So-called conversion therapy — attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity — appears to be far more common than previously believed, according to a new study. Ben Gibbons, now 38, is among those who suffered its devastating effects. In his 20s, a church elder subjected him to disturbing rituals, including making himself vomit every time he had what the elder described as “impure thoughts.” This deeply damaging experience left Ben with long-term trauma, requiring years of therapy to recover.
Ben’s story echoes the findings of a recent survey conducted by Stonewall and Opinium, which found that 31% of LGBTQ+ respondents had experienced some form of conversion practice. The data paints a disturbing picture: 17% said they had been physically assaulted, 12% underwent pseudoscientific counseling, and 10% were subjected to exorcisms. Many were also threatened with homelessness for refusing to change.
For Ben, the abuse began under the guise of Bible studies. Over time, the elder exerted more control — dictating Ben’s clothing, hairstyle, and behavior in a misguided attempt to reinforce traditional masculinity. The forced self-harm — using bitter liquid as punishment — marked a breaking point, but it wasn’t until years later that Ben fully recognized the experience as conversion therapy. He was left battling depression and PTSD for more than a decade.
Another survivor, influencer Demitri Rodriguez, recalls being sent to a residential church camp at age 15 after he began exploring his gender identity. He was told he was “satanic” and witnessed exorcisms. Traumatised, he reverted to his birth identity until he turned 18 and was safe from being sent back. Now 25, he only recently revealed his story to his parents, leaving them devastated.
A 2017 government survey had estimated that only 2% of LGBTQ+ individuals had undergone conversion practices, but the new research suggests this number may have been vastly understated. Despite promises to outlaw such practices as early as 2018, UK legislation has faced repeated delays.
Currently, the government says it remains committed to introducing a draft bill to ban conversion practices before the end of the current parliamentary session. However, some worry that poorly defined legislation could criminalize legitimate care or discussion, such as parents or teachers asking questions.
Baroness Kishwer Falkner of the Equality and Human Rights Commission supports the ban, but stresses that it must be crafted with precision. She advocates for protections that preserve both human rights and the ability of professionals to provide medical or emotional support.
Stonewall CEO Simon Blake says the research underscores an urgent need for legal action. “These practices — telling people that who they are is wrong — must end,” he said. “This bill must be the moment the UK stands firmly on the side of dignity and inclusion.”
A government spokesperson reaffirmed: “Conversion practices are abuse — they have no place in our society. We are committed to stopping them with forthcoming legislation.”。