This article examines a case study of a school nurse’s involvement with a family at risk of FGM. Although the children were safeguarded appropriately, opportunities were missed to support the family to address the psychological impact of FGM. Specialist services designed to work with communities where FGM is practiced exist around the UK but are few in number and have limited resources.
Country: UK
FGM: Frequently Asked Questions. A Campaigner’s Guide for Young People
This guide gives easy to understand answers to the frequently asked questions on FGM. It is aimed at a young audience but the information can be used with a wider audience.
Guidance on refugee claims relating to FGM
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) provides guidance on the treatment of claims for refugee status relating to female genital mutilation (FGM). Under certain circumstances, a parent could also establish a well-founded fear of persecution, within the scope of the 1951 Convention refugee definition, in connection with the exposure of his or her child to the risk of FGM.
NHS Specialist Services for Female Genital Mutilation
The document provides a list of NHS Specialist services for survivors of Female Genital Mutilation. Women who have undergone Type 3 FGM can access de-infibulation services (opening up). The clinics provide services for both pregnant and non-pregnant women and some of the clinics also provide counselling and emotional support.
Information sharing: Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, parents and carers
Information sharing is vital to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. A key factor identified in many serious case reviews (SCRs) has been a failure by practitioners to record information, to share it, to understand its significance and then take appropriate action.
Tackling FGM in the UK: What works in Community-based prevention
Summary of the findings from the external evaluation of a 3-year initiative to tackle FGM through community-based prevention. Finds that rejection of FGM has increased in areas where community-based preventive work is taking place. Outlines the successful strategies employed by community groups and makes recommendations for policymakers.
In the best interests of the child: preventing female genital cutting (FGC) (Subscription to journal required)
Overview of the international literature exploring Female Genital Cutting (FGC). Addresses the prevalence of FGC, its cultural and social origins, effective prevention strategies, legislative responses and education and health promotion programmes. Authors argue that practitioners in Western countries should be equipped to assist practising communities to recognise the harm of FGC and to change attitudes and practices.
Voices of Women for Frontline Professionals
This leaflet has been produced by survivors of FGM who would like to communicate their needs to frontline professionals. It advocates a sensitive approach to addressing FGM and urges professionals to take time to research and understand the cultural justifications of FGM and avoid causing further harm to women affected by the practice.
FGM Risk and Safeguarding: Guidance for Health Professionals
Practical help to support NHS organisations developing new safeguarding policies and procedures for female genital mutilation (FGM). It can be used by health professionals from all sectors, particularly designated and named safeguarding leads, and local safeguarding children board members. Based on existing NHS best practice. Includes the Department of Health Risk Assessment Tool and Safeguarding Pathways
Underwear Rule (Lesson Plan)
This lesson plan contains everything you need for an hour-long lesson to teach children about the underwear rule and help to keep them safe. This is a general safeguarding and body rights and does not cover FGM specifically. Get together and singalong with Pantosaurus above to get the conversation started. This is a great tool to use with children to help them keep themselves safe.