Transforming lives through learning Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) - a Child Protection issue

Transforming lives through learning What is FGM? All procedures which involve the partial or total removal of the external genitalia or injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or any other non-medical reasons The World Health Organisation These procedures are illegal in Scotland

Transforming lives through learning Why does FGM occur? Justifications for FGM may include: custom and tradition social acceptance, especially for marriage family honor a sense of belonging to the group and conversely the fear of social exclusion cultural identity – a tribal initiation into adulthood religion, in the mistaken belief that it is a religious requirement preserving virginity / chastity hygiene and cleanliness enhancing fertility

Transforming lives through learning Who is at risk? it is estimated 2 million girls around the world every year are affected mainly girls from Africa and the Middle East, but also some girls in the immigrant population of Europe, America and Australia girls aged between 4 and 14 are most at risk but older or younger girls could also be at risk

Transforming lives through learning Prevalence of FGM in Africa source UNICEF (2013)

Transforming lives through learning In Scotland, the figures are far less clear. Currently, there is no reliable estimate of prevalence of FGM in Scotland. Source: Scottish Refugee Council, Parliamentary Briefing, February 2014

Transforming lives through learning Possible indications that FGM may be about to take place A child from a community that is known to perform FGM may : talk about going on a special holiday to a country where the procedure is prevalent confide that she is to have a “special procedure” or celebration

Transforming lives through learning Possible indications that FGM may have already taken place A child from a community known to perform FGM may : spend long periods of time away from the classroom during the day with bladder or menstrual problems have prolonged absences from school plus a noticeable behaviour change seek to be excused from physical exercise without the support of their GP

Transforming lives through learning What do I do? FGM is a Child Protection issue Follow your Child Protection procedures

Transforming lives through learning Find out more Tackling Violence Against Women alegenitalmutilation/277,234 National child protection guidelines

Transforming lives through learning