Forced marriage models too narrow

In its response to draft government guidance on forced marriage, BASW said that the multi-agency public protection arrangements (Mappa) model focuses on the risk posed by individuals rather than the risk "to an individual posed by a complex of social circumstances".

It said the multi-agency risk assessment conference (Marac) model was "potentially better" but the focus was still on a single risky individual rather than a situation that poses a high risk.

BASW said the government should use the Marac model instead, backed up by an assessment framework to identify needs and plan care options.

The government's draft guidance sets out the strategic responsibilities of agencies involved with handling cases of forced marriage. The consultation period has now finished and the new guidance will come into force in November.

BASW also used its response to criticise the decision not to outlaw forced marriage, a move it said would have "acted as a strong deterrent in some cases with appropriate penalties". It would also like to have seen the guidance include an automatic annulment of forced marriage.