UK Conversion Practices Bill: What Churches Need to Know
Written by Sunny Unachi on 1st November 2026
The proposed Conversion Practices Bill in the UK is attracting renewed attention from Christian organisations, church leaders and religious freedom campaigners as Parliament begins examining the legislation and its potential implications for churches and pastoral ministry.
On October 26, 2026, a joint parliamentary committee published a call for evidence inviting individuals and organisations to submit their views on the draft legislation. The committee has been tasked with examining the proposed law, identifying areas that require clarification and considering how it can protect people from abusive conversion practices while respecting other fundamental rights.
The draft bill, published by the Government in June and subsequently updated, proposes new criminal offences relating to abusive practices intended to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It also includes provisions for conversion practice protection orders.
For Christian communities, the debate centres on how the proposed law will distinguish between abusive practices and ordinary expressions of religious belief, pastoral support, prayer and conversations about Christian teaching.
Some evangelical organisations have expressed concern that poorly defined provisions could create uncertainty for ministers, parents and church members seeking to offer guidance in accordance with their religious convictions. They argue that people should remain free to seek prayer, discuss their beliefs and receive voluntary pastoral support without fear that ordinary Christian ministry could be interpreted as a criminal offence.
At the same time, supporters of legislation against conversion practices maintain that people must be protected from coercion, abuse and harmful attempts to change or suppress their identity.
The parliamentary committee has acknowledged the importance of striking an appropriate balance, particularly around the definitions and scope of the proposed offences.
Written submissions are due by November 16, 2026. The outcome of the scrutiny process could influence how the legislation is amended before it proceeds through Parliament.
For churches across England and Wales, the discussion is significant. Beyond the legal questions, it raises important considerations about pastoral responsibility, safeguarding, religious freedom and how Christian communities support people with compassion and dignity.
The proposed legislation is still under parliamentary scrutiny and has not yet become law
