All procedures which involve the partial or total removal of the external genitalia or injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or an other non-therapeutic reasons. The World Health Organisation

“ You cannot change a culture but you can educate young people and make sure they do not carry on the tradition.”

 Offence to commit FGM.  Offence to aid, abet, counsel or procure a girl to commit FGM outside of UK that is carried out by a person who is not a UK national or resident.  Any act done outside UK by UK National or resident.

 Type 1 Excision (removal) of the clitoral hood with or without removal of part or all of the clitoris.  Type 2 Removal of the clitoris together with part or all of the labia minora.  Type 3 (infibulation) Removal of part or all of the external genitalia (clitoris, labia minora, and labia majora) and stitiching and or narrowing of the vaginal opening leaving a small hole for urine and menstrual flow.

 Type 4 (unclassified) All other operations on the female genitalia, including:  Pricking, piercing, stretching, or incision of the clitoris and/or labia;  Cauterisation by burning the clitoris and surrounding tissues;  Incisions to the viginal wall;  Scraping (angurya cuts) or cutting (gishiri cuts) of the vagina and surrounding tissues;  Introduction of corrosive substances or herbs into the vagina.

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 The child will be at risk of/experienced significant harm.  All definitions of abuse applicable –  Physical injury, neglect, emotional, sexual abuse (bullying, exploitation, domestic abuse.)  The physical and emotional impact of FGM will transcend into adulthood.  Female genital mutilation is a form of abuse.

 2 million girls around the world every year are mutilated.  Mainly African and Middle Eastern countries, the immigrant population of Europe, America and Australia.  It is estimated that as many as 20,000 UK girls are at risk of FGM.  Any girl is at risk but usual age range between Babies on the increase.

 The family come from a community that is known to practise FGM.  Parents state they will take the child out of the country for a prolonged period.  A child may talk about a long holiday to a country where the practice is pevalent.  A child may disclose that she is to have a “special procedure”, rites of passage or a celebration.

 A child may spend long periods of time away from the classroom during the day with bladder or menstrual problems.  Prolonged absences from school coupled with a noticeable change in behaviour.  The child has requested to abstain from physical exercise with no statement or support from their GP.  A child may be isolated, not interact with the peers, sad, low in mood due to pain and fear of disclosure. the

 Need to develop[ cultural competency and a willingness to increase understanding and respect for culturally-based values, beliefs and behaviours.  Cultural sensitivity.  Reach out to diverse communities.  Promote equality of opportunity recognising individual need for fairness and equal concern.  Assist communities in recognising when culture becomes harm.

 You must inform your designated person/child protection lead;  They must make a referral to the Local Authority Children’s Safeguarding Children’s Board. (LSCB)  NSPCC FGM Helpline (Free) 24hr anonymous FGM helpline nspcc.org.uk/fgm

 Site: Guy’s & St. Thomas’s Hospital.  Specialist FGM Midwife – Comfort Momoh.  More than 1,100 patients seen in last five years.  Raising awareness amongst the public, local communities, health professionals, pupils and teachers.  GP awareness courses.

 NSPCC  FORWARD  AFRUCA  GIRL CHILD NETWORK  CASSANDRA LEARNING CENTRE  VICTORIA CLIMBIE FOUNDATION

Remember: ONE HAND CAN’T CLAP The safeguarding and protection of our girls cannot be accomplished by any one individual or organisation. We have a collective duty and responsibility.