Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a form of violent abuse against women and girls and at The Dash Charity, we’re joining forces with our affected local communities to fight it during the ‘cutting season’.
This summer, we’re collaborating with NS Training & Consultancy Services and Practice Index for a new campaign to highlight the risks of FGM to girls and women, and the requirements for mandatory reporting when young girls are taken abroad to undergo the practice.
The ‘cutting season’ refers to the time period during summer months when children are out of school and girls might be flown abroad for FGM.
Did you know that in the UK, an estimated 137,000 girls and women are living with the consequences of FGM and an estimated 60,000 girls under the age of 15 are at risk?
In the UK, being found guilty of an offence under the FGM Act is punishable by up to 14 years in prison – it doesn’t matter what nationality or residence status the victim holds.
Changes to traditional practices have to happen within the community, so by co-operating with community-based groups, our aim is to effect positive change & facilitate community social support for the abandonment of FGM through education and campaigning initiatives like this one.
A girl or woman at risk of FGM, or against whom an FGM offence has been committed, can be protected by applying for a Female Genital Mutilation Prevention Order within a family court order.
Take action: Don’t let any more girls suffer in silence
- If you think someone is in immediate danger of FGM, call the police on 999
- If you suspect that someone is at risk of FGM, call the Police on 101
- Make a referral to The Dash Charity who will provide access to specialist support
- Tell an NHS healthcare professional who will support you in confidence
- Call Crime Stoppers anonymously 0800 555 111
