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
Profession: Health
NHS Scotland Specialist Services for FGM
This service is for pregnant and non-pregnant women. They aim to see women two weeks after her booking scan (pregnant women) or 2 weeks after referral. They provide support for women with FGM, a de-infibulation service for women with Type III FGM and referral service for counselling.
Multi-agency statutory guidance on FGM
This multi-agency guidance on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) published in April 2016 should be read and followed by all persons and bodies in England and Wales who are under statutory duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. This document includes guidance on FGM and the law, talking about FGM and risk indicators.
Training Toolkit for Professionals Engaging with Minority Ethnic Culture and Faith
Training toolkit aimed at helping professionals to develop effective practices for protecting and promoting the welfare of children living in circumstances which appear to be complex because of their faith, culture or nationality. Topics covered include: female genital mutilation; children with disabilities; forced marriage; domestic violence; sexual exploitation; trafficked children.
FGM Clinics in the UK
A list containing the details of all the FGM Specialist clinics in the UK. These clinics may vary in services but many will offer the option of examining women to identify the type of FGM they have undergone.
UNICEF Data on FGM – Brochure
This UNICEF Brochure includes information on the practice of FGM across the world, including prevalence, changing attitudes and the work that UNICEF is doing to end the practice.
What is FGM? (Leaflet)
This leaflet has been created by the National FGM Centre to help educate professionals and families on Female Genital Mutilation. Topics include what FGM is, the consequences and what to do if you are worried.
Where has breast ironing/flattening been recorded to happen? (Map)
This map highlights the countries where research has shown Breast Ironing to be preavelent. Even though some countries are not highlighted, this does not mean Breast Ironing cannot happen there. Breast Ironing can happen anywhere in the world. This data is taken from Understanding Breast “Ironing” A study of methods, motivations and outcomes of breast flattening practices in Cameroon, Tapscott. R, 2012.
Provision for confirming suspected FGM in children
Confirmation that FGM has been carried out may be required as part of a safeguarding or criminal investigation and a timely appointment should be arranged for a physical examination as soon as possible.
Good FGM Referral Guide
This is a guide for professionals who are thinking about making a referral and what to know what information to include. This guide can also be used by safeguarding advisors who are looking to gather more information on a referral.