Report Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

What FGM is 

FGM is when female genitals are cut, injured or changed, but without a medical reason.  

FGM is also known as female circumcision or cutting. It is usually carried out on young girls between infancy and the age of 15, before puberty starts.   

The NHS has more information on the types of FGM and its effects on women and girls. 

FGM is child abuse and is illegal in the UK. 

How to get help and support 

All women and girls have the right to control what happens to their bodies and the right to say no to FGM. 

Help is available if you have had FGM or you’re worried that you or someone you know is at risk. 

If someone is in immediate danger, call the police on 999. 

If you're concerned that someone may be at risk, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550 or email [email protected]  

If you or your daughter are under pressure to have FGM, or you are worried about somebody else you can apply for an FGM protection order.  

If you have had FGM, you can get help from a specialist NHS gynaecologist or FGM service. Ask a GP, your midwife or any other healthcare professional about services in your area. Find out more about National FGM Support Clinics and where to find them. 

If you are a professional 

If you're a professional working with a girl under 18 who is at risk of or has had FGM, you have a responsibility to safeguard and protect her. 

Call our children and families contact service on 020 7974 3317 (out of hours: 020 7974 4444) or your local Children's services.  

If you think someone is in immediate danger of FGM call the police on 999.