Banning conversion therapy – a response by the Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF)

Whilst we accept, and deeply regret, that there have been historic examples of abusive and coercive methods, we also note that recent research carried out by academics from Coventry University’s Faculty of Health and Life Science and commissioned by the Government Equalities Office (GEO) as part of its LGBT Action Plan, found no evidence that such practices still occur in the UK, nor have done so in the last 20 years.

What the study did identify was a mixture of psychological and spiritual methods – talking therapies and pastoral support/counselling – but nothing that would justify the tone and language of the opening remarks in the consultation document. Whilst we understand that there is political pressure to describe ‘conversion therapy’ in such negative terms, we strongly urge the government to avoid the use of terms for which their own research has found no supporting evidence base.

Read the full submission here

For further information:

Steven Fouch (CMF Head of Communications) 020 7234 9668

Media Enquiries:

Alistair Thompson on 07970 162 225

About CMF:

Christian Medical Fellowship (CMF) was founded in 1949 and is an interdenominational organisation with over 5,000 doctors, 900medical and nursing students and 300 nurses and midwives as members in all branches of medicine, nursing and midwifery. A registered charity, it is linked to over 100 similar bodies in other countries throughout the world.

CMF exists to unite Christian healthcare professionals to pursue the highest ethical standards in Christian and professional life and to increase faith in Christ and acceptance of his ethical teaching.