Female Genital Mutilation

The Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) programme helps health and care staff understand what FGM is, why it is harmful, what their responsibilities are in recognising and responding to it (including legal and safeguarding duties) and how to support women and girls who have been impacted. The programme consists of six eLearning sessions.

Intended audience
 
This programme is for health and care professionals who may come into contact with women and girls affected by, or at risk of, FGM, including:

• Primary care professionals
• Community health staff
• Safeguarding leads and practitioners
• Members of the wider multidisciplinary team
• Health and care staff working with children, young people and families

 
Key areas covered
 
The sessions cover:

• What female genital mutilation is and how it affects women and girls
• The physical and emotional impact of FGM
• The scale of FGM in the UK and worldwide
• Legal and statutory responsibilities related to FGM
• Safeguarding children, young people and adults at risk
• Recognising signs of FGM and knowing how to respond appropriately

 
Learning Objectives
 

• Describe what female genital mutilation (FGM) is, including the different types and impacts on women and girls
• Recognise girls and women at risk of FGM and respond using a sensitive, person-centred approach
• Explain the legal status of FGM in the UK and the safeguarding responsibilities of health professionals
• Make appropriate safeguarding and referral decisions, including mandatory reporting where required
• Identify clinical, psychological and specialist support needs, and refer to relevant services