The government has launched the first interactive online training tool to help lawyers and other professionals handle forced marriage cases.
The Forced Marriage Unit (FMU) resource, “Forced Marriage E-learning” uses scenarios based on real life stories to show professionals how to identify the first warning signs, provide the right support and reach a positive outcome. It encourages anyone who comes in to contact with those affected to work together closely in order to protect victims.
In 2009, FMU received 1,682 calls or e-mails to its helpline about potential incidents of forced marriage. Under the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act (2007), victims of forced marriage or others acting on their behalf, can apply for a forced marriage protection order. These can be used to prevent someone being forced into marriage, or to protect someone where a marriage has already taken place. Non-compliance with the orders can lead to arrest.
Olaf Henricson-Bell, FMU joint head, says: “Front line professionals may only have one chance to help someone at risk of forced marriage, and making the wrong call could
