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.
Profession: Social Care
Discussing FGM with pupils in primary schools
The issue of how to approach the topic of FGM with a younger age group in primary schools was one St Werburgh’s Primary School and Integrate Bristol was determined to address, particularly as they are more vulnerable.
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.
The Children in Need Census 2016/17
This report from the Department for Education, contains information regarding children referred to and assessed by children’s social services for the year ending 31 March 2017. This includes cases where FGM and Abuse Linked to Faith and Belief were identified.
FGM Protection Orders
FGM protection orders (FGMPO) offer a legal means to protect and safeguard victims and potential victims of FGM. You can apply for a protection order if you or someone you know is at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM). This will help to keep you (or the person you know) safe from another person (the ‘respondent’). Someone else (eg from a local authority) can also apply for a protection order on your behalf.
Understanding Breast “Ironing”: A study of the methods, motivations and outcomes of Breast Flattening in Cameroon
This report presents the findings of research examining the practice of breast ironing or breast flattening in Cameroon. Breast ironing or flattening is a practice common in Cameroon and throughout West Africa whereby an object is used to massage, pound, or press the breasts flat. This report presents a summary of findings from original fieldwork and a review of unpublished academic reports and one quantitative study conducted in all ten regions of Cameroon by GIZ in 2005
Keeping your girls safe from FGM (Leaflet)
This leaflet is for parents to help raise awareness of FGM and the law, especially around the holiday season.
FGM and Islam (Leaflet)
This is a leaflet produced by FORWARD that can be given to families who believe FGM is an Islamic requirement.
KS3 Lesson Plans – FGM
These lesson plans have been written to raise awareness of the practice of FGM and to inform young people of the facts and issues, and how and where to get help if they need to. In order to inform and facilitate the exploration of attitudes around FGM, it is important for young men as well as young women to take part in these lessons.
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.