Local authorities can now seek a protection order for vulnerable adults and children without first having to seek leave of the court, under new powers which came into force on 2 November.
Forced Marriage Protection Orders can help vulnerable victims in a range of situations depending on what is needed most. These include orders to:
• prevent anyone entering into any arrangements for engagement or marriage
• hand over passports to stop someone from being taken abroad
• stop intimidation and violence
• reveal the whereabouts of a person.
Failure to comply with an order could lead to imprisonment. Courts are also able to initiate steps to return those already forced into marriage back to the UK.
Forced marriage guidance is online at:
www.justice.gov.uk
Forced marriages - Guidance for police officers (Pdf, 2.7Mb)
Forced marriages - Multi agency practice guidelines (Pdf, 501 Kb)Â
Newcastle Safeguarding Children’s Board
Safe Newcastle
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