BSCA Female Genital Mutilation Nimo Gual & Ibrahim Ismail

Where is FGM practised? FGM is practiced over 28 countries in Africa. Other parts of the world; Asia and Middle East, Globally the WHO estimates that between 100 and 140 million girls and women worldwide have been subjected to one of the first three types of female genital mutilation. Preformed on girls aged 5 to 13 Somalia 97.9% Guinea 95.6% Djibouti 93.1% Sierra Leone 91.3% Egypt 91.1% Sudan 89.3% Eritrea 88.7% Mali 85.2% BSCA

Bolton Perspective? Increase in FGM practising communities Bolton a Gateway community settling area Consultation with community (200 people from different FGM procedures.) Shocking Findings (Out of 200 people 164 were in support of FGM.) BSCA

Why is FGM practiced? Deep rooted culture Religion Marriage It preserves a girl’s virginity Upholds the family’s Honour Clean and pure Myths BSCA

Community statements “If we don’t circumcise our daughters who is going to marry them, FC is the only way for our daughters” – Mother, 46. “No mother would harm their child intentionally, our parents genuinely believe FGM is in the best interest of their daughters” – Young Female, 19 “ Is it permissible to marry a woman with clitoris” – Male 23 “clitoris of an uncircumcised women is ugly and stinks” – Old Woman, over 60. BSCA

Target Audience Women Men Faith Leaders Professionals in Education and Health BSCA

Bolton Project BSCA delivers workshops and seminars which are aimed at raising awareness to the target group in terms of the legal, health and social implications of FGM in the UK. The support we offer to FGM survivors include: One to one sessions Drop In Sessions Taking Referrals, and signposting to relevant agencies Workshops We have produced and distributed leaflets and posters throughout Bolton boroughs i.e. GP’s, at the BSCA centre, other community centre, local mosques and housing centres and other areas of Bolton with significant populations of FGM practicing communities. BSCA

Do your bit ? Attribute Listing 1. Pick a challenge, problem or opportunity – write it on the top of the page 2. Divide page in half 3. Write down everything you know on the right side – detail and depth is good 4. For each ‘known’ write down as many things as possible about what could be different on the left no evaluation BSCA

Do your bit ? Dot Voting –Fast and efficient method for evaluation 1. Every delegate gets three votes each 2. Vote for the most innovative ideas for encouraging more donations 3. You can vote 3 times for one idea, or spread your votes BSCA