Female Genital Mutilation, also known as female circumcision or female genital cutting, is an illegal practice, defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female.
From 31st October 2015 it is a duty for regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales to report known cases of FGM in under 18-year-olds to the police.
The Home Office has published procedural information for mandatory reporting on their website. You can download an FGM Mandatory Reporting Process Map for all professionals and another process map specifically for NHS staff.
The London Safeguarding Children Board has developed the London FGM Procedure and the London FGM Resource pack which provides guidance to professionals, volunteers and individuals.
London Safeguarding Children Board
Enfield has a protocol for FGM of children and young people.
Intercollegiate recommendations have also been published for identifying, recording and reporting FGM.
Intercollegiate recommendations
If you are concerned or suspect that someone is being taken abroad for purposes of FGM, please contact the national helpline or local organisations.
Female Genital Mutilation Helpline
The Female Genital Mutilation Helpline is a UK-wide service. It operates 24/7, and is staffed by specially trained child protection helpline counsellors who can offer advice, information, and assistance.
FGM Helpline: telephone 0800 028 3550 or contact by email.
FGM information, advice and support
NHS England webpage – Useful information about FGM, including facts, services, and the FGM Information Sharing System
NHS FGM webpage – A wide range of information and resources.
National FGM Centre – A partnership between Barnardo’s and the Local Government Association (LGA) to achieve a systems change in the provision of services for girls and women affected by female genital mutilation (FGM).
Home Office FGM online training (free)
Project ACEi – local organisation dedicated to eradicating FGM and supporting victims.
NSPCC – information on FGM from the NSPCC.
Samafal– local organisation working with Black and Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) Group women.
28 Too Many– charity working to end female genital mutilation (FGM).
