Child abuse linked to faith or belief

Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief (CALFB) refers to abuse that arises from beliefs in witchcraft, spirit possession, or other supernatural forces. It includes harmful practices such as:

• accusations of being possessed or a witch 
• ritualistic abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual)
• exorcism attempts involving violence
• use of fear of the supernatural to control or exploit children (e.g., trafficking) 

According to the UK Government’s National Action Plan, CALFB is not about challenging personal beliefs, but about addressing situations where those beliefs lead to harm. Abuse may occur in any faith or cultural context and is not limited to specific religions or communities. 

CALFB can manifest in all categories of abuse:

• physical abuse: Beating, burning, cutting, tying up, or applying harmful substances (e.g. chilli peppers on eyes/genitals).  
• emotional abuse: Isolation, threats of abandonment, or convincing a child they are possessed. 
• neglect: Denial of medical care, education, or basic needs due to belief-based practices. 
• sexual abuse: Exploitation under the guise of spiritual control or rituals.

CALFB often arises when families experience misfortune—such as illness, death, or behavioural issues—and seek explanations through spiritual or supernatural beliefs. Vulnerable children may be scapegoated as the cause of these misfortunes. In some cases, women are accused first, with children becoming secondary victims. 

Common belief systems associated with CALFB include:

• spirit possession
• witchcraft 
• the evil eye, djinns, dakini, kindoki, obeah, and voodoo 
• satanic or ritual abuse  
• being cursed or bringing bad luck  
• having supernatural powers  
• being controlled by evil forces

These beliefs may be deeply held by families, carers, or religious leaders, and can lead to attempts to ‘exorcise’ or ‘deliver’ the child from perceived evil.  

CALFB is under-reported but increasingly recognised. The Children in Need Census 2024 recorded 2,180 cases where CALFB was identified as a factor in child assessments. This reflects a growing awareness and improved reporting mechanisms, though many cases likely remain hidden.

One of the most pivotal UK cases of Child Abuse Linked to Faith and Belief was the murder of Victoria Climbié in 2000. Victoria was subjected to extreme abuse by her guardians, who believed she was possessed. Despite multiple contacts with statutory services and church staff and volunteers, no effective intervention occurred. Her death led to the Laming Inquiry, which exposed systemic failures and resulted in major reforms, including the Introduction of the Children Act 2004 – mostly applicable to England and Wales.

CALFB is now recognised under the broader category of harmful traditional practices, but some experts advocate for clearer terminology—such as spirit possession, witchcraft, and ritualistic abuse—to highlight the ‘supernatural’ characteristics.

Possible indicators include:

• unexplained injuries or neglect  
• withdrawal or fearfulness, especially around family or community members
• ritualistic behaviour or language  
• isolation from peers or community  
• pressure to undergo exorcisms or spiritual ‘cleansing’
• sudden changes in behaviour or school performance

Responding Well to Concerns About CALFB  

• listen and believe the child or young person. Avoid dismissing their experiences as cultural misunderstandings.  
• record concerns accurately, including language used and any observed behaviours.  
• avoid assumptions about culture or faith. Focus on the child’s safety and wellbeing.  
• speak to your Safeguarding Lead and escalate concerns.  
• use trauma-aware approaches and avoid retraumatising the child through disbelief or minimisation.  

Harmful traditional practices and the subcategory of child abuse linked to faith and belief must be understood as part of the wider spectrum of violence against women and children. 

To respond effectively, staff and volunteers should:  

• recognise the complexity of abuse  
• centre survivor voices  
• find specialist training and services