Protection zones around abortion clinics will be in force from 31
October, as the government moves to bring in stronger safeguards
for women accessing this vital health service.
Safe access buffer zones will make it illegal for anyone to do
anything that intentionally or recklessly influences someone's
decision to use abortion services, obstructs them, or causes
harassment or distress to someone using or working at these
premises. The law will apply within a 150 metre radius of the
abortion service provider.
Anyone found guilty of breaking the law will face an unlimited
fine. The College of Policing and Crown Prosecution Service will
publish guidance for police and prosecutors ahead of 31 October,
to ensure there is clarity and consistency with the enforcement
of the new offence.
Safeguarding Minister said:
The right to access abortion services is a fundamental right for
women in this country, and no one should feel unsafe when they
seek to access this.
We will not sit back and tolerate harassment, abuse and
intimidation as people exercise their legal right to healthcare,
which is why we have fast-tracked this measure to get it up and
running without further delay.
For too long abortion clinics have been without these vital
protections, and this government is determined to do all we can
do to make this country a safer place for women.
, Minister for Patient
Safety, Women's Health and Mental Health said:
The safety and wellbeing of women accessing abortion services
remains our priority. No women should feel scared or
threatened when accessing these services, and it is only right
they are protected from any abuse or harassment.
This government will continue to work closely with NHS England,
abortion providers and the wider sector to ensure that women have
access to safe, high quality abortion services.
The relevant zones also need to be on or next to a public highway
or road, in an open space to which the public has access, or
within the area of land attached to an abortion clinic, or in a
location that is visible from any of those areas.
The measure applies to any clinics and private hospitals that are
approved under the Abortion Act 1967, and for any NHS hospital
that has given notification in the current or previous calendar
year that it has carried out abortions.
Safe access zones were introduced through the Public Order Act
2023, following a free vote in Parliament that received
cross-party support.
