Consent is the central issue
A person must be genuinely free to accept or refuse. Emotional, psychological, financial, physical or other coercive consequences can remove meaningful choice.
Arranged marriage is different
Adults may choose a consensual arranged marriage in which families make introductions or arrangements while each person remains free to say no.
Children in England and Wales
Since 27 February 2023, the legal marriage and civil-partnership age is 18. Conduct intended to cause a child to marry can be criminal even if the child appears willing and no coercion is used.
Safeguarding response
Listen privately, take the concern seriously, do not contact or mediate with family, explain confidentiality limits and use the appropriate safeguarding or specialist route.