It's Still Legal: The fight to ban Conversion Practices in the UK
– 2 min read
Despite years of promises and mounting public pressure, conversion practices - often misleadingly called “conversion therapy” - remain legal in the UK. These practices aim to suppress or change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, and are widely condemned by medical and psychological professionals as unethical and harmful.
Already outlawed in more than 20 countries, conversion practices range from pseudo-scientific counselling and prayer sessions to more extreme forms such as exorcisms and forced marriages. While some violent acts may already be prosecutable under existing laws, many non-violent but psychologically damaging practices continue unchecked.
The UK government’s own research has linked these practices to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation among LGBTQ+ individuals. Yet, legislative action has been repeatedly delayed.
LGBTQ+ conversion therapy has no scientific or therapeutic support whatsoever. It is about suppressing a person’s sexuality or gender identity.
The Conservative government first pledged to ban conversion therapy in 2018 under Theresa May. Boris Johnson echoed the commitment in 2020, calling the practice “abhorrent.” However, progress stalled amid consultations and internal disagreements - particularly over whether the ban should include protections for trans people.
In 2022, a draft proposal excluded trans individuals, sparking outrage among campaigners. Critics argue that any ban excluding trans people is not a genuine ban at all.
Religious lobbying has also played a role. Some faith groups argue that a ban could infringe on religious freedoms or prevent pastoral care. But most professional bodies, including the British Psychological Society and NHS England, support a comprehensive ban that distinguishes between supportive therapy and harmful conversion practices.
At the forefront of the movement is l Stonewall, alongside the Ban Conversion Therapy Coalition, chaired by activist Jayne Ozanne.
Veteran campaigner Peter Tatchell has been particularly vocal. In a statement, he said: “LGBTQ+ conversion therapy has no scientific or therapeutic support whatsoever. It is about suppressing a person’s sexuality or gender identity.
"All too often it leads to mental and emotional damage. It is about attempting to exorcise an integral part of who a person is. Moreover, it doesn’t work. In short, it is fraudulent quackery, as well as being inherently abusive."
Tatchell has also criticised the Labour government for its lack of action since taking office in 2024, stating that “inaction is not neutral” and warning that delays embolden those who believe LGBTQ+ people need to be “fixed.”
Labour’s Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson, has promised a trans-inclusive ban. But as of August 2025, no draft legislation has been published.
