This briefing highlights what breast ironing is, the consequence (legally, physically and emotionally), the law in the UK, key research on the practice and the reasons why families may practice it. MP Jake Berry used this for a speech in parliament about the issue.
Country: UK
Good practice for working with faith communities and places of worship: spirit possession and abuse.
Discusses how faith based communities should respond and work in partnership with the local community to curb practices such as spiritual possession and witchcraft. Explains the responsibilities of faith groups under government guidance.
Survivors Voices – Video
Journalist and broadcaster Susan Bookbinder talks with four women about how they would like to see professionals hold sensitive conversations about female genital mutilation, including what actions to take to safeguard vulnerable girls.
What is FGM – Video
Video produced by NHS Choices that covers what FGM is, the 4 types of FGM and the consequences of the practice.
Safeguarding Girls from FGM: Teacher / Trainer Guide
This guide, developed by 28 Too Many, is aimed at teachers and helps them understand safeguarding of children in general, and from FGM in particular. This workshop covers the following topics: What is Safeguarding?, Safeguarding Legislation; The UNCRC and The African Charter, Safeguarding Issues in your community and the 4 P’s of Safeguarding.
FGM Legislation in the UK – Infographic
A one-page infographic that highlights the key pieces of legislation in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. This includes information on Mandatory Reporting Duties, FGM Specific Laws and the Serious Crime Act 2015.
Commissioning services to meet the needs of women and girls with Female genital mutilation (FGM)
This document contains recommendations for commissioners to make sure services meet the needs of women and girls with Female genital mutilation (FGM) and to safeguard those at risk. This includes top 10 recommendations for commissioning quality services.
Eradicating Female Genital Mutilation: A UK Perspective (Book)
This handbook details the present situation with regard to female genital mutilation (FGM) in Britain, referring also to other Western nations where FGM occurs. It scrutinises current pathways to eradicating this dangerous, sometimes lethal, form of child abuse and gender-related violence. The cultural and belief systems giving rise to FGM are complex. Further, FGM is an intensely intimate matter often imposed on young and vulnerable children. Approaches to its eradication therefore demand considerable human insight and a competent grasp of inter-/cross-agency working.The vulnerabilities and need for protection of victims and potential victims are paramount, but these pressing priorities do not lessen the requirement that all aspects of FGM be dealt with straightforwardly in accordance with the law.
Breast Flattening Map
This map covers where Breast Ironing/Flattening is recorded to happen. This map has been developed from the study “Understanding Breast “Ironing”: A Study of the Methods, Motivations, and Outcomes of Breast Flattening Practices in Cameroon” by Rebecca Tapscott, 2012.
Statement on the first FGM Conviction
This is the statement from the National FGM Centre regarding the first FGM conviction in the UK. Click ‘Read More’ to find out more about the case.