With you, making Surrey safer
CALL YOUR LOCAL POLICE 101. IN AN EMERGENCY ALWAYS 999

Honour based
crime

Awareness videos on YouTube

video screenshot showing Asian woman.

To raise awareness of the risks and the help available, three hard-hitting films have been developed. They remind young people to speak up if they think they or someone they are close to are in danger.

View on YouTube Right to choose: Spotting the signs of forced marriage videosLink to an external website.

Honour based violence

Honour based violence is a term used to justify abuse or violence. It is defined as an incident or crime which has or may have been committed to protect the honour of the family and or the community.

We do not accept this excuse for abuse or violence. There is no honour in inflicting hurt, pain or worse, in the name of protecting family pride.

Honour based violence is a contradiction in itself. It can not be justified in the name of honour.

Forced marriage

Forced marriage is where one or both spouses do not or can not consent to the marriage. Force is used by the family, friends or the community to get the person(s) to marry. If you know or suspect its happening – contact us. Everyone should have the right to marry who they want.

We recognise arranged marriage, and respect this traditional arrangement works for many communities. Forced marriage is entirely different, and it will not be allowed.

Forced marriage is covered by the law and can involve a range of criminal offences. We will act proportionately and with discretion.

Female genital mutilation

Female genital mutilation (FGM) includes procedures that intentionally alter or injure female genital organs for non-medical reasons. The procedure has no health benefits for girls or women. FGM is internationally recognised as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It is illegal to practice FGM in the UK.

Don’t suffer in silence…contact the Diversity Crimes Unit (DCU)

We are a dedicated team at Surrey Police that deal with honour based violence, forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

  • Contact us in confidence
  • We can ensure your safety
  • Your report will not show on the Police National Computer
  • We use discretion when dealing with sensitive family issues
  • We are professional and specialise in these cases

Call us: 01483 639673
Email us: diversitycrimesunit@surrey.pnn.police.uk

  • If you have decided that you want to leave the family we can help you find a place of safety – if you have children we will also ensure that they are safe and protected
  • If criminal offences have been committed against you and you wish for those responsible to be dealt with – we will pursue them through the courts
  • If you want to remain with your family – we will do our utmost to support you

» Read about Nadia's story who was a victim of honour based crime