Page 40 - Getting it Right for Vulnerable Children and Young People in North Ayrshire

Honour based violence Honour based violence is first and foremost a child protection issue. If you have any concerns at all that a child or young person may have been subject to, or is at risk of, honour based violence, you should follow your organisation’s child protection procedures and contact social services and the police without delay. Definition ‘Honour Crime’, Honour based violence and ‘Izzat’ describe crimes of violence where the individual is being punished by their family or community for undermining the family. Brief Overview This may include: • physical abuse • sexual violence • forced marriage • imprisonment • murder The family or community may perceive that the individual’s behaviour contravenes their ‘norm’ and that the person does not conform to held/proscribed standards, reflecting poorly on them. Perpetrators may feel justified to resort to honour crimes to protect and restore the honour of their family and community. How to Respond The issues described in this section at times may pose a greater level of complexity than is apparent. The following are good practice perspectives. • See the victim on their own – even if he / she is accompanied by others • See them immediately in a secure and private place where you will not be overheard • Reassure them about confidentiality (in line with your organisation’s policy) and • explain that you will not give information to their family/friends or community • Accept what they say. • Explain all the options to them and their possible outcomes • Recognise and respect their wishes • Assess the risk she / he faces by conducting a thorough risk assessment • Contact, as soon as possible, the lead worker responsible for forced marriage • (If she is under 16, refer to child protection inter-agency guidance; If she is an adult at risk, discuss with your adult support and protection lead and refer to inter- agency guidance) Getting It Right For Vulnerable Children and Young People in North Ayrshire Live V1.2 April 2014 Page No:40