Safe access buffer zones to be implemented for abortion clinics

The PSPO is now being reviewed with the introduction of buffer zones under the Public Order Act 2023, which come into force on 31 October 2024 as the government moves to bring in stronger safeguarding measures for women accessing these health services.

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.

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.

The activities prohibited under the current PSPO include:

• Protesting, namely engaging in any act or attempted act of approval or disapproval, with respect to issues related to abortion services, by any means. This includes but is not limited to graphic, verbal or written means, prayer or counselling,
• Interfering, or attempting to interfere, whether verbally or physically, with a Robert Clinic service user, visitor or member of staff,
• Intimidating or harassing, or attempting to intimidate or harass, a Robert Clinic service user, visitor or a member of staff,
• Recording or photographing a Robert Clinic service user, visitor or member of staff or,
• Displaying any text or images relating directly or indirectly to the termination of pregnancy.

If a person does not comply with the order they commit an offence, which could result in sanctions which include a fixed penalty notice, up to a level 3 fine.

Introducing abortion clinic safe access zones

This measure introduces safe access zones around abortion clinics, where interference with any person’s decision to access, provide, or facilitate the provision of abortion services within the 150-metre zone is an offence.

The police will have powers to enforce the safe access zones, and an offence will carry an unlimited fine.

Birmingham City Council Community Safety Team are working with West Midlands Police to ensure the transition of the PSPO to the buffer zones is completed so that there is no impact of staff and visitors to the clinic.

Counillor Nicky Brennan, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “It is important that women are not harassed when visiting the Robert Clinic for health care, as they deserve privacy and understanding during what must be a difficult time for them.

“Birmingham City Council welcomes the governments safeguarding measures for women who need access to this vital service which women should be able to use without intrusion or intimidation.

“The buffer zones will hopefully deter anyone from protesting, interfering or intimidating service users and make their visits easier to cope with.”

For more information about the PSPO, visit Birmingham City Council’s website.