Press Release

Scotland’s ‘conversion practices’ ban harmful, unnecessary and impractical

The Scottish government has launched a consultation on its proposal to ban so-called ‘conversion practices relating to sexuality and gender.

It claims to target “any treatment, practice or effort that aims to change, suppress and/or eliminate a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression”.

Like other bans of ‘conversion practices’ or ‘conversion therapy’, it seeks to stop people who want to shape their own sexuality or gender expression. The proposals would particularly impact Christians who seek help as they seek to honour God with their bodies.

Andrea Williams, chief executive of Christian Concern said: “This unnecessary and damaging ban will prevent people from receiving the help they desperately want and need.

“The evidence shows that appropriate support from a counsellor, therapist, church or support group can be effective and typically improves people’s mental health.

“Forcing people who want to experience change to try to do so on their own is cruel and is more likely to cause them problems.

“The Scottish government should have the courage to admit that no new law in this area is needed and reverse this disastrous policy.”