FGM - Female Genital Mutilation

FGM signs, how to report, plus national and local support

Female Genital Mutilation

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a collective term for procedures which include the partial or total removal of the external female genital organs, or injury to the female genital organs, for cultural or other non-therapeutic reasons. It’s also known as 'female circumcision' or 'cutting’ but has many other names.

Signs to look out for:

A relative or someone known as a 'cutter' visiting from abroad.
The family are making plans to go on holiday during the summer/have requested extended leave from school.
The child talks about a forthcoming special celebration.
The child / woman may have difficulty walking or sitting.
A female relative e.g., a mother or sister, has had FGM.

Learn more about signs FGM might happen, or it might have taken place, on the NSPCC website.

Watch these films - part of Zero Tolerance Day 2024

To raise awareness of Zero Tolerance against FGM Day 2024 the Trust and Birmingham Safeguarding Children Partnership, with funding from the Birmingham Community Safety Partnership, interviewed FGM survivor and campaigner Sarian Kamara to understand FGM and the impact it has.

Below is an interview with FGM survivor and campaigners Sarian Kamara.

Below is a short appeal film with FGM survivor and campaigners Sarian Kamara.

How to report FGM

If you're worried a child is at risk of or has already had FGM, call NSPCC’s dedicated FGM helpline on 0800 028 3550 or email fgm.help@nspcc.org.uk