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.
Section: FGM
In defence of genital autonomy for children
Should we offer ‘mild’ female genital alteration in the manner of male circumcision as a safe alternative to FGM? This commentary was written in response to an opinion piece by two American gynaecologists that argued for de-minimise female genital alteration procedures as a safe alternative to FGM, in the manner of male circumcision.
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.
Prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation in England and Wales: National and local estimates
This report contains estimates of the numbers of women with female genital mutilation (FGM) living in England and Wales, the numbers of women with FGM giving birth and the numbers of girls born to women with FGM. Headline figures for England and Wales as a whole were published in an interim report.
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.
Working with community organisations to end FGM
Working with FGM survivors, communities affected by FGM and grass-roots organisations is vital in the work to end FGM and should be incorporated in all aspects of FGM prevention work.
FGM Mandatory Reporting Duty
Amendments to the Serious Crime Act 2015, mean that from October it becomes mandatory to report known cases of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) on girls under 18 to the police. The duty applies to all regulated professionals working within health, social care and education in England and Wales. “Known” cases of FGM are those when a child discloses to a professional that she’s had FGM or when a professional observes signs of FGM on a girl’s genitalia.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Practical Guidance for Ealing Schools
This guidance has been produced to promote the practical steps a school can take to make sure that everyone – including pupils, parents and staff – knows about Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and can play their role in safeguarding girls and young women from FGM.
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
REPLACE Approach: Supporting Communities to end FGM in the EU
The Replace Approach to ending FGM was developed over 5 years by a European partnership between Forward UK, Coventry University, FSAN (Netherlands), CESIE (ITALY), APF (Portugal) and Gabinet d’Estudis Socials (Spain). The work was funded by Daphne III action grants. REPLACE is based on the principle that ending FGM requires behaviour change on behalf of affected communities.