Buffer zones around abortion clinics in England and Wales are set to be implemented at the end of October. The legislation, which aims to prevent women from facing harassment outside clinics, was approved by MPs over a year ago. The delay in enforcing the buffer zones under the previous Conservative government was due to debates over silent prayer. Supporters of the safe access zones raised concerns that allowing silent prayer could weaken the law, while anti-abortion groups argued that banning it would infringe on their freedom of expression and religious beliefs.
The new law, part of the Public Order Act that received royal assent on May 2, 2023, prohibits protests within 150 metres of clinics or hospitals providing abortion services. The Home Office has announced that the buffer zones will come into effect from October 31. It will be illegal for individuals to intentionally or recklessly influence someone’s decision to use abortion services, obstruct them, or cause harassment or distress to those using or working at such premises. Silent prayer may also fall within the scope of prohibited activities.
Guidance on enforcing the law will be issued in the coming weeks by the College of Policing and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to ensure consistency. Perpetrators convicted under this law could face an unlimited fine. Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips emphasised the importance of ensuring women’s access to abortion services without fear of harassment, abuse, or intimidation. Women’s health minister Baroness Merron echoed these sentiments, stating the priority is the safety and wellbeing of women seeking abortion services.
Advocates for the buffer zones, such as Heidi Stewart from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (Bpas) and Louise McCudden from MSI Reproductive Choices, welcomed the move as a means to protect women and healthcare workers. However, Catherine Robinson from Right To Life UK expressed concerns that the zones could eliminate vital support provided by volunteers outside abortion clinics. In Scotland, a similar ban on protests or vigils near abortion clinics is set to take effect on September 24, while safe access zones were implemented at health service locations offering abortion services in Northern Ireland in September 2023.
The introduction of buffer zones is seen as a significant step towards ensuring the safety and dignity of individuals accessing abortion services. The enforcement of these zones reflects the government’s commitment to upholding women’s rights and protecting them from harassment and intimidation while seeking healthcare.