Today marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. Female Genital Mutilation, or FGM, is defined by the NHS as “a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there's no medical reason for this to be done”. The NHS also notes that other terms for FGM include female circumcision, cutting, Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan.

As well as immediate and intense pain and suffering, FGM can also cause significant long-term health problems. FGM is, in the words of the UN, “recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights, the health and the integrity of girls and women”.

At AC we support the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, and those women and girls who are at risk or living with the consequences of FGM.

FGM is not only an international problem but also a problem in the UK. One tool in preventing FGM is education so, in that spirit, we spoke with Isabel Griffith, one of the solicitors in our firm who’s part of a team who sadly has experience of dealing with cases involving FGM about what she has learned about dealing with such cases. She said:

“These cases are always extremely difficult but there is legislation in place to protect girls who are at risk of FGM. We would urge anyone who is concerned that they may be at risk of FGM or are concerned that someone they know may be at risk of FGM, to speak out and reach out for support and protection. The court can make a Female Genital Mutilation Protection Order to protect someone who may be at risk of FGM. Any breach of this order is a criminal offence and punishable by up to five years imprisonment. It is vitally important that people know that there is legislation out there designed to protect someone who may be at risk.”

For those affected by FGM, concerned that someone may be at risk or being pressured to agree to FGM for themselves or their child, you can contact:
•         the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) by calling 0800 028 3550 or emailing fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk; or
•         a GP, health visitor or other healthcare professional.

FGM is a crime and child abuse. If someone is in immediate danger please contact the police immediately by calling 999.

You can read more about FGM and the dangers from the NHS.