Why summer may be a dangerous time

Sir Cliff Richard's iconic song "Summer Holiday" talks about fun and laughter and having no worries for a week or two.

And that is what the summer months should be about; a chance to recharge batteries, and for youngsters, an opportunity to unwind following exams and a hectic school year.

Many Asian families decide to take a holiday to visit family back home and it is a chance for some to reconnect with the cultural aspects of their parents.

But it seems that this period is dangerous time for those youngsters who are at risk of forced marriages according to one long time campaigner on the issue.

Jasvinder Sanghera set up the Karma Nirvana charity in 1993 to raise awareness and provides help and assistance to anyone who fall victim to forced marriages.

But despite the issue making the national agenda, Sanghera says it is still widespread and fears that "thousands of girls will not return to the UK after the summer holidays."

The government recognises the problem and in 2006, set up the Forced Marriages Unit (FCU), a joint initiative between the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Home Office.

The FCU offers advice and assistance and works with embassies abroad to rescue victims who have been held captive or forced into marriage.

Forced marriages should not be confused with arranged marriages, which are custom in many cultures, especially from the Indian subcontinent.

An arranged marriage is one where both parties consent to the assistance of their parents or a third party in finding a partner to marry.

But figures from the FCU show that around 70% of the 1,735 possible forced marriage cases it dealt with around the world in 2010 involved people from a south Asian background.

Some believe that there are plenty of victims who are too afraid to speak out due to the fear of dishonouring their families.

But Sanghera says a strong campaign which doesn’t place the victims at fault will help empower them to be brave and speak out.

Click here to read Jasvinder Sanghera's thoughts on the issue