As the process of producing my MMP draws to a close I thought I would take this time to highlight how people can help end the harassment and intimidation outside abortion clinics.
In 2014, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) set up the campaign titled 'Back Off'.
The movement was set up to help protect clinics from anti-abortion activity and push for legislation which allows buffer zones to be put in place to protect women and staff.
"Recently, NHS staff on premises where a clinic is located have felt so intimidated by the presence outside they have asked for the abortion service to be withdrawn. The closure of a service as a result of anti-abortion activity would be unprecedented." -BPAS
Over the years 'Back Off' has gained an immense amount of support from organisations like Mumsnet, Women's Aid and the British Medical Association.
There are multiple ways for individuals to also show their support:
You can share your own experience with protesters (anonymously if you wish)
Set up a local resident group - contact Sister Supporter directly if you would like to find out the best ways to campaign in your local area: contact@sistersupporter.co.uk.
Write to your local MP
"These people have every right to campaign for greater restrictions on women’s reproductive choices and there are plenty of opportunities and locations in which to do so. However the space immediately outside a clinic should not be one of them." - Back Off
The map below details anti-abortion protest activity reported outside clinics in the UK from 2017 onwards.
Map created by BPAS
Ultimately women and staff at abortion clinics want to be able to access abortion clinics without the fear of being confronted by protesters.
"The right to protest needs to be balanced with the right of pregnant women to obtain advice and treatment in confidence and free from intimidation. "