Forced marriage is a marriage without the full and free consent of both parties. It is a form of domestic violence and an abuse of human rights.

The Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 provides for the government to issue statutory guidance setting out responsibilities of all agencies dealing with forced marriage issues.

This consultation is the opportunity for practitioners and the public to comment on the draft guidance. These questions are drawn from forced marriage statutory guidance consultation paper, www.fco.gov.uk/fmconsultation. This survey is to only be used in conjunction with the consultation paper.

This lays out statutory requirements that agencies must have regard to when tackling this issue, which will build on their existing responsibilities to protect children and vulnerable adults. This guidance will play a key role in the fight against forced marriage. It will make sure victims and potential victims receive the response and support they need.

If you have any questions relating to this guidance, or if you require a hard copy or a copy in another format (e.g. braille, large font or audio) please contact the Forced Marriage Unit at fmconsultation@fco.gov.uk.