Female genital mutilation is a collective term for procedures which include the removal of part or all of the external female genitalia for cultural or non-therapeutic reasons. It is typically performed on girls between 4 and 13 years although it may also be performed on new born babies and young women before marriage or pregnancy.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is an offence in the UK, except on specific physical and mental health grounds. Taking a child abroad for the purpose of it is also an offence.
Suspicions about possible female genital mutilation may arise as a consequence of:
- The family belonging to a community in which female genital mutilation is practiced and are making arrangements for the girl to take a holiday
- The family arranging vaccinations
- The family planning for the girl to be absent from school
- The girl talking about a ‘special procedure’ taking place
- Prolonged absence from school with noticeable behaviour change on return
- Long periods away from classes or other activities with bladder or menstrual problems
- Family history of female genital mutilation
Anyone knowing or suspecting that a girl is to be, or has been, subject to FGM must make an immediate referral to Children’s Social Care. If a child has already undergone FGM, particular attention must be paid to the potential risk to other female children in the same family.
In responding to FGM, a key consideration will be that the parent genuinely believes the procedure to be in the child’s best interests and does not intend it as an act of abuse. It may, in such cases, be appropriate to seek to protect the child without removing them from what is otherwise a caring home environment e.g. by obtaining a Prohibited Steps Order.
Ref:
Working Together 2010 Chapter 6 Para 6.14 – 6.19
Local Authority Social Services Letter LASSL (2004)4. DE Website.
