A new study from LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall has revealed the shocking persistence of conversion therapy in the UK, despite years of promises to ban the practice. Conversion therapy, a discredited and harmful practice, claims to change a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation through abusive methods such as physical assault, forced prayer, and even “corrective rape.” The study found that 31% of queer respondents had experienced at least one form of conversion therapy.
Nearly one in five reported physical assaults, being forced to pray, or facing social exclusion. Over 10% said they had endured pseudo-scientific counseling, while others faced horrific acts like corrective rape, exorcisms, or being made to ingest “purifying” substances. Fifteen percent were even threatened with homelessness. Trans and non-binary people were particularly targeted, with 38% reporting physical assault and the same percentage facing exclusion from family, friends, and community.
Despite promises from successive UK governments, conversion therapy remains legal in the country. The Labour Party has pledged to ban it, but for many, the damage has already been done. The urgent call now is for a comprehensive ban that protects all LGBTQ people, ensuring justice for survivors and restoring the UK’s reputation as a champion of queer rights.
