Cultural Sensitivity and Forced Marriage: Exploring the Issues
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
For the first time, mental health professionals at the internationally renowned Tavistock and Portman Clinics are coming together with others to explore the complex issue of forced marriage. They will be joined by guest speaker, Jasvinder Sanghera, herself a high-profile survivor of early and forced marriage, ambassador for global children’s charity Plan UK’s ‘Take the Vow’ campaign to end early and forced marriage and founder of Karma Nirvana.
It is estimated that there are at least 5,000 to 8,000 cases of forced marriage in England every year. Many such marriages are of girls less than 18 years old and are associated with a wide range of psychological, family and developmental problems. But how do professionals in education, mental health, and children services respond to the needs of these young people and their families?
Thinking Space events, organised by the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, seek to promote thinking and discussion about important but culturally challenging issues in order to develop understanding and improve practice. This event will provide a safe opportunity for speakers and delegates to discuss the emotive and sensitive topic of forced marriage, which is live within the political arena and a subject of great debate.
Jasvinder said “Many of these victims cannot speak up for themselves. Rendered voiceless by cultural and language barriers, they are the men and women society forgot. The secret stain on the conscience of a nation which otherwise prides itself on much-lauded values of liberty, equality and opportunity for all.”
Jasvinder will talk about her personal experience, the research evidence and current practice and will explore the role and impact of 'cultural sensitivity' in addressing this issue.
• The Thinking space event will take place at the Tavistock Clinic on Thursday 28th June 2012 (6-8pm)
You can find more information on how to book a place at the event by clicking here
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