access Wolverhampton's Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy 2012-2015 at www.wdvf.org.uk
Information about the issue of forced marriage may have been provided to the victim by a friend, relative or other agency. The person concerned may not have thought that they were a victim of forced marriage and has only recently begun to question what is or has happened to them.
Alternatively the person may be seeking help as they know the intention is for their family to force them into marriage.
The primary concern is for the safety of the victim. The nature of forced marriage is such that agencies may have only one chance to respond to the needs of the victim. Ultimately to fail to do so will result in harm, and in some cases injury or death.
Potential warning signs include:
Extended absence from school/college, truancy, drop in academic performance, low motivation, excessive parental restriction and control of movements, and history of siblings leaving education early to marry
Poor attendance in the workplace, poor performance, parental control of income and limited career choices
Person talking about marriage, jewellery or wedding clothes
Family member raising concerns that a relative may be, or has been forced into marriage, or informing a professional that their relative is to be married.
Family member asking frontline professional to sign a passport application form or visa immigration form
Being taken away from the school or day centre, or out of the country, without explanation
Change in emotional or behavioural presentation, e.g. becoming anxious, depressed, frightened and emotionally withdrawn or exhibiting joy or excitement
Evidence of self-harm, treatment for depression, attempted suicide, social isolation, eating disorders or substance abuse
Evidence of family disputes/conflict, domestic violence/abuse or running away from home