Ritualistic abuse, witchcraft and spirit possession refer to forms of sexual abuse, harm, mistreatment, or exploitation inflicted on individuals – both children and adults – within the context of structured belief systems, rituals or practices that attribute supernatural significance to the abuse. These may involve coercion, violence, psychological manipulation, or exploitation, often justified by beliefs in spiritual forces, purification, or supernatural interventions.
Spirit possession: abuse linked to attempts to exorcise or deliver an individual believed to controlled by malevolent spirits.
Witchcraft: abuse resulting from accusations of causing harm through spiritual means, often linked to beliefs in spiritual power or misfortune.
Harmful ritual practices: structured or symbolic acts of violence believed to yield supernatural benefit (for example, forced spiritual healing ceremonies or ritual killings).
The National FGM Centre explains the practice in more detail here Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief – National FGM Centre.
The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) have published a learning briefing on case reviews involving witchcraft, spirit possession and ritualistic abuse in England and Wales. Witchcraft, spirit possession and ritualistic abuse (WSPRA) in serious case reviews (PDF)
The National FGM Centre has released two YouTube videos discussing child abuse linked to faith or belief. The first is an animation telling the story of young boy in the UK who was accused of witchcraft by his aunt and uncle; the second offers advice to professionals about how to work with children who have been accused of witchcraft. The National FGM Centre has more information on abuse linked to faith or belief.
Branded a witch - Mardoche's story (YouTube video)
Mardoche Yembi - advice for professionals (YouTube video)
If you have concerns that a girl or young woman may be taken overseas for FGM then please contact the FCO on 0207 008 1500 or email fgm@fco.gov.uk
Karma Nirvana - have lots of support for safeguarding professionals. They also offer a safe and confidential national helpline for those worried about HBA: Karma Nirvana Honour Network: 0800 5999 247
National FGM Centre
Exploring culture, faith and belief questions
Afruca – Safeguarding children publications
Honour Based Abuse Identification Tool from Karma Nirvana