What is conversion therapy ban?

A conversion therapy ban would make it illegal to try to change or suppress someone's sexual orientation or gender identity through abusive practices. In June 2026 the UK government published a draft Conversion Practices Bill for England and Wales. It covers sexual orientation and transgender identity, with penalties of up to five years in prison.

Conversion practices range from talking therapies and religious rituals to coercion and abuse. Major medical and counselling bodies say they do not work and can cause lasting psychological harm. Successive UK governments have promised a ban since 2018, but disagreements over scope, particularly gender identity, delayed it. Scotland has consulted on its own ban, and different rules may apply there.

The draft bill, published on 25 June 2026, would create a criminal offence of carrying out abusive conversion practices that cause serious harm. It would cover England and Wales, and include practices aimed at changing a person's sexual orientation or transgender identity. Courts could issue protection orders for people at risk. The maximum penalty would be an unlimited fine, up to five years in prison, or both.

The government says legitimate healthcare, open conversations and the expression of beliefs would not be criminalised. The draft bill now faces pre-legislative scrutiny before being formally introduced. Supporters say a ban is overdue to protect LGBT people. Some critics fear it could chill therapy or religious practice, while others argue it should go further. The final bill may differ. Consultation responses will shape it.