Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM is a practice that is deeply ingrained in the culture of some communities, and it’s only through working in partnership with these communities, educating and empowering them to develop their own solutions, that we can build confidence and increase reporting so that we have a true picture of the impact and can direct resources where they are needed most.

Finding help and advice

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures involving the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or any other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Whilst FGM is often seen as an act of love by the family, it causes  severe long-term physical and emotional harm to the girls and women affected by it. Despite being illegal in the UK, there are approximately 137,000 girls and women in England and Wales who have undergone this procedure. FGM is considered a hidden crime in our communities.

Watch the video below to hear directly from survivors of FGM, faith leaders, and health professionals:

If you are affected by FGM, or know someone who is, there are a number of organisations that can help:

• NSPCC FGM Helpline: 0800 028 3550 or help@nspcc.org.uk 

Information on signs of FGM, and how to prevent and protect children can be found here:

• NSPCC: www.nspcc.org.uk/fgm
• Follow this link for leaflets about FGM in other languages: FGM on the NHS website
• Download our FGM leaflet here

Resources for teachers and parents:

• Safe 4 Me website: www.safe4me.co.uk