KCSIE 2026 Annex A covers forced marriage under 'honour' or faith-based abuse. Pressure can be physical, emotional or psychological. A lack of full and free consent includes people who cannot consent, for example because of a learning disability. Some perpetrators use perceived cultural practices to justify it.
Two offences matter for schools:
- Forced marriage is a crime under section 121 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
- Child marriage. Since February 2023, it has been a crime to do anything intended to cause a child to marry before their 18th birthday, even if no violence, threats or coercion are used. Like the forced marriage law, this covers unofficial "marriages" that aren't legally binding, as well as legal ones.
Signs a school may notice include a pupil worried about a family trip abroad, sudden extended absence, a sibling who married young, or restrictions on the pupil's freedom. As with other forms of HBA, think carefully before contacting the family, and speak to the DSL first.
The government's guidance, "The right to choose", has multi-agency practice guidelines with a chapter for schools and colleges. School staff can contact the Forced Marriage Unit for advice on 020 7008 0151 or fmu@fcdo.gov.uk.