Female Genital Mutilation

Definition

A collective term (also known as genital cutting and female circumcision), for all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for cultural or non-medical reasons.

Female Genital Mutilation is a criminal offence in the United Kingdom. It is also a criminal offence for UK nationals or permanent UK residents to carry out Female Genital Mutilation abroad, or to aid, abet, counsel or procure the carrying out of Female Genital Mutilation abroad, even in countries where the practice is legal.

Wider Resources

• Visit the London Child Protection Procedures website for up to date advice 
• See the DfE & Home Office guidance on mandatory reporting of female genital mutilation: procedural information here