New Legislation Targets ‘Conversion Therapies’ with Severe Penalties
Individuals found guilty of engaging in abusive practices aimed at changing a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity could soon face up to five years in prison and unlimited fines. This significant development is part of a long-anticipated draft law finally unveiled, aiming to outlaw these discredited practices after years of delays.
Often mislabeled as “gay cure therapy,” these practices typically involve attempts to suppress an individual’s innate sexuality or gender identity. Government officials have stated that a criminal threshold will be established, focusing on conduct that includes abusive acts causing serious harm to victims. Reports indicate that some individuals have recounted experiences of extreme abuse, including beatings, rape, and even exorcisms.
Legislative Action Follows Years of Advocacy
The proposed Conversion Practices Bill, which will apply to England and Wales, represents a commitment made in a recent political manifesto. Prior research conducted during a previous administration highlighted the prevalence of these practices, with approximately 18% of LGBT+ individuals in the UK reporting attempts to change or “cure” them.
Evidence from an LGBT+ anti-abuse charity suggests that such harmful practices are not confined to the past. Analysis of 195 cases handled by their support services between 2022 and 2025 revealed that more than two-thirds were recent or ongoing. The government’s Office for Equality and Opportunity has also raised concerns, warning that these abhorrent practices continue and involve physical, sexual, economic, and psychological abuse.
Ministerial Statement on Protection and Commitment
Olivia Bailey, the Minister for Equalities, stated that conversion practices stem from the damaging misconception that being LGBT+ is something to be ashamed of and can be forcibly altered. “No-one should face abuse just because of who they are,” Bailey affirmed. “That’s why we are delivering on our manifesto commitment to ban abusive conversion practices. Legal loopholes have left LGBT+ people vulnerable to these harmful acts, which is why we must legislate.”
Professional and Religious Bodies Welcome the Ban
The publication of the Bill has been welcomed by various professional bodies and religious organizations. Professor Subodh Dave, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, expressed support for the legislation, emphasizing its importance in protecting individuals from these harmful practices while also ensuring healthcare professionals can continue to engage in appropriate exploratory conversations with their patients.
Jasmine O’Connor, co-chief executive of Galop, highlighted the devastating impact of conversion practices and noted that existing legal gaps have left LGBT+ individuals unprotected against covert and insidious forms of abuse. “We welcome this long-overdue legislation – it’s a vital first step toward addressing conversion practices as a distinct form of harm,” O’Connor commented.
The Bishop of Manchester, David Walker, speaking on behalf of the Church of England, which previously voted in favor of a ban, described the Bill as a “positive step” towards ending practices that have caused significant harm and lifelong trauma to LGBT+ individuals over many years.
