The government has produced guidance for social workers on how to deal with cases of forced marriage.

The Foreign Office currently receives 250 reports of forced marriages each year.

The guidelines refer to possible scenarios that a social worker may be confronted with, and how best to respond.

These include a definition of the differences between arranged marriages and forced marriages, "symptoms" of a possible case of forced marriage and who to refer certain cases to.

"We are delighted to be launching these social services guidelines today," said Foreign Office minister Baroness Symons.

"The guidelines are the product of two years of hard work and consultation.  They result from clear realisation that social workers will play one of the most crucial roles in tackling forced marriage over the coming years."

The move also has the backing of the Home Office.

"I would like today to restate the government's commitment to effective action to tackle domestic violence and forced marriage," said minister Baroness Scotland.

"I also congratulate the progress made so far and the determination to make further progress.  The government shares that determination."

The guidelines were written in conjunction with the Association of Directors of Social Services.

"We welcome these guidelines and are pleased to have played our part in developing them," said president Andrew Cozens.

"I know they will be welcomed too by practitioners dealing with these complex and sensitive matters.

"These guidelines provide important, practical advice as well as criminal and civil remedies. 

"The procedures emphasise the importance of social services working closely with the police, specialist supports unit and the Foreign Office Community Liaison Unit."