Marriage
Marriage is something that a lot of us dream about happening one day.
It’s one way that you and your partner can show your commitment to each other in the eyes of your family and friends, your religion or culture - and the law.
It’s a big step so you need to think carefully whether it’s right for you. Most people who choose to get married say it's one of the happiest days of their life.
What does the law say?
The law on marriage in England and Wales says that the youngest age at which you can marry is 16 – but you must have your parent’s permission. When you’re 18 you can marry without your parent’s permission.
The law also says that both of the people who’re getting married must agree to it.
I’ve heard of arranged marriages and forced marriages… what’s the difference?
Arranged marriages are popular in some cultures and are not the same thing as a forced marriage.
In an arranged marriage, two families might come together and discuss the marriage with the two people involved. The parents then let the two people choose whether they want to get married or not.
In a forced marriage, the two people getting married do not have any choice - either the bride or the groom is being forced into it. The force might not be physical - it might be verbal or even emotional. Often the person is made to feel very guilty about not wanting to take part in the wedding.
Being forced to marry someone against your will is wrong. If this is happening to you, or a friend or relative, there are people who can help you. You can speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser at your local Connexions Centre or contact the Forced Marriage Unit (see below for details). Remember, if you’re in immediate danger, then you should phone the police straight away on 999.
Helplines / Websites:
Foreign and Commonwealth Office - Forced marriage unit
If you’ve been forced into marriage overseas or think you’re at risk of being forced into marriage or you’re worried about a friend or relative – you can talk to a trained professional who can help you work out a plan of action. Phone the Forced Marriage Unit on 0207 008 0151 (if you’re overseas, phone 0044 20 7008 0151.) You can also email the Forced Marriage Unit on fmu@fco.gov.uk or get information on their website in English, Arabic or Urdu.
www.forcedmarriage.nhs.uk
This website is for professionals and members of the public who’re looking to understand the issues around forced marriage. There’s useful information on what to do if you or someone you know is concerned they may be forced into marriage. (Please note - if you’re worried about other people finding out you’ve visited the site, there are instructions on how you can cover your tracks.)
Karma Nirvana
This organisation offers support, information and help with re-housing to victims of forced marriages, domestic violence and honour based crimes. It also offers a bi-lingual service. Phone their confidential helpline on 01332 604098
Childline
Provides help and advice to young people on all matters including abuse, exploitation, and forced marriage. Phone their helpline on 0800 1111 any time of day or night. Calls are free from a landline (and currently from all the existing networks, including 3, BT Mobile, Fresh, O2, Orange, T Mobile, Virgin, and Vodafone). Calls don’t show up on any of these bills. (Please note there is a ‘Cover your tracks’ facility if you don’t want your visits to this website to show on your computer’s history.)
