03/10/2025
GOOD NEWS
The Ministry of Justice have issued a press release announcing plans for wedding law reform. This is GOOD NEWS for Independent Celebrants for THREE reasons:
The Press Release states:
‘Planned changes follow Law Commission recommendations from July 2022…’ Note: The Law Commission report specifically made recommendations that independent celebrants be included in the groups able to perform legally binding ceremonies
Changes are intent on “..making it more straightforward for couples to have legally binding religious ceremonies - including Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist and Hindu weddings - and allow non-religious groups, such as Humanists, to conduct legally binding ceremonies for the first time. Independent Celebrants fall into ‘non-religious’ groups.
MISREPORTED
Sadly in some social media, the details have been mis-reported implying Humanists only will be able to conduct legally binding weddings.
However The Daily Mail have written an accurate report – here is a quote from David Barrett – Home affairs Editor
‘The Government has outlined what is described as the biggest overhaul to marriage law since the 19th century. It will also allow non-religious groups to stage legally binding marriage ceremonies…’
What you can do
✅Please comment on any social media to correct any misrepresentation and state “It will allow non-religious groups to conduct legally binding ceremonies’.
And if you so wish do speak with your local MP about the benefits of this.
I certainly will be!!
