Today, the Government has announced that Safe Access Zones will be implemented around abortion clinics in England and Wales from 31 October 2024. This will make it against the law to influence, harass or provoke those using or delivering pregnancy termination services.
RCOG President Dr Ranee Thakar said:
“We are pleased that the government has announced a date for the implementation of safe access zones around abortion clinics. For too long abortion clinics have been without these vital protections, leaving women and healthcare professionals subject to intimidation by anti-choice groups.
“Everyone has the right to access healthcare services without judgement, or fear of harassment, and access to safe abortion is no exception. Abortion care is an essential sexual and reproductive health service, and safe access zones are vital in ensuring that the privacy and rights of those who access these services are respected.”
Safe access zones will be implemented in England and Wales via an amendment to the Public Order Act 2023. The change will bring England and Wales in line with Scotland, where Safe Access Zones come into force next Tuesday 24 September.
The previous government attempted to allow silent prayer within the Safe Access Zones as a form of exemption via a non-statutory consultation. The College is calling for the College of Policing and Crown Prosecution Service guidelines for police and prosecutors not to permit silent prayer as an exemption. This unacceptable barrier to accessing abortion care would not be tolerated for any other area of healthcare.
For more information on abortion in the UK see Abortion care | RCOG