Church of England warns conversion therapy ban must not ‘unintentionally criminalise’ prayer

The Church of England has urged the Government to ensure its proposed ban on conversion therapy does not unintentionally criminalise prayer or appropriate pastoral care. It supports action against coercive practices and abuse, while arguing that people who seek religious support should be able to discuss and pray about their beliefs freely.

The draft bill would make it a criminal offence to try to change someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Church leaders, including the Archbishop of Liverpool, say its wording could create uncertainty for lawful conversations and family life; LGBT+ campaigners, by contrast, argue that conversion practices cause harm. Jayne Ozanne told MPs that prayer aimed at making her straight was traumatic, while the Bishop of Manchester called the bill a positive step.