, is also a criminal offence. You should not feel worried about appearing culturally insensitive as this is a human rights issue. Remember, you may be the person's only chance to get help.

What you should do

• Believe what the person is saying. It may seem unbelievable to you that families would force their daughters into marriage or would kill them for what seem like trivial transgressions, but it happens.
• Listen to the woman or girl's wishes.
• Seek advice from a relevant agency such as the Community Safety Unit, Forced Marriage Unit or from a specialist organisation like Scotland's Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline, Shakti Women's Aid or Amina MWRC.
• If dealing with a girl under the age of 18 years, refer to child protection procedures.
• Reassure the victim about confidentiality.
• Arrange a way for you to contact the victim discreetly.

What you should not do

• Do not contact the family or attempt mediation.
• Do not send the woman or girl back to her family.
• Don't assume the women in the family will protect the victim.
• Do not use a family or community member as an interpreter - always use an independent and impartial interpreter.
• Do not turn the woman or girl away as you may be her only chance to get help.

Record keeping

Accurate record keeping in all cases of forced marriage is essential.

Records should:

• be accurate, detailed, clear and include the date
• use the child or adult's own words in quotation marks
• document any injuries - include photographs, body maps or pictures of their injuries
• only be available to those directly involved in the person's case

Child and Adult Protection

A victim or someone at risk of forced marriage is "a child or adult at risk" under the terms of the relevant legislation.

Anyone in any doubt as to whether a case involving forced marriage is a child or adult at risk should contact the appropriate safeguarding lead.

Responding to Forced Marriage

Presentation to agencies may initially be reported as a case of domestic abuse or self-harm. Spouses forced into marriage may feel unable to leave due to a lack of family support, economic pressures, and other social circumstances. In some cases, they may fear having their own children taken away from them.

In process of interview and assessment, if the worker ascertains that this a case involving forced marriage, the worker must speak to a safeguarding lead/team manager as soon as possible.

The immediate response of any agency will be dependent on it's particular role and remit. If in doubt of your responsibilities, follow your agencies procedure for reporting a child or adult protection concern and discuss with a manager and/or safeguarding lead as soon as possible.

The Practitioner will:

• gather relevant information
• ascertain wishes of person
• inform of options and consequences
• have strategic discussion with team leader to determine future action
• complete risk assessment form

Specialist services will:

• decide what further information, if any, needs to be collected
• decide what immediate action needs to be taken, including consideration of a Forced Marriage Protection Order if relevant
• consider whether access to records needs to be restricted (consider if a family or community member works for the Local Authority, NHS or Police for example)
• decide which other agencies need to be contacted
• decide which organisation is most appropriate should an interpreter be required
• consider whether there is a need for a place of safety if the person does not want to, or cannot, return home
• consider whether to call a case conference
• ensure that a safety plan is in place if the person does not want or cannot leave home
• ensure that there is a facility for future contacts
• discuss whether the person would like support from an agency with specialist experience such as Women's Aid
• retain full and detailed records of all contact with the victim
• consider whether to report to the Police
• consider limiting information access to worker and manager if data systems permit

Police Scotland is committed to thoroughly investigating every report of forced marriage. Forced marriage is a criminal matter for investigation, however, it can also be a child (child protection processes will be considered up to the age of 18 years) or adult (adult protection processes may cover individuals aged 16 years and older) protection issue and one where the support of the victim, or potential victim, is at the core of the investigation. As such, the Police work closely with a range of partners including specialist services to ensure that every person who is a victim, or potential victim, will receive appropriate protection and safety advice.

When an enquiry is handed over to the Police, they will respond using their own Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

Assessing Risk

It is important to have a risk assessment framework which can help you to identify Forced Marriage risks. Consider using a risk assessment tool such as Safelives DASH Tool. They are useful to identify level of risks to inform you if you need to refer your client to MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) or inform you about which agencies you need to involve in providing protection.

• Be open minded and flexible in your approach, a free-flowing interview will uncover hidden issues
• Assess both the personal risks that a victim faces as well as the social/cultural practices that reinforce these. Try to establish what roles other family members may play in the abuse and their potential risks.
• The presence of children increases the wider risk of Domestic Abuse. If risk towards children is highlighted, you should consider referral to Social Work to obtain a full assessment of the children's situation.
• It might be the victim's first attempt to seek help. Victims often have no experience of using support services and by seeking help they could also be deemed to have brought further shame on the household/community.
• Shame, and therefore the risk, to a victim may persist long after the incident that brought about dishonour occurred. Consider whether the victim's partner, children, associates, or siblings are at risk. They may also suffer community/family pressures not to assist you.
• Authorities in countries from which some victims originate may support this practice and the victim may be concerned that you share this view, or that you may return them to their family.
• Their immigration status may be dependent on their spouse, and it may be used to dissuade them from seeking assistance
• Victims are sometimes persuaded to return to their country of origin under false pretences, when in fact the intention could be to harm them (Resources: Metropolitan Police, Honour-Based Abuse Leaflet, CAADA Block 1).
• Duty of care to report danger to the victim even though consent has not been given.

Guidance

Possible indicators

Some of the potential indicators of honour-based abuse and/or forced marriage are listed below.

Workplace indicators

• Persistent absence.
• Request for extended leave of absence and failure to return from visits to country of origin.
• Unable to attend business trips or functions.
• Subject to financial controls.
• Leaving work accompanied.
• Unable to be flexible in their working arrangements.
• Decline in behaviour, engagement, performance or punctuality.

Education indicators

• Prevented from going to higher/further education.
• Removal of person from a day centre with a physical or learning disability.
• Surveillance at school/college by siblings or cousins.
• Fear of forthcoming holidays.
• Persistent absence.
• Request for extended leave of absence and failure to return from visits to country of origin.
• Being withdrawn for school by those with parental responsibility.
• Not allowed to attend extracurricular activities.
• Sudden announcement of engagement to a stranger.

Health indicators

• Self-harm.
• Attempted suicide.
• Eating disorders.
• Depression.
• Emotionally withdrawn with low self-esteem.
• Hair shaved or cut severely.
• Accompanied to doctors or clinics and prevented from speaking to health practitioner in confidence.
• Taken to doctors to be examined to see if they are virgins.
• Female genital mutilation.
• Substance use.
• Early/unwanted pregnancy.

Police indicators

• Reports of domestic abuse, harassment or breaches of the peace at the family home.
• Victim or other siblings within family reported missing.
• Victim reported for offences - for example, shoplifting.
• Reports of other offences such s rape or kidnap.
• Acid attacks,
• Threats to kill and attempts to kill or harm.
• Truancy or persistent absence from school.

Cases of honour-based abuse and/or forced marriage can involve complex and sensitive issues and care must be taken to make sure that interventions do not worsen the situation. For example, mediation and involving the family can increase the risks to the person and should not be undertaken as a response to forced marriage or honour-based abuse.

Presentation

Cases of forced marriage may initially be reported to social work services as cases of domestic abuse. Spouses forced into marriage may suffer domestic abuse but feel unable to leave due to a lack of family support, economic pressures and other social circumstances. In some cases, they may fear having their own children taken away from them.

First steps in all cases

All practitioners working with victims of forced marriage and honour-based abuse need to be aware of the "one chance" rule. That is, they may only have one chance to speak to a potential victim and thus they may only have one chance to save a life. This means that all practitioners working within statutory agencies need to be aware of their responsibilities and obligations when they come across forced marriage cases. If the victim is allowed to walk out of the door without support being offered, that one chance might be wasted.

• See them immediately in a secure and private place where the conversation cannot be overheard.
• See them on their own - even if they attend with others.
• Ask the question - 'do you want to say no to this marriage?'
• Give them, where possible, the choice of the ethnicity and gender of the worker who deals with their case.
• Explain all the options to them.
• Recognise and respect their wishes.
• Perform a risk assessment.
• If the young person is under 16 years of age, refer to child protection.
• If the person is an adult with support needs, consider using adult protection process.
• Reassure them about confidentiality, such as practitioners will not inform their family.
• Establish a way of contacting them discreetly in the future.
• Obtain full details (see below information required for all cases).
• Consider the need for immediate protection and placement away from the family.
• Maintain a full record of the decisions made and the reason for those decisions.
• Information from case files and database files should be kept strictly confidential and preferably be restricted to named members of staff only.
• If necessary, record any injuries and arrange a medical examination.
• Give them personal safety advice.
• Develop a safety plan in case they are seen, for example prepare another reason why you are meeting.
• Advise them not to travel overseas. Discuss the difficulties they may face.
• Identify any potential criminal offences and refer to the police if appropriate. Give them advice on what service or support they should expect and from whom.
• Ensure that they have the contact details for specialist help - forced marriage unit, AMINA.
• Refer them, with their consent, to appropriate local and national support groups, counselling services and women's groups that have a history of working with survivors of domestic abuse and forced marriage.

Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO)

Part 1 of the Forced Marriage etc (Protection and Jurisdiction) (Scotland) Act 2011 empowers the courts in Scotland to make a forced marriage protection order (FMPO) which can protect both adults and children at risk of being forced into marriage and can offer protection for those who already have been forced into marriage.

The provision in this Part are designed to enable the courts to tailor the terms of an FMPO to protect and meet the specific needs of victims of forced marriage or potential forced marriage. For example it might state that the protected person must be taken to a place of safety designated in the order, or that the protected person be brought to a court at such time and place as the court specifies; that any violent, threatening or intimidating conduct be stopped; that the protected person not be taken abroad; or that documents such as passports or birth certificates be handed over to the courts.

The decision to apply for a FMPO will be taken after discussion with the team Leader, Legal Services and the Service manager. Legal services are responsible for preparing and presenting all applications to court. Staff involved will need to ascertain conditions to be attached, such as power of arrest, confiscation of passports, confidential place of safety.

There needs to be consideration given to the place of safety and the location. It may be that an out of area placement is preferable for safety and reassurance reasons. Organisations such as AMINA can provide ongoing support and by various means of communications.

It is envisaged that is most cases initial enquiries and assessment will have taken place.

The FMPO will be only be granted for the purpose of protecting a person from being forced into a marriage or from any attempt to force the person into a marriage, or who has been forced into a marriage.

In the Act "force" includes:

• (a) coerce by physical, verbal or psychological means, threatening conduct, harassment or other means
• (b) knowingly take advantage of a person's incapacity to consent to marriage or to understand the nature of the marriage

Areas that need to be considered:

• need for urgent/immediate action
• impact on protected person
• health, safety and wellbeing
• protected person's wishes and feelings
• age and level of understanding
• family history
• continuing threat and intent by family
• probable consequences of intervention/non-intervention
• location of place of safety
• ongoing support needed
• need for section 12 payments as may have no access to money, clothes, specific foods (halal) - vouchers not always applicable; access to benefits
• possibility of accessing personal belongings, such as visit to family home accompanied by social worker, police officer and interpreter (in case family make threats)
• need for safety plan
• duration of order
• awareness that order can be varied or recalled or extended

The court application may take time so need to ensure protected person has somewhere to stay while the application is proceeding.

Relevant third parties

Section 3 of the Act enables any person, with leave of the court, to apply for an FMPO. However, the victim, a local authority, the Lord Advocate and any other person specified by order may apply without leave.

Content of order

A protection order may contain prohibitions, restrictions or requirements which may include some of the following:

• to take protected person to place of safety
• to submit specific documents to the courts, such as passports, birth certificates
• may require a person to refrain from threatening or intimidating behaviour
• power of arrest for breaching order

Where an FMPO application goes to proof, the court makes its decision on the civil burden of proof, on the balance of probability.

The order lasts as long as it is required. The court can specify a period of time or no time limit can be set. If no time limit is set, the order remains in force until the court recalls it.

An interim order can be made to provide protection before a full order is made.

In certain circumstances, a civil court can also make a FMPO on its own initiative, without the victim or anyone else making a specific application to it. In criminal cases the court can refer the case to the Lord Advocate who can apply for a Forced Marriage Protection Order on behalf of the victim. This can happen if the victim is involved in another civil action (for instance, may be applying for a protective civil order) and the court considers that the circumstances of the matter are such that a FMPO should be made. If, in criminal proceedings, a court considers that an FMPO should be made (for instance, where trial evidence reveals that a person may be at risk of being forced into a marriage) it may refer the matter to the Lord Advocate, who may apply for an FMPO or take such other steps as are considered appropriate.

Variation or recall

Whilst there is no right of appeal, it is possible for the order to be varied or recalled. The adult who is subject to the order, the council or any other person who has an interest can apply for the order to be varied or recalled.

Breach of FMPO

Breach of a FMPO is a criminal offence and is punishable by imprisonment for up to 2 years and/or a fine of up to £10,000. The police may arrest without warrant any person who they reasonably believe is committing or has committed a breach of a FMPO.

As with any other civil order, the applicant or the protected person would be the person who would either go to court or report the breach to the police. However, any person including, for example, a friend or relative of the protected person (even if not directly affected by the order) could report a breach of a FMPO to the police for investigation.

Planning

Once the order has been granted and enacted it is important to ensure ongoing support and specialist help from groups who have a history of working with survivors of forced marriage.

If the protected person is placed outwith local authority area, arrangements need to be in place for ongoing support and future management.

Victim-centred approach

• Victims are listened to and they are able to communicate their needs and wishes.
• Victims are given accurate information about their rights and choices.
• Victims' wishes are considered about the level of intervention they require. Staff must make it absolutely clear to the victim when and why the organisation is going to intervene and what that intervention will be.
• All records belonging to individuals facing forced marriage should be kept secure to prevent unauthorised access by those within the broader community who may potentially pass on confidential information to a victim's family.
• Staff should also be aware that they, other colleagues within the organisation or others within the victim's support network may be approached and/or pressurised by a member of the victim's family, a family friend or a member of the community to give out information.
• Staff are aware that relatives, friends, community leaders and neighbours should not be used as interpreters or advocates, as they could be amongst the perpetrators of the forced marriage - despite any reassurances from this known person. If it is appropriate to use an advocate, then an independent advocate should be sourced.
• The victim must always be told what information is being shared, with whom it is being shared, who will have access to it and why it is being shared.
• Obtain the victim's consent to share information. Always tell the victim if you are planning to share information; who you will share it with; why; and who else might be party to it. You should also ask/tell her if any other organisations are aware of her circumstances even if you are not planning to share information with them.

The danger of involving the family and the community

• Involving families in cases of forced marriage may increase the risk of serious harm to an individual. The family may deny that the individual is being forced to marry and they may expedite any travel arrangements and bring forward the wedding.
• Staff should understand the danger of involving the family and the community in cases of forced marriage recognise that discussion with the family or any type of family involvement often places the person at greater risk of harm.

The options available to people facing forced marriage

In all cases, practitioners should discuss the range of options available to the person and the possible consequences. A spouse who is the victim of a forced marriage can initiate nullity or divorce proceedings to end the marriage, but should be made aware that a religious divorce will not end the marriage under UK law.

If someone fears they may be forced to marry, they have limited choices:

• to leave their family, start a new life and possibly have to remain in hiding
• to leave their family, start a new life knowing they face a life of ostracism and isolation
• to leave their family, start a new life and prosecute their family
• to return to the family and hope the situation can be resolved
• to seek legal protection

If someone is already trapped in a forced marriage, they have limited choices:

• to stay with the marriage
• to flee the marriage, start a new life and possibly have to remain in hiding
• to leave their family, start a new life knowing they face a life of ostracism and isolation
• to flee the marriage, start a new life and prosecute the family
• to leave the family and publicly refuse to sponsor their spouses visa application for entry into the UK

Future meeting and contacts

• Consider future contact and meetings - how contact made, place of contact where and when.
• Discuss any safe method of contact - friend, work colleague.
• If maintaining contact by mobile phone, establish if another member of family pays bill as record of call may place the person at risk.
• Make sure you have a code word to ensure you are speaking to the right person.
• Take care when sending messages that they cannot be intercepted.
• If they have moved, do not meet person at new address as you may be followed and never speak to them in presence of "friends".

Personal safety advice

Research shows that leaving home is the most dangerous time for women experiencing domestic abuse and this is often the case when someone flees a forced marriage. Therefore, if someone is planning to leave or the perpetrators suspect they might leave, they should take measures to ensure their safety.

Even if someone is not ready or willing to leave, they should still be advised of their options and helped with safety planning so they can take measures to protect themselves at home and make arrangements to leave home in an emergency.

Refer them, with their consent, to appropriate local and national support groups, counselling services and women's groups that have a history of working with survivors of domestic abuse and forced marriage.

Ask the person to think about:

• who they could go to in an emergency
• who would be able to send them money if necessary
• all the things they may need to start a new life
• the possible finality of this decision and the ongoing lack of contact between them, their family and extended family

When devising a strategy for someone over the age of 16 to leave home, they should:

• be fully consulted as to their future needs and their wishes respected
• consider the risk to themselves and whether they should involve the police
• open a separate/secret bank or savings account in their name
• leave copies of important documents such as passport, National Insurance number and birth certificate with police, social care services or a trusted friend
• leave spare clothing and cash, for example, with a trusted friend
• keep helpline numbers close at hand
• have a plan for how they may be able to use a phone for emergency use, such as having a second mobile phone hidden somewhere safe
• arrange alternative emergency accommodation should the need arise

If the person is leaving the family home:

• complete a safety plan before they leave the family home
• arrange for an adult, such as a social worker or specialist domestic abuse service worker, to accompany them if they insist on returning to the family home to collect their possessions
• if necessary, arrange for a police officer to escort the social worker/refuge worker or other and the person to collect their possessions - in order to prevent a breach of the peace
• ensure an accredited interpreter, who speaks the same dialect as the family, is also present, in case the family makes threats
• perform a risk assessment before visiting the family home
• advise the victim how their actions may compromise their safety
• take precautions to ensure that the person's identity, benefit, and other records are confidential
• encourage them to change their bank account details and mobile phone so they cannot be traced
• use existing domestic abuse safety measures such as mobile phones and alarms
• refer them, with their consent, to appropriate local and national support groups, counselling services and women's groups that have a history of working with survivors of domestic abuse and forced marriage

Immediate protection/actions

• Ideally, professionals should discuss cases of forced marriage with, and seek advice from, a designated professional or another statutory agency.
• However, there may be occasions when immediate emergency action is necessary to protect a child or young person from being forced to marry or abducted, such as police protection or legal measures for the emergency protection of adults. In this case, a strategy discussion should take place as soon as possible after the immediate protection to plan the next steps.
• It should be noted that the point at which the family become aware of intervention (when immediate protection measures are instigated) is a point of increased risk for the victim and any siblings. The emphasis should be on swift but comprehensive planning of intervention in order to not inadvertently alert the family/community to the fact that concerns have been identified and protective steps are being taken. There should also be emphasis on the fact that, similar to domestic abuse, separation from perpetrators does not guarantee safety.

It is important that staff:

• recognise the importance and relevance of immediate protection
• recognise the risk to other siblings in the household who might also be threatened with, or already in, a forced marriage
• understand that in almost no circumstances will it be sufficient to protect the person by removing the alleged perpetrator from the household (as in the significant majority of cases the extended family and wider community are also involved)
• recognise that placing the person with a family member or member of the same community may place them at risk of significant harm from other family members or individuals acting on the family's behalf
• understand that if a Forced Marriage Protection Order is in place and is breached that the police should be informed as soon as possible

National contacts

NSPCC FGM Helpline

NSPCC operates a dedicated helpline on FGM. Further information is also available on the NSPCC FGM website.

• Telephone 0800 028 3550
• Email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk

FGM in Scotland website

The FGM in Scotland website has a range of guidance and resources, launched on 6 February (UN Day for zero tolerance to FGM) 2015. A short, animated film about FGM can be viewed on the website which also provides a range of information, resources - FGM and Health, Child Protection, FGM and the law and links to further resources/information. The film 'Sara's Story' (available as a download and/or DVD with facilitators notes) is intended for use across Scotland as part of Violence Against Women, Child Protection, Adult Support and Protection training.

NHS Scotland

• The Scottish Government issued a letter to NHS Boards in 2014.
• View a range of resources to support routine enquiry of gender-based violence in Scotland.
• NHS Choices FGM information pages

Information for schools in Scotland

• Schools: The Scottish Government wrote to all Headteachers in Scotland in February 2014 outlining the role schools play in relation to FGM and highlighting National Guidance for Child Protection, links to the UK Home Office leaflet and the Women's Support Project who have been funded by the Scottish Government to develop resources for use in training and education.
• Education Scotland FGM resources
• Teach, Educate, Share website provides a range of materials including a comprehensive and adaptable lesson plan including guidelines and preparation information for teachers who are teaching the lesson. It also includes detailed notes for how to teach the lesson. The interactive lesson consists of various age-appropriate activities.

FORWARD

FORWARD is a UK-wide organisation campaigning against FGM. View Forward's Young People Speak Out program which aims to engage with young people on FGM.

Equality Now

Equality Now advocates for the human rights of women and girls around the world.

Karma Nirvana

Karma Nirvana provides specialist support to Asian women and children and advice to other agencies. They can also access refuge accommodation.

Shakti Women's Aid

Shakti Women's Aid offers support and information to all black minority ethnic women, children and young people who are experiencing or fleeing domestic abuse, forced marriage and other honour-based violence issues. They also have refuge accommodation.

• Telephone: 0131 475 2399

Saheliya

Saheliya is an organisation, which provides a safe and confidential service that supports the mental health and wellbeing of Black and Minority Ethnic women in Edinburgh. Services include counselling, support, befriending and advocacy.

ROSHNI

Roshni aims to raise awareness and ensure the safety of children, young people and adults within minority ethnic communities.

Amina Muslim Women's Resource Centre

Amina works with mainstream agencies to establish the barriers that prevent Muslim women from accessing services and participating in society. They provide direct helping services and community development to Muslim women.

• Freephone helpline: 0808 801 0301

Beyond the Veil

Beyond the Veil educate and inform the public to clear misconceptions and myths surrounding Islam.

• Beyond the Veil
  c/o 1 House O'Hill Road
  Edinburgh
  EH4 2AJ
• Email: nasim.azad69@yahoo.co.uk

The FGM National Clinical Group

Advocates for the end of the Female Genital Mutilation practice as well as championing education and support for healthcare specialists and advisors throughout the National Health Service and the wider community. The FGM Resource is targeted at specialists, practitioners and educators based in the UK and abroad, with the intentions to provide an overall context of FGM and its current standing within healthcare and political arenas.

Zero Tolerance

Zero Tolerance briefing paper which provides links to further FGM information and resources.

Orchid Project

Information and awareness-raising of FGM.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office Forced Marriage Unit

The Forced Marriage Unit is a single point of confidential advice and assistance for those at risk of being forced into marriage overseas.

• Telephone: 020 7008 0151
  From overseas: +44 (0)20 7008 0151
  Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
• Out of hours telephone: 020 7008 1500 (ask for the Global Response Centre)
• Email: fmu@fcdo.gov.uk

Scottish Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline

Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Telephone: 0800 027 1234
• Text/WhatsApp: 07401 288595
• Online chat
• Email: helpline@sdafmh.org.uk

LGBT Centre for Health and Wellbeing

The LGBT centre provides a varied programme of services, events, courses and groups for LGBT people.

• 9 Howe Street
  Edinburgh
  EH3 6TE
• Telephone: 0131 523 1100
  Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
• Email: admin@lgbthealth.org.uk

LGBT+ Helpline Scotland

• Telephone 0800 464 7000
• Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday fro midday to 9pm
  Sunday from 1pm to 6pm

Just Right Scotland Scottish Anti-Trafficking and Exploitation Centre

The Scottish Anti-Trafficking and Exploitation Centre is the only specialist legal project in Scotland that provides direct legal advice and representation to child and adult survivors of trafficking and exploitation in Scotland regardless of nationality, gender, type of exploitation and geographical location.

Iranian and Kurdish Women's Rights Organisation

The Iranian and Kurdish Women's Rights Organisation provide advice, support, advocacy and referral in Arabic, Kurdish and Farsi to help women, girls and men escape the dangers of "honour" killing, forced marriage and domestic abuse.

• If you are in immediate danger dial 999
• Telephone 0207 920 6460
• Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm
• Email: info@ikwro.org.uk
• For out-of-hours emergencies, call:
  • Kurdish/Arabic/English: 07846 275246
  • Farsi/Dari/English: 07846 310157

Scottish Women's Aid

Scottish Women's Aid does not offer direct services for women. Services for women and children are provided by Angus Women's Aid, Dundee Women's Aid and Perth and Kinross Women's Aid. Scottish Women's Aid is a good resource for workers.

• Scottish Women's Aid
  2nd Floor
  132 Rose Street
  Edinburgh
  EH2 3JD
• Telephone: 0131 226 6609
• Email: contact@scottishwomensaid.org.uk

Rape Crisis (Scotland)

Rape Crisis Scotland (RCS) is the national office for the rape crisis movement in Scotland.

• Rape Crisis Scotland
  46 Bath Street
  Glasgow
  G2 1HG
• Telephone: 0141 331 4180
• Email: info@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

The Rape Crisis Scotland National Helpline provides crisis support for anyone in Scotland affected by sexual violence at any time in their lives:

• Telephone: 08088 01 03 02 (free number)
  Everyday, 6pm to midnight

Archway

Archway Glasgow is Scotland's first Sexual Assault Referral Centre, providing forensic and medical assistance, as well as support and counselling for anyone who has recently been raped or sexually assaulted.

• Telephone: 0141 211 8175
• Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross contacts

Perthshire Women's Aid

• Perthshire Women's Aid
  49 York Place
  Perth
  PH2 8EH
• Telephone: 01738 639043
• Available 9.30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday

Dundee Women's Aid

• Dundee Women's Aid
  47 Blinshall Street
  Dundee
  DD1 5DF
• Support Line: 01382 207099
  Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm
• Text Line: 07763 682105
  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10am to midday and 2pm to 4pm
  Thursday: 10am to midday
• Business Line: 01382 220803
  Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm

Angus Women's Aid

• Angus Women's Aid
  290 High Street
  Arbroath
  DD11 1JF
• Telephone: 01241 439437 
• Email: info@anguswomensaid.co.uk

Domestic Abuse Liaison Unit

• The on-duty DS can be contacted on 01382 591891 or 96.
• Email: TaysideDAIU@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Shakti Women's Aid (Dundee)

Shakti Women's Aid offers support and information to all black minority ethnic women, children and young people who are experiencing or fleeing domestic abuse, forced marriage and other honour-based violence issues.

• Enterprise House
  45 North Lindsay Street
  Dundee
  DD1 1PW 
• Telephone: 01382 207095

Amina Muslim Women's Resource Centre

Amina works with mainstream agencies to establish the barriers that prevent Muslim women from accessing services and participating in society. They provide direct helping services and community development to Muslim women.

• Freephone helpline number: 0808 801 0301
• Dundee: 01382 224 687
  Opening hours: 9.30am to 5pm 
• Glasgow: 0141 585 8026 
• Email: www.mwrc.org.uk

Victim Support Scotland

Practical and emotional support for victims of crime. Also support at court for victims and witnesses.

• Support helpline: 0800 160 1985
• Victim Support Angus
  1st Floor
  Merrin House
  50 East Abbey Street
  Arbroath
  DD11 1EN
• Perth and Kinross
  Unit 1
  Highland House
  St Catherine's Road
  Perth
  PH1 5YA

Telephone: 01738 567171

• Dundee
  Quadrant House
  9 Riverside Drive
  Dundee
  DD1 4NY

Telephone: 01382 238720

Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (RASAC) Perth and Kinross

• 18 King Street
  Perth
  PH2 8JA
• Business line: 01738 626290
• Helpline: 01738 630965
• Email: rasacpk@gmail.com

Women's Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (WRASAC)

• WRASAC - Dundee and Angus
  2 Dudhope Street
  Dundee
  DD1 1JU
• Telephone: 01382 201291
• Email: support@wrasac.org.uk