Forced marriage depicted in animated NSPCC film

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has told the BBC Asian Network that children as young as 12 who refuse to be forced into marriage are being threatened with violence.

Latest figures from its Childline service show the number of children who are worried about it has nearly trebled in the last two years. Some are frightened, depressed and even suicidal.

The charity has made an animated film to warn children about the issue. It is being launched to coincide with the introduction of a new law against forced marriage in England and Wales.

The government's forced marriage unit said 40% of cases reported last year involved children under the age of 18 (around 500).

ChildLine is open at any time on 0800 1111 or on the web http://www.childline.org.uk/

  • UK