If you suspect a girl is at risk of Female Genital Mutilation

In March 2004, the new UK Female Genital Mutilation Act was introduced. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is prohibited by law in England, Scotland and Wales, whether it is committed against a United Kingdom national or permanent United Kingdom resident in the UK or abroad. FGM is an abuse of the human rights of girls and women and therefore a child protection issue.

If you suspect that any girl is at risk of being subjected to any form of FGM, take action to report it immediately!! Time counts so please act as soon as you suspect that a girl may be at risk of FGM, the instructions below tell you what to do.

To protect a girl from FGM you can take any of the following actions:

Ring your local Social Services Department - your Town Hall will have the number
Ring your local Police Child Protection Unit
Ring the NSPCC

Please also:

Ring FORWARD on 0208 960 4000 - we are open Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

If it comes to your attention or you suspect that a girl has already undergone FGM, do not think there is nothing you can do - call FORWARD immediately on 020 8960 4000. She will be in need of specialist care and support and if she has sisters they will be in need of protection.

FORWARD provides support, counselling and safe space for girls and women to talk about their experiences.
FORWARD also educates and works with families to prevent FGM happening to any other girls in the family.
FORWARD can provide access and support for girls and women needing specialist health services who are affected by FGM.

Do not let labels of 'tradition' 'culture' 'religion' or a fear of being called a 'racist' stop you from taking action to protect girls at risk of FGM, it is a violation of human rights!

If you need to discuss any concerns you have or you need support to take action to protect a girl at risk call FORWARD on the number below - Monday - Friday 9.30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

NB if the girl is at risk outside these hours - you must call any of the agencies above.

Further information about FGM and Child Protection

If you require Information and Resources on FGM and Child Protection, including the London Child Protection Procedures in respect to FGM click here for these resources.
If you are a community organisation, government agency or statutory sector professional that would be interested in receiving training on FGM and Child Protection click here to find out more.
If you cannot find the information you require on this website, or need any further any advice, information and support then please do not hesitate to contact FORWARD.

You can help

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