In the Queen’s speech on 11th May 2021, Queen Elizabeth II announced the Government’s plans to ban conversion therapy in the UK.

Following the Queen’s Speech, Liz Truss (Minister for Women & Equalities) confirmed that the Government will take legislative steps to ban conversion therapy. Liz Truss stated, “We want to make sure that people in this country are protected, and these proposals mean nobody will be subjected to coercive and abhorrent conversion therapy.“ The government also plans to offer “substantial help” to LGBTQ+ people who have been victim to conversion therapy.

While this a great step forward, unfortunately it is not a quick process and it is likely to face opposition on a variety of fronts, particularly religion.

Stonewall, the LGBTQ charity, said: “The UK Government must publish a full and comprehensive Bill that bans conversion practices in all forms, for all people and in all settings, including religious and faith-based settings, and that provides statutory support for victims and survivors.”

What is Conversion Therapy?

Conversion Therapy refers to attempts and practices to alter someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity, which can involve electro shock, physical and sexual abuse and prayer. Movies that have covered this topic include ‘The Miseducation of Cameron Post’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’.

Have you been a victim of Conversion Therapy? Contact us if you would like to share your story.