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This section provides links to online training and face- to -face options, including NCC central training courses.

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This section contains links to books which are either survivor stories or designed to deepen your understanding of FGM. They have been included for those who wish to learn more about the subject to enhance personal and professional understanding. Some of the content may be distressing.

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This section provides links to the multi-agency practice guidance and national charities to support your understanding of FGM, why it is practised, and what you need to do about it.

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This section includes links to a number of classroom resources suitable for use with pupils in KS3, 4 & 5. However, they need to be used in the appropriate context so should be carefully reviewed in advance.

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This section provides a more global overview of the issue, including the most up to date research on prevalence etc.

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This section contains useful links to support women and girls who have undergone FGM. Some of the organisations listed also provide support to social care colleagues if they have a case of suspected FGM.

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This section will be especially helpful for DSLs when assessing concerns and preparing to make a referral.

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This section includes links to a number of classroom resources suitable for use with pupils in KS1 & 2. However, they need to be used in the appropriate context so should be carefully reviewed in advance.

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For those wanting to learn more, including hearing first hand from survivors and campaigners against FGM. Some of this content is very upsetting so please be mindful before viewing/sharing.

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A guide to safeguarding for professionals working with children

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A guide to safeguarding for professionals working with children

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This workbook is designed to be used to facilitate discussion and disseminate awareness amongst all professionals (social workers, teachers and health care professionals) who are required by law to report instances of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). Suitable for use in group settings, it requires no prior knowledge of the subject, but is written in such a way for anyone to be able to facilitate a session with colleagues, which takes between one to three hours depending on the facilitator and group's needs.

Divided into five chapters, it shows how to facilitate a training session using the material, including being aware of how people may be triggered by this difficult subject. Providing activities to facilitate discussion, it explains terminology and provides explanation of different types of FGM, risk factors and legal aspects including mandatory reporting in certain regions.

Designed to be concise, it will give busy professionals a quick and effective tool to disseminate information to as many colleagues as possible to allow them to develop understanding of a legal requirement of their job which has real and life-saving benefits for children.

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Talking About Female Genital Mutilation: A Guide to Safeguarding for Professionals who Work with Children

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Buy Talking About Female Genital Mutilation: A Guide to Safeguarding for Professionals who Work with Children 1 by Lisa, Caroline (ISBN: 9781032366579) from Amazon's Book Store. Everyday low prices and free delivery on eligible orders.

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Provides detailed information on types, risks, prevalence and responsibilities

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Multi-agency guidelines on FGM for those with statutory duties to safeguard children and vulnerable adults.

Documents

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Details

This guidance on female genital mutilation ( FGM) is for all persons and bodies in England and Wales.

You must read and follow this guidance if you are under statutory duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

You should read this FGM guidance along-side other safeguarding guidance, including (but not limited to):

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Multi-agency statutory guidance on female genital mutilation

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Multi-agency guidelines on FGM for those with statutory duties to safeguard children and vulnerable adults.

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This resource was developed in response to requests for clearer direction from central government about the safeguarding responsibilities of local authorities.

It is designed to highlight examples from areas where effective practice has been identified and to emphasise what works in protecting survivors and those at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).

This resource pack was updated:

in November 2015 to reflect legislative changes

in May 2016 to reflect the publication of statutory guidance on FGM

in February 2019 with some minor amendments

in February 2020, wholesale

It equips commissioners both with the data they need to understand the scale of the problem in their area and with an insight into some of the tools they can use to combat it effectively.

This pack includes:

case studies where FGM has been experienced by girls and women in the UK

information on what local authorities and others can do to raise awareness of FGM in their local area

links to support organisations, clinics and helplines which can help people who think they might be at risk

Disclaimer

External links were selected, reviewed and identified as effective practice on combating FGM when this resource was published. However, the Home Office is not responsible for the content of external websites. We do not maintain or update them; we cannot change them; and they may be changed without our knowledge. Other information and effective practice on FGM is freely available and the content on this website is therefore not exhaustive.

If you have documents or material you would like to be included in this resource, please email FGMEnquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk.

Warning

Some of the content in the links included in this resource pack contain images or accounts which readers may find distressing.

FGM is illegal in the UK. It is a practice which takes place worldwide in at least 30 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. It also takes place within parts of Western Europe and other developed countries, primarily among immigrant and refugee communities.

FGM has been classified by the World Health Organization into 4 types; these are described in more detail on the World Health Organization website.

FGM is a complex issue - despite the harm it causes, some women and men from affected communities consider it to be normal to protect their daughters and their cultural identity.

Some people believe that FGM is a way to ensure virginity and chastity. It is sometimes done to preserve girls from sex outside of marriage and from having sexual feelings. FGM is often claimed to be carried out in accordance with religious beliefs, but it is not supported by any religious doctrine.

3. Legislation

FGM is illegal in the UK. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, civil and criminal legislation on FGM is contained in the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 ("the 2003 Act"). In Scotland, FGM legislation is contained in the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation (Scotland) Act 2005. The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 was amended by sections 70-75 of the Serious Crime Act 2015.

Criminal law in England and Wales

Under section 1 of the 2003 Act, a person is guilty of an FGM offence if they excise, infibulate or otherwise mutilate the whole or any part of a girl's or woman's labia majora, labia minora or clitoris. To excise is to remove part or all of the clitoris and the inner labia (lips that surround the vagina), with or without removal of the labia majora (larger outer lips). To infibulate is to narrow the vaginal opening by creating a seal, formed by cutting and repositioning the labia.

Offences of FGM

It is an offence for any person (regardless of their nationality or residence status) to:

If the mutilation takes place in England or Wales, the nationality or residence status of the victim is irrelevant.

Failing to protect a girl from risk of FGM

If an offence under sections 1, 2 or 3 of the 2003 Act is committed against a girl under the age of 16, each person who is responsible for the girl at the time the FGM occurred could be guilty of an offence under section 3A of the 2003 Act.

FGM taking place abroad

It is an offence for a UK national or UK resident (even in countries where FGM is not an offence) to:

perform FGM abroad (sections 4 and 1 of the 2003 Act)

assist a girl to carry out FGM on herself outside the UK (sections 4 and 2 of the 2003 Act)

assist (from outside the UK) a non-UK person to carry out FGM outside the UK on a UK national or UK resident (sections 4 and 3 of the 2003 Act)

An offence of failing to protect a girl from the risk of FGM can be committed wholly or partly outside the UK by a person who is a UK national or a UK resident. The extra-territorial offences of FGM are intended to cover taking a girl abroad to be subjected to FGM.

Any person found guilty of an offence under sections 1, 2 or 3 of the 2003 Act faces up to 14 years' imprisonment, a fine or both. Any person found guilty of an offence under section 3A of the 2003 Act faces up to 7 years' imprisonment, a fine or both.

Under provisions of the law which apply generally to criminal offences, it is also an offence to:

aid, abet, counsel or procure a person to commit an FGM offence

encourage or assist a person to commit an FGM offence

attempt to commit an FGM offence

conspire to commit an FGM offence

Any person found guilty of such an offence faces the same maximum penalty for these offences under the 2003 Act.

Civil law in England and Wales

Under section 5A and schedule 2 of the 2003 Act, provision is made for FGM Protection Orders. An FGM Protection Order is a civil law measure which provides a means of protecting and safeguarding victims and potential victims of FGM. They contain conditions to protect a victim or potential victim. Those might, for example, involve surrendering a passport to prevent the person at risk from being taken abroad to undergo FGM, or a requirement that nobody arranges for FGM to be performed on the person being protected.

Those who may apply for an FGM Protection Order are:

the person who has undergone or is at risk of FGM

a local authority

any other person (for example the police, a teacher, a charity or a family member), with the permission of the court

An application for an order may be made at a Family Court in England and Wales; there is no fee. A court can be asked to consider an application straightaway when necessary, and can make an FGM Protection Order without the respondent(s) being present. Civil legal aid is available to victims, potential victims and third parties who seek to make, vary or discharge an FGM Protection Order, subject to meeting the relevant means and merits criteria. If the conditions in the FGM Protection Order are not followed, this is called a breach. It can be dealt with either by the Family Court as a contempt of court, or as a criminal offence, with a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.

This link shows what you need to do to apply for a FGM Protection Order, including links to the application forms.

Other aspects of the legislation

The 2003 Act also:

guarantees lifelong anonymity for survivors of FGM (section 4A of the 2003 Act)

places a mandatory duty on health and social care professionals and teachers to notify the police where they discover that FGM has been carried out on a girl under 18 years of age during the course of their work (section 5B of the 2003 Act)

provides for statutory guidance on FGM (section 5C of the 2003 Act)

This infographic from the National FGM Centre provides a summary of the legislative position.

4. Case studies

Some examples of good partnership working between voluntary and community sector organisations and local authorities are available to download, including the following FGM case studies:

interpreting, awareness-raising and advice

multi-agency approach

positive working between midwife and GP

5. Prevalence of FGM in England and Wales

Given the hidden nature of FGM, the exact number of women and girls in the UK who have undergone it is unknown. A 2015 study based on 2011 census data estimated that:

approximately 60,000 girls aged 0 to 14 were born in England and Wales to mothers who had undergone FGM

approximately 103,000 women aged 15 to 49 and approximately 24,000 women aged 50 and over who have migrated to England and Wales are living with the consequences of FGM. In addition, approximately 10,000 girls aged under 15 who have migrated to England and Wales are likely to have undergone FGM

The study also reported that:

women who have undergone FGM do not only live in urban centres in England and Wales: while many affected women live in large cities where migrant populations tend to be clustered, others are scattered in rural areas

no local authority area is likely to be free from FGM entirely: in many areas, the estimated prevalence is low, but there are still some women who may be affected by FGM

London has the highest prevalence rate in England and Wales, with an estimated 2.1% of women affected by FGM

outside London, the highest estimates were for Manchester, Slough, Bristol, Leicester and Birmingham

NHS Digital publishes statistics about patients with FGM who are treated within the NHS in England. This is crucial in understanding the extent of FGM in England as identified through the delivery of healthcare services.

" Characteristics of children in need " (see tab C3 of the tables document) data, which contains statistics on children referred to and assessed by children's social services, includes the numbers of occasions in each local authority area in England where FGM was identified at the end of the assessment.

To get an indication of how widespread FGM is in the local area, and what policies or training are in place, local agencies could look at the NHS Enhanced Dataset statistics and relevant research on prevalence.

They can also ask questions to ensure that the best possible support and preventative measures are put in place which are tailored to maximise outcomes. These may include:

which FGM-affected communities live in the area and how many members of these communities are there?

is there a policy on FGM, and who is accountable for leading and implementing it?

which body is responsible for FGM prevention?

what training is there for professionals such as health, teaching and safeguarding workers?

what steps have been taken to use the statutory guidance on FGM?

are designated senior staff for child protection in schools aware of FGM and have they ensured that their staff are aware of the potential risks?

Appendix 2 of this document shows how Coventry City Council estimated the prevalence of FGM in its area.

Read more about the worldwide prevalence of FGM and terms used for FGM in other countries.

6. Working together with voluntary and community sector organisations

A coalition of charitable trusts set up the Tackling FGM Initiative which funded community projects. As part of this work, an independent evaluation was carried out, highlighting what works in community engagement activity as well as a best practice guide for communities tackling FGM. Both can be found through the above link.

This study shows the results of focus groups carried out by AFRUCA with a range of African communities in Greater Manchester. It sets out the comments of people in those communities about FGM and what can be inferred from those about the prevalence of FGM in Greater Manchester, and makes recommendations for improvement.

Midaye is a grassroots organisation offering a wide range of services to ethnic minorities in the West London area, with a focus on those who speak Arabic and Somali. It organises and regularly delivers community engagement events and training for the community and other professionals.

7. FGM statutory multi-agency guidance

The Serious Crime Act 2015 amended the FGM Act to provide for statutory guidance on FGM. This guidance is intended to help to:

further increase awareness of FGM and improve compliance with good practice

increase referrals and reports to the police

afford victims and survivors of FGM the greatest possible protection

The statutory guidance was published on 1 April 2016, with some minor updates made in 2018 and 2019. The guidance draws on the previous FGM multi-agency practice guidelines and was updated to capture the legal changes introduced by the Serious Crime Act 2015, new guidance for health professionals, new sources of data on FGM, wider safeguarding responsibilities, duties and resources for professionals, and other minor changes. It also includes information on the FGM mandatory reporting duty.

8. National Helpline

The NSPCC operates a free national FGM helpline, which offers guidance to thousands of people, including professionals. The FGM helpline is staffed by specialised practitioners, who are all trained to identify the risk of FGM. The helpline can offer advice and support: if you are worried about a child who is at risk of FGM, if somebody has already undergone an FGM procedure or if you have any questions regarding FGM.

The helpline is available seven days a week between the following hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 10pm and Saturday and Sunday 9pm to 6pm. You can call and choose to remain anonymous on 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.

9. Safeguarding

The action we take to promote the welfare of children and protect them from harms such as FGM is everyone's responsibility. Everyone who comes into contact with children and families has a role to play.

More information is available in the following guidance:

The Children and Social Work Act 2017 provides for the replacement of Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs) with a more flexible system of multi-agency arrangements, led by the three safeguarding partners: the local authority chief executive; the accountable officer of a clinical commissioning group; and a chief officer of police. While education settings are not named as one of the three key statutory partners, they are an extremely important relevant agency and all local areas must detail how education settings are included in the partnership.

These new safeguarding partnerships play an important role in challenging safeguarding practice and assessing how effective these services are. Every local authority should be part of a safeguarding partnership.

Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018 provides the statutory guidance in England for the three safeguarding partners, who will be required to make joint safeguarding decisions to meet the needs of local children and families. They will be jointly responsible for setting out local plans to keep children safe and improve their wellbeing, and will be accountable for how well agencies work together to protect children from abuse and neglect. They will also be responsible for identifying serious child safeguarding cases which raise issues of importance in relation to the area and reviewing cases where they consider it appropriate.

The law underpinning the new safeguarding arrangements came into effect on 29 June 2018. Local areas in England had up to 12 months from this date to develop and publish their arrangements. All local areas have now published their plans and all local arrangements should now be being implemented.

Since 31 October 2015, regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales have been subject to an FGM mandatory reporting duty. They are legally required to report 'known' cases of FGM in under 18s, which they identify in the course of their professional work, to the police. You can read procedural information on the duty and a factsheet (with translations) for communities.

10. Local authorities

Below are some examples of FGM strategies and action taken by local authorities.

The National FGM Centre is a partnership between Barnardo's and the Local Government Association which aims to achieve a systems change in the provision of services for children and families affected by FGM. It has specialist social workers embedded in a number of local authorities to provide support in cases where FGM, breast flattening or child abuse linked to faith or belief are a concern - for example, providing advice and guidance to frontline professionals and applying for FGM Protection Orders. They have produced this guide for councillors about FGM. The Centre also provides a 'knowledge hub' of information and guidance about FGM, trains professionals (see Section 16) and engages with communities.

In 2015 a group of organisations produced a guide for local authorities with recommendations for fighting FGM at a local level.

Bromley Safeguarding Children Partnership have developed an FGM Awareness App which is designed to help professionals who are responsible for child safeguarding to understand FGM, the law, the context in which FGM takes place and their safeguarding responsibilities.

In 2013 Coventry City Council became the first local authority in the UK to support a full council motion to condemn FGM. In 2016 a two year programme of work was commissioned to embed the REPLACE approach, building on existing assets within communities to ensure that they could tackle FGM and continue the work once the funding had ended. The project trained over 3,500 professionals, recruited 90 community champions from 15 affected communities and involved a range of community events which harnessed the commitment of 1,964 people to effect change locally. The local authority carries out ongoing work to raise awareness, train staff and support its partners; it is also developing a Strategic Statement outlining its ongoing aim to end FGM. Coventry uses the 4Ps model (Prepare, Prevent, Protect, Pursue) to tackle FGM. Coventry Haven Women's Aid also runs a Friendship Group from 10-12 on the first and third Mondays of every month, at Coventry Central Library (Smithford Way), which provides help and support to survivors of FGM.

In 2017 Leeds City Council set up a new FGM strategic multi-agency group partnership which brought together health, education, West Yorkshire Police and third sector agencies to develop a co-ordinated approach to tackling FGM across Leeds. The group organised a conference on FGM in May 2018. They have also supported the Black Health Initiative, who were successful in receiving funding through the Home Office's counter-extremism Building A Stronger Britain Together programme, with which they reached out to and raised awareness with community groups, and developed a FGM toolkit.

The Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership (LSCP) also implemented an under-18s Pathway to guide professionals more effectively. Leeds is also a pilot area for the national FGM clinics (see Section 12), which saw the opening of the Blossom Clinic in Leeds during October 2019. The clinic is supported by a local mental health charity, Touchstone, who are now providing a mental health and an advocacy service. Leeds has set up and is developing a credible voices group within the community to help raise awareness, educate, identify gaps in service and develop the Leeds response to FGM by feeding into the FGM Steering group who report to the LSCP. They are also working in partnership with Bedfordshire University who will be undertaking an evaluation of the Leeds response to FGM and "honour"-based abuse.

In 2016 Nottingham City Council passed a motion to become the country's first 'zero-tolerance' city of FGM. Partners including police, health, education, social care and the voluntary and community sector together produced an action plan, reviewed quarterly, for ending FGM in a generation in Nottingham. Mojatu Foundation are a key partner driving this agenda forward, providing support and awareness training for partners and offering comprehensive support services for survivors. In 2019 they trained a network of faith and youth ambassadors who work within their communities to raise awareness of zero tolerance, and produced a series of short videos which were released on social media at the end of the school summer team at the same time as letters to schools about the 'cutting season' - see https://www.facebook.com/mojatu.foundation/videos/864295247276539/ and https://www.facebook.com/mojatu.foundation/videos/681275118966253/.

Nationally, Operation Limelight is a multi-agency safeguarding operation at the UK border which focuses on harmful practices such as FGM and forced marriage. It is a national operation delivered by Police and Border Force. Delivery partners can include local children's social care departments, and health and third sector organisations which specialise in responding to harmful practices. Often delivered before and after the three main school holidays, Limelight targets flights connecting to locations where there is high prevalence of FGM and forced marriage. It seeks to raise awareness of harmful practices, identify vulnerability and safeguard those at risk. It also seeks to develop intelligence and identify possible perpetrators.

This document has been designed by the Metropolitan Police Service to assist those engaged on Operation Limelight to have sensitive conversations with passengers regarding FGM.

Avon and Somerset Police work in close collaboration with statutory partners, the third sector and affected communities to develop and refine their response to FGM. There is a particular focus on increasing public awareness through education and health messaging and through the empowerment of women and girls to resist gender-based violence. The cooperation and insight of affected communities are critical to the success of these approaches. Avon and Somerset Police also work with police and partner colleagues from the South-West area to ensure sharing of information, consistency of practice and peer support in responding to FGM and other forms of "honour"-based abuse.

Greater Manchester Police work closely on FGM with local and national partners, including Greater Manchester Combined Authority, to raise awareness and encourage people to report it. The Force has a Strategic Lead for Harmful Practices and has a network of officers across its districts to provide specialist advice and support. Greater Manchester Police support Operation Limelight during the summer period at Manchester International Airport.

Project Azure sits within the Metropolitan Police Service's (MPS) Continuous Policing Improvement Command and is the MPS strategic response to tackling FGM and other harmful practices such as child abuse linked to faith or belief, forced marriage, "honour"-based abuse and breast flattening. They also provide a coordination role nationally for Operation Limelight. Their mission is to work together with partners to prevent FGM, to identify and protect victims from harm, and to identify and prosecute offenders.

Operation Sentinel is a force-wide operation aimed at enhancing the service provided by West Midlands Police and its partners to victims across the force area who are especially vulnerable. A particular focus has been applied to "honour"-based abuse, FGM, domestic abuse, child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Sentinel aims to ensure that police, partner agencies (such as local councils, charities and support services) and the community work together more effectively and share information to fight these crimes.

Police and Crime Commissioners have also undertaken a range of actions in their local areas. Get in touch with your local Police and Crime Commissioner to find out more information.

12. Health in England

FGM has no health benefits and it harms girls and women in many ways. It is important that survivors of FGM receive targeted healthcare support, for both their physical and mental health needs.

Specialist clinics

For women aged 18 or over who are not pregnant, England has eight National FGM Support Clinics (NFGMSC), which are holistic, community-based clinics which offer a range of support services delivered by a multi-disciplinary team. These include physical assessments and treatment (including deinfibulation if required), counselling, safeguarding information and access to an FGM Health Advocate. There will be onward support to a specialist consultant if additional support is required. There are eight clinics, of which five are in London (Brent, Croydon, Hammersmith, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest); the other three are in Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds. This link provides further details.

Women who are pregnant and who have undergone FGM can access support through their local maternity pathway. This leaflet from the National FGM Centre provides information for women whose FGM has been identified in pregnancy.

Girls under 18 years who have or are suspected to have undergone FGM can access support through the specialist paediatric service at University College London Hospitals (UCLH).

The Oxford Rose Clinic, based at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, is a confidential service providing support for women and girls who have experienced female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C). It holds fortnightly clinics which offer a wide range of types of care to patients.

Midaye offers bilingual health advocacy to FGM-affected communities in Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, the Sunflower clinics at Saint Mary's Hospital and Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital FGM clinics in London, on a weekly basis. It also works in community-based venues, GP practices and other venues as appropriate.

Psychotherapy and psychosocial services

Case histories and personal accounts taken from women show that FGM can be an extremely traumatic experience for girls and women, which stays with them for the rest of their lives.

The World Health Organization has noted that young women receiving psychological counselling for FGM in the UK have reported feelings of betrayal by parents, incompleteness, regret and anger. There is increasing awareness of the severe psychological consequences of FGM for girls and women, which can become evident in mental health problems and drug and alcohol dependency.

A 2005 study from the American Journal of Psychiatry based on research in African communities affected by FGM showed that women who had undergone FGM experienced the same levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as adults who had been subjected to early childhood abuse, and that the majority (80%) of the women suffered from affective (mood) or anxiety disorders.

The fact that FGM is culturally embedded in a girl's or woman's community does not protect her against the development of PTSD or other psychiatric disorders. Professionals, particularly those in the health sector, should ensure that mental health support is made available to assist girls and women who have undergone FGM, as well as treatment for any physical symptoms or complications.

Female Genital Trauma: Guidelines for Working Therapeutically with Survivors of Female Genital Mutilation provides recommendations for psychological therapists and counsellors to facilitate therapy with adult women who have undergone female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C).

Examples of community-based FGM services in local areas include:

the Dahlia Project, run by Manor Gardens Welfare Trust

FORWARD provide psychological and psychosocial educational support nationally

Information about mental health services in your area can be found on the NHS website.

Reporting and recording FGM

There are three requirements on NHS organisations and professionals to record and share information about FGM and risks relating to it. These are the Mandatory Reporting Duty, the Enhanced Dataset and the FGM - Information Sharing system (FGM-IS).

the FGM Mandatory Reporting Duty is a legal duty provided for in section 5A of the FGM Act 2003 (as amended by the Serious Crime Act 2015). It requires regulated health and social care professionals and teachers to report to the police cases of FGM in girls under 18 if, in the course of their professional duties, they see signs or symptoms indicating that a girl has undergone FGM or if she tells the professional that she has undergone it. Complying with the duty does not breach any confidentiality requirement or other restriction on disclosure which might otherwise apply.

NHS Digital collect data about women and girls who have undergone FGM and who are being cared for by the NHS in England. This is the FGM Enhanced Dataset (see Section 5). The purpose of this data collection is to build a national picture of prevalence, and to support work in the NHS to prevent and treat FGM. The data is collected whenever a woman is identified in a healthcare setting in England as having undergone FGM, and the FGM could have happened at any point in the past. This means that the Enhanced Dataset will record cases which are not eligible for mandatory reporting (for example, where FGM is identified in a patient who is over 18).

the FGM-IS (FGM - Information Sharing system) is a national digital system which shares information within the healthcare record of a girl under 18 - if she has a family history of FGM - between authorised healthcare professionals and administrative staff across England. FGM-IS supports effective early intervention and ongoing safeguarding of girls who are potentially at risk of FGM.

Resources from government:

Resources from the Royal Colleges:

Other resources:

The NHS London Safeguarding team and the Royal College of GPs worked in collaboration with Building Bridges and Mojatu Foundation to co-produce an FGM easy read.

The NHS London Safeguarding team, in partnership with Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group, Leeds FGM Blossom Clinic, the Sunflower Clinic and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust have developed an animation based on trauma informed care, to support health professionals to have conversations with survivors of FGM regarding cervical screening.

Cervical screening FGM resource
13. Schools in England

From September 2020, Relationships Education will be compulsory for all primary pupils. Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) will be compulsory for all secondary pupils and Health Education will be compulsory for all pupils in state-funded schools.

RSE will cover the concepts of, and laws relating to, sexual consent, sexual exploitation, abuse, grooming, coercion, harassment, forced marriage, rape, domestic abuse and FGM, and how these can affect current and future relationships.

In infant and primary schools, effective sex and relationships education within PSHE can help pupils keep themselves safe from harm through building their confidence to ask for help, learning that their body belongs to them and giving them the language to describe private parts of their body. The Sex Education Forum and PSHE Association have advice and guidance on effective teaching and learning in sex and relationships education and PSHE.

Listed below are some helpful resources and information about FGM for schools and teachers.

Resources from government and the police

The Guidance for Schools: Safeguarding Young People from Sexual Violence, CSE and Harmful Practices explains what the police do in relation to a range of complex issues which affect young people in schools and colleges, including FGM. The police want to encourage information sharing so that partners within the safeguarding process can work together more effectively.

This guidance covers:

what the relevant legislation says

what options police have from both the safeguarding and enforcement perspectives

what resources are available to give readers a better understanding of each of these highly complex issues

what vulnerability signs schools could look for

suggestions as to how schools can respond to these hidden harms within existing referral procedures

The Harmful Practices Schools Charter is a partner-led document which seeks to encourage schools to adopt a preventative approach to educating children on all of these harmful practices, including FGM. Schools are encouraged to sign up to the Charter, as it represents a tangible and direct commitment from them to promote the delivery of inputs in schools which address harmful practices. Schools can use the principles supported by the Charter by incorporating them into lesson plans developed and delivered by school staff or by external providers. It also promotes the appropriate sharing of information through existing referral procedures.

Useful documents for teachers

The National FGM Centre has developed schools guidance on FGM, including a "conversation form" for logging concerns and raising them with pupils and parents and online training for staff in dealing with a disclosure of FGM. They have also produced FGM Flash Cards, designed for professionals to use with other professionals, parent(s)/carer(s), children and young people

The National FGM Centre in partnership with the Eve Appeal have collaborated in co-designing lesson plans for introducing FGM to young people, in Key Stages 1, 2 and 3.

Videos for schools

Integrate UK has produced the following three videos as resources for schools:

Oxford Against Cutting has produced the following short films for schools:

Are You Ready to Know? was created by and for secondary school students, and shows a conversation about FGM between a mother from the Gambia and her nine-year old daughter

Who Can You Tell? is a short film to encourage primary school children to talk to their teacher or school health nurse if they are worried about FGM or sexual harm and includes the NSPCC's PANTS message

See Section 17 for further films which may be relevant.

Other useful resources for schools and young people

The Guardian Project is a project run by NESTAC which coordinates care and support across Greater Manchester for girls and young women (up to 21 years of age) who are affected by or at risk of FGM. Advice, support and guidance are available for all professionals working to safeguard girls and young women from FGM across Greater Manchester. Contact: 07449 651 677 or guardian.project@outlook.com

14. Children's social care

All children's social care professionals should work in accordance with the guidelines in 'Working together to safeguard children' (2018) in England and 'Safeguarding children: working together under the Children Act 2004' (2004) in Wales.

The National FGM Centre has produced a number of useful resources:

Other resources and information about FGM for children's social care professionals include:

15. Leaflets

These materials are designed to help classroom teachers and professionals raise awareness of FGM and explore the stigma and common issues that often surround it.

Resources from government

'Female genital mutilation: the facts' leaflet - this sets out some of the key facts about FGM

'Statement opposing FGM' - this outlines what FGM is, the legislation and penalties involved and the help and support available. The statement is often referred to as a health passport, in that, if a woman or girl were to be taken abroad to undergo FGM, she could show this to people in her country of destination to show that FGM is illegal in the UK. This is also available in Amharic, Arabic, Farsi, French, Somali, Swahili, Tigrinyan, Turkish, Urdu and Welsh. Please contactFGMEnquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk if you would like printed copies of either document.

The following resources from other sources are also available:

From FORWARD:

Keeping Your Girls Safe From FGM - a pocket guide on safeguarding children during the summer holidays, which provides information on UK law, keeping girls safe whilst travelling abroad and professionals' statutory duty to report, as well as adding clarity for parents and guardians

FGM FAQs: A Campaigner's Guide for Young People - information for young FGM activists

Information, Services and Support Guide - a guide for young people who are interested in finding out more about FGM and the support services available

FGM and Islam - a leaflet developed by FORWARD, the Muslim Council of Britain and Muslim Spiritual Care Provision in the NHS. It clarifies that FGM is not a part of the Islamic religion

You can also:

16. Training

Education and training need to be provided for all health and social care professionals who may work with affected women and girls, or those at risk, and with their families. A focus on safeguarding is essential and it is also important to consider the issues of ethnicity, custom, culture and religion in a sensitive manner.

Local Safeguarding Partnerships are responsible for commissioning, monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the training, including multi-agency training, provided within their area to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. This is in line with their function to develop policies and procedures in relation to training of those persons who work with children or in services affecting the safety and welfare of children. Such policies and procedures may include specific training in relation to FGM. Further information can be found in the 'Working together to safeguard children' resource'.

It is recommended that FGM should be a part of all staff training on safeguarding. Any programme of training around FGM should include the following:

an overview of FGM (what it is, and when and where it may be performed)

the socio-cultural context, including the incorrect perception that FGM is a religious obligation

facts and figures

UK FGM and child protection law

medical complications

safeguarding children - the principles to follow when FGM is suspected or has been performed

the roles and responsibilities of staff

Professionals should receive training specific to their role. Below are some examples of the types of training available. Particular requirements will need to be assessed according to the professional sector.

Training from government and the NHS

Training from other sources

The information below has been provided by the organisations themselves. The Home Office has not observed the courses or their materials, so cannot provide assurance as to the content of the courses, and the listing of a course here does not represent an endorsement by the Home Office. Training from other organisations is available.

Birmingham and Solihull Women's Aid facilitates training on the issues of domestic violence, forced marriage and FGM for frontline professionals, schools and affected communities

Coventry University developed ' Petals ', the UK's first FGM web app, which gives advice on how to get support and deal with FGM. It can also be used by people who want to find out more about FGM and how it might affect them and others

The Dahlia Project, run by Manor Gardens Welfare Trust, is a North London-based project which provides training on FGM to health, social care and education professionals, as well as to students training in relevant professions. Training is delivered by a specialist FGM midwife and a community facilitator from an FGM-affected community, allowing participants to understand why FGM is practised, how it affects women and the role of professionals in preventing it

FORWARD provides an FGM Training Programme, an accredited and tailored developed training programme for professionals on FGM, and FGM awareness sessions for schools, as well as teacher training on FGM and how to respond to it appropriately

Freedom Charity provides training to staff teams and students at primary schools, secondary schools, universities and colleges, as well as public service professionals and community groups across England and Wales. Its provisions include:

a PSHE Association-accredited FGM/C lesson plan based upon the publication "Cut Flowers", a children's novel by Aneeta Prem

the Freedom Charity free phone App to provide secure advice and emergency contact for victims

the Red Triangle badge - a national symbol and campaign to raise awareness about FGM

IKWRO - Women's Rights Organisation provides training on all harmful practices including "honour"-based violence, forced marriage and FGM, to professionals, schools and affected communities

IMKAAN is a UK-based, Black feminist organisation and is the only national second-tier women's organisation dedicated to addressing violence against Black and minoritised women and girls i.e. women and girls who are defined in policy terms as Black and 'Minority Ethnic' (BME). As part of its Quality Assurance Framework, Imkaan has developed accredited quality standards and training for working with BME women and girls, and harmful practices, including FGM, forced marriage and "honour-based" violence

Integrate UK is a youth-led charity which works towards gender and racial equality. It provides FGM training to front-line professionals, such as teachers and medical professionals

Luton All Women's Centre deliver training and awareness raising sessions in schools, to teachers and other professionals

Oxford Against Cutting provides workshops and lessons on FGM and forced marriage to staff teams and students at primary schools, secondary schools, universities and colleges in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, as well as professionals and community groups. This is mostly free of charge - email info@oxfordagainstcutting.org. All workshops are delivered by facilitators from affected communities

17. DVDs and videos

To reach communities the Home Office has produced a DVD which features interviews with health professionals, survivors, campaigners, religious leaders and the NSPCC. This DVD will help supported advocates within communities, such as community leaders, to run educational sessions on FGM in trusted environments and to start conversations on the issue. This film is 8 minutes long. Please contact FGMEnquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk if you would like a copy. It is also available online:
Ending Female Genital Mutilation
In this short film, a survivor of FGM describes her experiences. Please note that this film has some content which viewers may find distressing.

The NHS has produced this 5-minute film ' FGM is child abuse ' about what FGM is and where to find help if you or someone you know is at risk of it.

These short, powerful animated films were developed by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in collaboration with:

the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG)

the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)

the Royal College of Nursing (RCN)

health visitors

survivors of FGM

non-governmental organisations

a variety of local community partners

They involved close working with survivors of FGM to ensure that the stories told through the animations remained true to the realities of surviving FGM. Two of the films focus on the role which men must play in ending FGM.

FORWARD has produced a number of films:

Uncomfortable conversations: A Letter to My Husband - this film explores the impact of FGM on women and the difficulty in having the 'uncomfortable conversation' around FGM in relationships. It was developed by FORWARD and AIDOS as part of the Building Bridges between Africa and Europe to tackle FGM/C project. (9 minutes)

The True Story of Ghati and Rhobi - the story of two girls resisting their community's practice of FGM. With the help of community elders, they change the way their community treats a girl's transition into womanhood by ending the practice. The film is also available in Swahili. (6 minutes)

My Body My Rules: FGM Animation - an animated film aimed at raising awareness of FGM amongst primary school aged children in the UK. It was developed by FORWARD and Animage Films. (4 minutes)

Needlecraft: FGM Animation - An animated film aimed at raising awareness of FGM amongst older audiences. Developed by FORWARD and Animage Films. Please note that this video contains some images which some viewers may find distressing. (4 minutes)

Think Again: The Film - this film follows a 12-year-old's struggle between family honour and the facts about FGM. On discovering that her mother wants to take her back home to be "cut" she explores the implications FGM has on her life and the misconceptions which explain why the practice persists in the 21st century. (8 minutes)

SafeHands have produced three short films which offer insight into reactions to FGM and can be used by facilitators working with young people in communities to highlight, inform and educate on FGM:

BBC Three has produced this film: 'Things Not To Say To FGM Survivors and Campaigners'.

The Kurdish and Middle Eastern Women's Organisation (KMEWO) has produced a DVD - "For honour and love" - which includes scenes about control in relationships ("Lost in translation"), female genital cutting ("The holiday"), forced marriages ("A family affair [part 1]") and "honour" killings ("A family affair [part 2]"). The DVD is supplied with a booklet, which provides a summary of the message of each scene, a number of discussion points for use with groups of young people, and suggestions for further discussion.

For copies, please contact KMEWO:

by telephone: (020 7263 1027 or 07748 851 125)

by email: info@kmewo.com or sawsan@kmewo.com

by post: Kurdish and Middle Eastern Women's Organisation (KMEWO), Caxton House, 129 St John's Way, London, N19 3RQ

The following two, longer, international films are also available:

See Section 13 for some further films designed specifically for schools.

18. Support organisations, helplines and clinics

Local FGM support services

To find FGM support near you, try the FGM help and advice postcode finder.

Helplines

NSPCC's FGM helpline: (see Section 8 for further details)

National honour-based abuse helpline, run by Karma Nirvana: 0800 5999 247

Clinics

This link provides details of the eight community-based National FGM Support Clinics, for adult women who are not pregnant. (See Section 12 for further information.)

Government services

The Home Office FGM Unit:

provides outreach support to local areas to support them in developing their local response to fighting FGM and to raise awareness of the unit

identifies and highlights examples of effective practice across local areas and professional groups

promotes (and provides on request) available FGM resources

provides a free e-learning course in FGM, which anybody can take: Recognising and preventing FGM

works with the police, Border Force, the Crown Prosecution Service and the College of Policing to improve the identification and prosecution of offenders

maintains an overview of all Government work to fight FGM and works closely with the voluntary and community sector, survivors and professionals to develop cross-cutting policies and processes.

If you are interested in receiving any outreach support or have any other queries, please email the FGM unit at fgmenquiries@homeoffice.gov.uk. Please note that the unit cannot deal with individual cases of FGM.

The Forced Marriage Unit is a joint Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Home Office unit which leads on the Government's forced marriage policy, outreach and casework. It operates both inside the UK, where support is provided to any individual, and overseas, where consular assistance is provided to British nationals, including dual nationals. The Forced Marriage Unit can also assist British nationals overseas who are at risk of FGM. The unit can be contacted on 020 7008 0151 (or, from overseas, 0044 20 7008 0151), or by emailing fmu@fco.gov.uk.

You can contact the Police.

Other organisations

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Female genital mutilation: resource pack

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This resource was developed in response to requests for clearer direction from central government about the safeguarding responsibilities of local authorities. It is designed to highlight examples from areas where effective practice has been identified and to emphasise what works in protecting survivors and those at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).

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Teaching about female genital mutilation (FGM) is a vital component of any school's approach to safeguarding and child protection. See below for some key information on teaching about FGM and the different statutory requirements to do so.

We've also published new guidance and lessons for upper KS2 and lower KS3 on this important PSHE topic, available exclusively to PSHE Association members.

Why teach about FGM?

Whilst it is adults' responsibility to protect children from harm, if children and young people are taught about FGM there's more chance they will report it.

Every young person - as a citizen in a diverse society - should learn about FGM, but especially children and young people at immediate or future risk of FGM, and young people who have experienced FGM (they may or may not be aware of what has happened to them).

Pupils need to know:

What FGM is and how it affects people

What the law says on FGM

How to manage the threat of FGM (for themselves or for others)

How to seek help and support if FGM has happened (for themselves or for others)

Is it a statutory requirement to teach about FGM?

At primary:

Whilst there is no statutory requirement for primary schools to explicitly teach about FGM, there is a rationale within the Statutory guidance for Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education for teaching about FGM at primary level:
By the end of primary school, pupils should learn:

about the concept of privacy and the implications of it for both children and adults; including that it is not always right to keep secrets if they relate to being safe.

that each person's body belongs to them, and the differences between appropriate and inappropriate or unsafe physical, and other, contact.

At secondary:

Teaching about FGM is compulsory is secondary school. The statutory RSHE guidance states that:

Being Safe: Pupils should know the concepts of, and laws relating to FGM, and how these can affect current and future relationships.

Pupils should be made aware of the relevant legal provisions when relevant topics are being taught, including for example: female genital mutilation (FGM).

The DfE guidance: Keeping Children safe in Education, 2021, also states that:
Governing bodies and proprietors should ensure that children are taught about safeguarding, including online safety, and recognise that a one size fits all approach may not be appropriate for all children, and a more personalised or contextualised approach for more vulnerable children, victims of abuse and some SEND children might be needed.

Schools should consider all of this as part of providing a broad and balanced curriculum... This may include covering relevant issues for schools through Relationships Education (for all primary pupils) and Relationships and Sex Education (for all secondary pupils) and Health Education. How should FGM be taught at primary phase and lower KS3?

Prevention is key

PSHE education is a preventative curriculum that develops protective factors through a variety of contexts. Pupils learn about keeping safe, rights and responsibilities, consent, respect, self-worth, communication and managing pressure. And these aspects contribute to protecting against FGM, even where FGM is not specifically mentioned or taught about.

Critical moments

To be effective, teaching should move from pupils learning only 'about' FGM, to equipping them with skills that will help keep them and others safe. Learning the vocabulary, language, strategies and skills to manage 'critical moments' in relation to FGM is essential.

Avoid shock tactics

E.g. Sharing graphic stories of being held down and cut. These approaches scare and can traumatize children and can also re-traumatise those who have experienced FGM. They may also trigger denial that FGM happens or has happened.

Create a safe learning environment

Be aware that pupils may be directly or indirectly affected by FGM; don't make any assumptions.

Ensure you 'distance' the learning so that pupils aren't asked to discuss their personal experiences or imagine themselves in a particular situation. Use scenarios or case studies that are based on characters instead.

Set clear 'ground rules' for class discussions. Pupils should be encouraged to use correct terminology for body parts and be respectful of others, even if they disagree with their opinions. Make pupils aware of the limits of confidentiality and of teachers' responsibility to safeguard them in the event of concerns for their safety or disclosures.

Signpost support

It's essential that pupils know where to go if they want more advice or have concerns.

Speaking to a teacher or adult they trust at school should be the first port of call but this may not always be practical, so they'll need to know other safe places to find information or seek help, such as ChildLine www.childline.org.uk/ 0800 1111 or the NSPCC free helpline: 0800 028 3550. They can also email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.

Our lesson plans

Our lesson plans support schools that are teaching specifically about FGM at primary phase (beyond the protective factors developed through other contexts) and those teaching about it in key stage 3.

What's included?

Both the upper KS2 (year 5-6) and lower KS3 (year 7-8) lesson packs include:

Comprehensive teacher guidance

PDF lesson plans and resources

Interactive PowerPoint lesson plans

Can anyone download/use the lessons?

All these materials are available exclusively to PSHE Association members. Become a member today for access to this and and our full range of resources, CPD and support.

How will these lessons help me to meet statutory RSHE requirements

The lessons have been designed to address all the relevant learning opportunities in our Programme of Study and the relevant content outlined in the Department for Education's statutory RSHE guidance.

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What schools need to know about FGM - we answer your most frequently asked questions.

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This guidance accompanies Freedom Charity’s lesson on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The lesson is designed for key stage 3 but could be used for key stage 4. When planning your programme, do bear in mind, however, that as this is primarily preventative education, it is important that learning about FGM is not left too late. The lesson explains what FGM is, explores and clarifies facts related to FGM, and supports students to seek help and support if they, or others they know, are at risk of, or have experienced, FGM. This lesson should be taught as part of wider learning on relationships or health education, within a comprehensive PSHE education programme. Please read and consider this guidance first, before teaching the lesson.

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Freedom Charity: FGM Downloadable Lesson Plan

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Freedom Charity: FGM Downloadable Lesson Plan

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Female Genital Mutilation is a problem with wide global reach and is becoming increasingly common in the UK. The topic will be particularly sensitive and personal for some students and must be approached with the greatest care, especially among younger children. The absolute requirement for sensitivity, confidentiality and reporting is explained in the Teacher’s Notes. The lesson plan and accompanying resources will help educators to:

-Explain what is meant by FGM and list the different types of FGM

- Explore the facts and challenge myths in relation to FGM and highlight the law in relation to FGM

- Help students to analyse how safely to access support for themselves or others who may be at risk, or have been subject to FGM

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Bristol Integrate Buckle Up Song Resource

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Bristol Integrate Buckle Up Song Resource

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Buckle Up: schoolgirls put message to end FGM into song

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: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and/or the prepuce.

: Partial or total removal of the clitoris and labia minora, with or without excision of the labia majora.

: Narrowing of the vaginal orifice by cutting and bringing together the labia minora and/or the labia majora to create a type of seal, with or without excision of the clitoris. In most instances, the cut edges of the labia are stitched together, which is referred to as 'infibulation'.

: All other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, for example: pricking, piercing, incising, scraping and cauterization.

FGM is condemned by a number of international treaties and conventions, as well as by national legislation in many countries. Article 25 of the  Universal Declaration of Human Rights  states that "everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being," and this statement has been used to argue that FGM violates the right to health and bodily integrity. With FGM considered as a form of   against women, the  UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women  can be invoked. Similarly, defining it as a form of torture brings it under the rubric of the  Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment . Moreover, since FGM is regarded as a traditional practice prejudicial to the health of children and is, in most cases, performed on minors, it violates the  Convention on the Rights of the Child . An  interagency statement on FGM,  issued by 10 UN organizations, was issued in 2008.

Prevalence

Available data from large-scale representative surveys show that the practice of FGM is highly concentrated in a swath of countries from the Atlantic coast to the Horn of Africa, in areas of the Middle East such as Iraq and Yemen and in some countries in Asia like Indonesia, with wide variations in prevalence. The practice is almost universal in Somalia, Guinea and Djibouti, with levels of 90 per cent or higher, while it affects no more than 1 per cent of girls and women in Cameroon and Uganda.

However, FGM is a human rights issue that affects girls and women worldwide. Evidence suggests that FGM exists in places including Colombia , India , Malaysia , Oman , Saudi Arabia  and the United Arab Emirates , with large variations in terms of the type performed, circumstances surrounding the practice and size of the affected population groups. In these contexts, however, the available evidence comes from (sometimes outdated) small-scale studies or anecdotal accounts, and there are no representative data as yet on prevalence. The practice is also found in pockets of Europe and in Australia and North America which, for the last several decades, have been destinations for migrants from countries where the practice still occurs .

Prevailing attitudes

Among communities where FGM is found, attitudes about the practice vary widely. Notably, in many countries there are high levels of opposition to the practice even among girls and women who have themselves undergone the procedure, and among boys and men who live with them, illustrating that many people in practising communities want to see an end to FGM.

In total, 400 million people - two thirds of the population - in practising countries in Africa and the Middle East say they want the practice to end.

Is the practice changing?

Overall, the practice of FGM is becoming less common. Countries like Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, and Burkina Faso have illustrate d that progress is possible, even in places where levels of FGM were once very high . However, not all countries have made progress and the pace of decline has been uneven. Most countries are not on track to meet the SDG target of eliminating FGM by 2030.

References

[1] World Health Organization, Eliminating Female Genital Mutilation: An interagency statement, WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF, UNIFEM, OHCHR, UNHCR, UNECA, UNESCO, UNDP, UNAIDS, WHO, Geneva, 2008, p. 4.

[2] United Nations Population Fund, 'Project Embera-wera: An experience of culture change to eradicate female genital mutilation in Colombia - Latin America', UNFPA, December 2011.

[3] Ghadially, R., 'All for "Izzat": The practice of female circumcision among Bohra Muslims', Manushi, no. 66, September-October 1991, ; Ghadially, R., 'Update on Female Genital Mutilation in India', Women's Global Network for Reproductive Rights Newsletter, January−March 1992.

[4] Dahlui, M., 'The Practice of Female Circumcision in Malaysia', paper presented at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, 10 May 2012, ; Rashid, A. K., S. S. Patil and A. S. Valimalar, 'The Practice of Female Genital Mutilation among the Rural Malays in North Malaysia', The Internet Journal of Third World Medicine, vol. 9, no. 1, 2010.

[5] Al-Hinai, H., 'Female Genital Mutilation in the Sultanate of Oman', January 2014.

[6] Alsibiani, S. A. and A. A. Rouzi, 'Sexual Function in Women with Female Genital Mutilation', Fertility and Sterility, vol. 93, no. 3, 2010, pp. 722-24.

[7] Kvello, A. and L. Sayed, 'Omskjering av kvinner i de forente arabiske emirater-er klitoridektomi i tradisjonell praksis et overgrep mot kvinner?' (Concerning Female Circumcision in the United Arab Emirates: Is clitoridectomy in a traditional context an assault against women?), thesis paper, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway, 2002; Al Marzouqi, W., 'Fatal Traditions: Female circumcision in the U.A.E.', Desert Dawn, vol. 22, no. 1, January 2011, pp. 6-11.

[8] United Nations Children's Fund, Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: A statistical overview and exploration of the dynamics of change, UNICEF, New York, 2013.

Notes on the data

Data sources

Nationally representative data on FGM are mainly available from two sources: Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). In some countries, data have been collected through other nationally representative household surveys.

A module on FGM was developed for the first time for the 1989-1990 DHS conducted in the northern part of what was then known as Sudan. After a few years, the module was modified and has been included in DHS for 23 countries to date. The first module on FGM was included in the 2000 MICS in the Central African Republic, Chad and Sudan. The third and fourth rounds of MICS (mainly conducted in 2005-2006 and in 2009─2011) generated updated FGM data from 16 countries, including 7 with no prior data (Djibouti, the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Togo). Over the last 10 years, UNICEF and ICF International have worked closely to standardize survey questions on FGM used in DHS and MICS.

Main indicators

The first indicator for measuring FGM prevalence is the percentage of girls and women of reproductive age (15 to 49) who have experienced any form of the practice. This is derived from self-reports. Typically, girls and women are also asked about the type of FGM performed, at what age they were cut and by whom. Most surveys include additional questions related to women's - and in some cases men's - attitudes surrounding FGM/C. In most surveys, eligible respondents are all girls and women aged 15 to 49. Exceptions include Egypt (DHS in 1995, 2000, 2003 and 2005), Sudan (DHS 1989─1990) and Yemen (DHS 1997), where the sample of respondents includes only girls and women aged 15 to 49 who have ever been married.

The second indicator used to report on the practice measures the extent of cutting among daughters of girls and women of reproductive age (15 to 49). In surveys up to 1999, female respondents who had at least one living daughter were asked about their eldest daughter: whether she was cut, the age at which FGM was performed, the type of FGM carried out and the person who did it. If the eldest daughter was reportedly not cut, respondents were asked if they intended to have their daughter cut. Starting in 1999, rather than asking about the eldest daughter, DHS and MICS began asking respondents whether any of their daughters had undergone FGM and, if so, how many of their daughters had been cut. This was followed by questions about the procedure (type, age at cutting and practitioner) for the daughter most recently cut.

Survey data on the FGM status of only one daughter cannot be used to estimate the prevalence of FGM among girls under age 15. To address this limitation, MICS and DHS in 2010 introduced changes in the standard methodology used to collect information on FGM among daughters. The new module asks all girls and women aged 15 to 49 about the FGM status of all of their daughters under age 15. As a result, prevalence estimates can be obtained for girls aged 0 to 14. A key point to be kept in mind is that the prevalence data for girls aged 0 to 14 reflect their current, but not final, FGM status, since some girls who have not been cut may still be at risk of experiencing the practice once they reach the customary age. Therefore, the data on prevalence for girls under age 15 is actually an underestimation of the true extent of the practice. Since age at cutting varies among settings, the amount of underestimation also varies. This should be kept in mind when interpreting all FGM prevalence data for this age group. Prevalence data on girls aged 0 to 14 can be used to assess the impact of recent efforts to end FGM since this is the age group most recently cut or at imminent risk of being cut.

Interpreting the data

Data on FGM inform policymakers of critically important variables in an effort to better understand the practice and develop policies for its abandonment. That said, these data must be analysed in light of the extremely delicate and often sensitive nature of the topic.

Self-reported data on FGM need to be treated with caution for several reasons. First, women may be unwilling to disclose having undergone the procedure because of the sensitivity of the topic or the illegal status of the practice in their country. In addition, women may be unaware that they have been cut or of the extent of the cutting, particularly if FGM was performed at an early age.

Information on the FGM status of daughters is generally regarded as more reliable than women's self-reports, since any cutting would have occurred relatively recently and mothers presumably would have had some involvement in or knowledge of the event. However, even these data need to be interpreted with a degree of caution. Mothers may be reluctant to disclose the actual FGM status of their daughters for fear of repercussions, especially in countries where the practice has been the target of campaigns or legal measures to prohibit it.

With increased availability of nationally representative data on FGM/C, including repeat surveys in several countries, trends in the prevalence and attitudes towards the practice can be analysed. Despite this, considerable challenges arise when examining trends, particularly when establishing a connection between programmatic activities and changes in prevalence levels over time.

First, prevalence can be compared from surveys in the same country from two (or more) points in time. Second, a trend analysis can examine FGM prevalence at one point in time across five-year age cohorts for girls and women aged 15 to 49. Finally, current prevalence among girls and women aged 15 to 19 and 'adjusted' prevalence among girls aged 10 to 14 can be analysed. Several important factors should be considered when examining trends in the practice:

Variations in the number of years between consecutive surveys. This can range from 1 to up to 20, depending on the country.

The number of data points available for each country. Patterns of change are more evident when several surveys are available, as opposed to two data sources.

The retrospective periods involved (that is, time lags). For instance, in the case of a country where girls are cut before 1 year of age, most girls in the youngest cohort (15 to 19 years of age) are generally reporting on an event that took place 14 to 18 years previously. Any change that occurred after this period will therefore not be reflected in the data.

The magnitude of change. Change can be gauged by looking either at the absolute difference (change in percentage points) between estimates or at the percentage change between estimates. Conclusions should be drawn on the basis of both measures.

Survey design and implementation. This could include, for example, changes in sampling frames, questionnaire content and structure, and language used to refer to the practice.

More detailed discussion of data collection methodologies and assessment of trends related to FGM can be found in: Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting: A statistical overview and exploration of the dynamics of change.

MICS module on FGM

MICS surveys have a standardized module for female genital mutilation.
Download the MICS module on FGM (PDF)

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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Statistics - UNICEF Data

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Female genital mutilation (FGM) refers to "all procedures involving partial or total removal of the female external genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons."[1] FGM is a violation of girls' and women's human rights. Around the world, over 230 million girls and women have been cut.

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The Truth About Female Genital Mutilation

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Contains links to national FGM clinics for FGM survivors in need of support

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Find out what female genital mutilation (FGM) is, why and where it’s carried out, what the health risks are, and where to get help and advice.

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Local and community terms to listen out for to help in identifying girls at risk

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Instigating Change

The National FGM Centre, established in 2015 aims to achieve a system change in the provision of services for children and their families who are affected by Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). In 2017, the focus of our work was extended to include Breast Flattening and Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief.

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National FGM Centre - Developing excellence in response to FGM and other Harmful Practices

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Instigating Change The National FGM Centre, established in 2015 aims to achieve a system change in the provision of services for children and their families who are affected by Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). In 2017, the focus of our work was extended to include Breast Flattening and Child Abuse Linked to Faith or Belief.

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Teaching about female genital mutilation (FGM) is a vital component of any school's approach to safeguarding and child protection. See below for some key information on teaching about FGM and the different statutory requirements to do so.

We've also published new guidance and lessons for upper KS2 and lower KS3 on this important PSHE topic, available exclusively to PSHE Association members.

Why teach about FGM?

Whilst it is adults' responsibility to protect children from harm, if children and young people are taught about FGM there's more chance they will report it.

Every young person - as a citizen in a diverse society - should learn about FGM, but especially children and young people at immediate or future risk of FGM, and young people who have experienced FGM (they may or may not be aware of what has happened to them).

Pupils need to know:

What FGM is and how it affects people

What the law says on FGM

How to manage the threat of FGM (for themselves or for others)

How to seek help and support if FGM has happened (for themselves or for others)

Is it a statutory requirement to teach about FGM?

At primary:

Whilst there is no statutory requirement for primary schools to explicitly teach about FGM, there is a rationale within the Statutory guidance for Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education for teaching about FGM at primary level:
By the end of primary school, pupils should learn:

about the concept of privacy and the implications of it for both children and adults; including that it is not always right to keep secrets if they relate to being safe.

that each person's body belongs to them, and the differences between appropriate and inappropriate or unsafe physical, and other, contact.

At secondary:

Teaching about FGM is compulsory is secondary school. The statutory RSHE guidance states that:

Being Safe: Pupils should know the concepts of, and laws relating to FGM, and how these can affect current and future relationships.

Pupils should be made aware of the relevant legal provisions when relevant topics are being taught, including for example: female genital mutilation (FGM).

The DfE guidance: Keeping Children safe in Education, 2021, also states that:
Governing bodies and proprietors should ensure that children are taught about safeguarding, including online safety, and recognise that a one size fits all approach may not be appropriate for all children, and a more personalised or contextualised approach for more vulnerable children, victims of abuse and some SEND children might be needed.

Schools should consider all of this as part of providing a broad and balanced curriculum... This may include covering relevant issues for schools through Relationships Education (for all primary pupils) and Relationships and Sex Education (for all secondary pupils) and Health Education. How should FGM be taught at primary phase and lower KS3?

Prevention is key

PSHE education is a preventative curriculum that develops protective factors through a variety of contexts. Pupils learn about keeping safe, rights and responsibilities, consent, respect, self-worth, communication and managing pressure. And these aspects contribute to protecting against FGM, even where FGM is not specifically mentioned or taught about.

Critical moments

To be effective, teaching should move from pupils learning only 'about' FGM, to equipping them with skills that will help keep them and others safe. Learning the vocabulary, language, strategies and skills to manage 'critical moments' in relation to FGM is essential.

Avoid shock tactics

E.g. Sharing graphic stories of being held down and cut. These approaches scare and can traumatize children and can also re-traumatise those who have experienced FGM. They may also trigger denial that FGM happens or has happened.

Create a safe learning environment

Be aware that pupils may be directly or indirectly affected by FGM; don't make any assumptions.

Ensure you 'distance' the learning so that pupils aren't asked to discuss their personal experiences or imagine themselves in a particular situation. Use scenarios or case studies that are based on characters instead.

Set clear 'ground rules' for class discussions. Pupils should be encouraged to use correct terminology for body parts and be respectful of others, even if they disagree with their opinions. Make pupils aware of the limits of confidentiality and of teachers' responsibility to safeguard them in the event of concerns for their safety or disclosures.

Signpost support

It's essential that pupils know where to go if they want more advice or have concerns.

Speaking to a teacher or adult they trust at school should be the first port of call but this may not always be practical, so they'll need to know other safe places to find information or seek help, such as ChildLine www.childline.org.uk/ 0800 1111 or the NSPCC free helpline: 0800 028 3550. They can also email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.

Our lesson plans

Our lesson plans support schools that are teaching specifically about FGM at primary phase (beyond the protective factors developed through other contexts) and those teaching about it in key stage 3.

What's included?

Both the upper KS2 (year 5-6) and lower KS3 (year 7-8) lesson packs include:

Comprehensive teacher guidance

PDF lesson plans and resources

Interactive PowerPoint lesson plans

Can anyone download/use the lessons?

All these materials are available exclusively to PSHE Association members. Become a member today for access to this and and our full range of resources, CPD and support.

How will these lessons help me to meet statutory RSHE requirements

The lessons have been designed to address all the relevant learning opportunities in our Programme of Study and the relevant content outlined in the Department for Education's statutory RSHE guidance.

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What schools need to know about FGM - we answer your most frequently asked questions.

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Learn about female genital mutilation and the work we do to support girls at risk of or impacted by it with the National FGM Centre.

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This lesson plan has been designed for students in key stages 1. The below pack contains a teachers guidance, including wording you can follow and adapt during the lesson. You also have the choice of using the powerpoint presentation below, or the animated video, which you can start and stop at the various points you need - making it a more interactive experience for students. We recommend you prepare by reading through the lesson plans to determine what else you may need to deliver the lesson. We recommend you:

Have 2 teachers to be present during the lesson, 1 to deliver the lesson and 1 to provide support to any pupils who may require it

Decide beforehand whether you wish to use the PowerPoint or animated video

Ensure video and audio is available

Consider using a flip chart or board

Print activity sheet 1: 'Growing Up', found in the lesson plan

Engaging parents

Engaging parents on the curriculum you will be teaching is not only important but also effective in creating lasting impact in communities in ending FGM, as it enables conversations around the practice to continue in the home and wider communities.

Effective ways to engage with parents about your plans to teach FGM in your school are to:

Share data in relation to violence against women and girls

Data in relation to FGM (you can use our FGM prevalence map)

The UN goal and UK governments priority to end FGM by 2030, and our collective objective to ensure that all children are safe and therefore need to know and understand this information

The need to empower children to have autonomy over their bodies to safeguard and protect from harm

Moreover:

Show the content of the lesson plans

Share the imagery and language that will be used

Share the ethos and style you will be using I.E., the lessons take a rights- based approach to teaching about the subject, and are intended to empower children to think about making a positive impact on society

Share that all lessons are age-appropriate and follow a spiral curriculum

Could you do this via parent focus groups, workshops, or coffee mornings/afternoons for example? Or perhaps termly assemblies or frequent newsletters work better in your school?

Frequently asked questions by children, and how to answer:
How many women and girls are affected by FGM?
An estimated 200 million girls and women alive today are believed to have been subjected to FGM worldwide, but we could never know the true numbers because of how hidden it is
Which types of FGM are most common?
Types I and II are the most common, but there is variation amongst different communities.
Where does the practice come from?
We don't know for sure, but it does predate Christianity and Islam - it doesn't have anything to do with religion
Why would someone want to hurt girls?
The adults who do this often haven't FGM lessons like you are having and believe that it can prepare a girl for marriage, or it can keep a girl clean

Parents are there to protect girls but sometimes parents can have muddled thinking, and think it's the right thing to do, but it's very harmful
Is FGM illegal?
Yes - FGM is illegal in the UK. It is illegal to perform FGM on a girl in or outside the UK, it is illegal to organise FGM for a girl, and it is illegal to force a girl to do FGM on herself
Am I at risk of FGM?
If something doesn't feel right for you, you should always speak to a trusted adult - sometimes a worry or concern can be a feeling in your tummy or sometimes in your head. It's always okay to speak to a teacher or another adult you trust - there is always someone there ready to help and support you.
What should I do if someone comes to me with a worry or concern?
You should always encourage and support them to speak to a trusted adult, and you can also share your concerns with a trusted adult too.
What can I do to end FGM?
There are lots of things you can do to help end FGM - and one of the main ones is to talk about it to raise awareness. More people need to know that the practice is harmful to bring it to an end.

If you are a professional working with a girl you are concerned is at risk/has undergone FGM please click here to view our referral guide.

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This lesson plan has been designed for students in key stages 2. The below pack contains a teachers guidance, including wording you can follow and adapt during the lesson. You also have the choice of using the powerpoint presentation below, or the animated video, which you can start and stop at the various points you need - making it a more interactive experience for students. We recommend you prepare by reading through the lesson plans to determine what else you may need to deliver the lesson.

We recommend you:

Have 2 teachers must be present during the lesson, 1 to deliver the lesson and 1 to provide support to any pupils who may require it

Decide beforehand whether you wish to use the PowerPoint presentation or animated video

Ensure video and audio is available

Print activity 1 - 'The Human Body' which you can find in the lesson plan

Engaging parents

Engaging parents on the curriculum you will be teaching is not only important but also effective in creating lasting impact in communities in ending FGM, as it enables conversations around the practice to continue in the home and wider communities.

Effective ways to engage with parents about your plans to teach FGM in your school are to:

Share data in relation to violence against women and girls

Data in relation to FGM (you can use our FGM prevalence map)

The UN goal and UK governments priority to end FGM by 2030, and our collective objective to ensure that all children are safe and therefore need to know and understand this information

The need to empower children to have autonomy over their bodies to safeguard and protect from harm

Moreover:

Show the content of the lesson plans

Share the imagery and language that will be used

Share the ethos and style you will be using I.E., the lessons take a rights- based approach to teaching about the subject, and are intended to empower children to think about making a positive impact on society

Share that all lessons are age-appropriate and follow a spiral curriculum

Could you do this via parent focus groups, workshops, or coffee mornings/afternoons for example? Or perhaps termly assemblies or frequent newsletters work better in your school?

Frequently asked questions by children, and how to answer:
How many women and girls are affected by FGM?
An estimated 200 million girls and women alive today are believed to have been subjected to FGM worldwide, but we could never know the true numbers because of how hidden it is
Which types of FGM are most common?
Types I and II are the most common, but there is variation amongst different communities.
Where does the practice come from?
We don't know for sure, but it does predate Christianity and Islam - it doesn't have anything to do with religion
Why would someone want to hurt girls?
The adults who do this often haven't FGM lessons like you are having and believe that it can prepare a girl for marriage, or it can keep a girl clean

Parents are there to protect girls but sometimes parents can have muddled thinking, and think it's the right thing to do, but it's very harmful
Is FGM illegal?
Yes - FGM is illegal in the UK. It is illegal to perform FGM on a girl in or outside the UK, it is illegal to organise FGM for a girl, and it is illegal to force a girl to do FGM on herself
Am I at risk of FGM?
If something doesn't feel right for you, you should always speak to a trusted adult - sometimes a worry or concern can be a feeling in your tummy or sometimes in your head. It's always okay to speak to a teacher or another adult you trust - there is always someone there ready to help and support you.
What should I do if someone comes to me with a worry or concern?
You should always encourage and support them to speak to a trusted adult, and you can also share your concerns with a trusted adult too.
What can I do to end FGM?
There are lots of things you can do to help end FGM - and one of the main ones is to talk about it to raise awareness. More people need to know that the practice is harmful to bring it to an end.

If you are a professional working with a girl you are concerned is at risk/has undergone FGM please click here to view our referral guide.

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Contains policy advice and conversation prompts and templates for use with girls at risk and parents

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Accredited training from National FGM Centre

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Accredited training from National FGM Centre

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Bloodlines

Bloodlines is an interactive theatre training to thousands of multi-agency professionals.

This is a reflective learning resource aimed at all professionals working with girls who could be at risk of/ have undergone FGM.

Listen to the Bloodlines audio file, watch the monologues of Jata and her teacher Mr Leigh, and use the questions provided to reflect on the storyline and what you would do.

Jata Wainaina is 15yrs and a student at Leyton Academy for Girls. A Kikuyu Kenyan from Naivasha, she arrived in the UK in 2008, with her mum, dad and sister Makena (now 11years old).

She has just said to her teacher, Andrew Leigh, that her family are going back to her auntie Filista's place near Nairobi in Kenya for a holiday during which Makena will be having a "party thing" that is not a birthday party and will need to relax after. Jata herself has had the party and does not want to go on the holiday.

Part 1. Jata and Mr Leigh

Reflective Questions for Professionals

What is Jata worried about?

How would Jata be feeling?

Who could Jata speak to?

Has Jata made a disclosure?

How can Jata be reassured and supported?

Reflective Questions

What are Mr Leigh's concerns?

How would Mr Leigh be feeling?

Does Mr Leigh have a mandatory duty to report to the police?

Which members of staff could Mr Leigh speak to for advice?

What should Mr Leigh do next/What would you do next?

If you are a professional working with a girl you are concerned is at risk/has undergone FGM please click here to view our referral guide.

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Bloodlines Monologues – National FGM Centre

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FGM in Europe: Exploring Young African diaspora women’s views, experiences & activism | FORWARD

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The objective of the quantitative study was to estimate the proportion of men who are in favour of the continuation of FGM in Europe as compared to their country of origin. The aim was therefore to find out whether migration and residence in Europe affects men's attitudes towards FGM. This is the full report of findings.

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Men Speak Out: "Men Have a Role to Play But They Don't Play It" Full Report - FORWARD

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The objective of the quantitative study was to estimate the proportion of men who are in favour of the continuation of FGM in Europe as compared to their country of origin. The aim was therefore to find out whether migration and residence in Europe affects men's attitudes towards FGM.

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‘Do No Harm’: Experiences and Impacts of FGM Safeguarding, Bristol Study | FORWARD

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The FGM/C Research Initiative - FGM/C Research Initiative

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The FGM/C Research Initiative is hosted by Orchid Project. It builds on the legacy of 28 Too Many by commissioning and curating global research on the practice of female genital mutilation and cutting.

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IKWRO - IKWRO Women's Rights Organisation

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There is a critical need for specialist support for Middle Eastern, North African (MENA) and Afghan women and girls living in the UK, who are at risk of "honour" based abuse, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, child marriage, domestic abuse and other forms of violence against women and girls.

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Gives relevant professionals and the police an understanding of the female genital mutilation (FGM) mandatory reporting duty.

Documents

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Details

A mandatory reporting duty for FGM requires regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales to report known cases of FGM in under 18-year-olds to the police. The FGM duty came into force on 31 October 2015.

This document gives relevant professionals and the police information on the mandatory reporting duty.

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Mandatory reporting of female genital mutilation: procedural information

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Gives relevant professionals and the police an understanding of the female genital mutilation (FGM) mandatory reporting duty.

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The NSCP publishes procedures and practice guidance, regular newsletters and learning bulletins which draw on learning from reviews and case audits. The following resources and information may also be helpful.

Adverse Childhood Experiences

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are highly stressful, and potentially traumatic, events or situations that occur during childhood and adolescence.

We all recognise that repeated and sustained adversity in childhood can lead to emotional harm but did you know it causes physical changes too? ACEs lead to a biological toxic stress response which then causes a trauma response to everyday life challenges. This is a normal natural response to toxic stress.

This then affects our physical psychological health, social and financial function meaning we're more likely to make poor choices such as health-harming behaviour and substance misuse. This effect can also lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes across the life course. All of this combined will have an impact on relationships and with socialising, learning and earning. Four or more adverse childhood exposures significantly increase the impact later on in life. See poster for more information and examples of what kinds of experiences are adverse (see attached poster).

Watch a short and powerful video clip on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) which illustrates the impact of ACEs and of equal importance to us as professionals, how noticing difficulties in children's lives and responding to them with support and early help can change the outcome for their adult lives.

Addressing childhood adversity and trauma infographic [PDF].

Child exploitation and online protection command (CEOP)

The National Crime Agency's Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command (CEOP) (formerly the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre) works with child protection partners across the UK and overseas to identify the main threats to children and coordinates activity against these threats to bring offenders to account. They protect children from harm online and offline, directly through NCA led operations and in partnership with local and international agencies.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Concerns Network (Operation Striver)

Nottinghamshire Police have introduced a new way to improve the sharing of low level non-emergency intelligence concerning child sexual exploitation between partner agencies in Nottinghamshire. An Operation Striver information sheet [Word] has been developed to record information that relates to people, places, activities, or vehicles which may be involved with or connected to CSE. Once completed the information sheet should be sent via secure email to cnm@nottinghamshire.pnn.police.uk.

Please note that this process does not replace the requirement to refer cases under the inter-agency safeguarding children procedures to children's social care or the police and that any immediate risks should be reported via 999 or 101 to the police control room.

The information provided will contribute towards the collation of intelligence regarding children and young people exposed to or at risk of CSE, the development of disruption strategies and inform current and future investigations concerning the sexual exploitation of children and young people.

This method of information sharing has already been adopted successfully within Nottingham City and I would be grateful if you would disseminate details of this approach within your organisation and encourage the use of the information sheet template as appropriate.

Should you have any queries regarding this please contact Hazel McKibbin, Service Manager, email: hazel.mckibbin@nottscc.gov.uk

More information

Contextual Safeguarding

Is an approach to understanding, and responding to, young people's experiences of significant harm beyond their families. The relationships young people form outside of their families (whether online or community) can sometimes expose them to violence and/or abuse. These threats can take a variety of different forms and children can be vulnerable to multiple threats, including exploitation by criminal gangs and organised crime groups such as county lines, trafficking, online abuse, sexual exploitation and the influences of extremism leading to radicalisation.

The NSCP provides a range of guidance and training on issues that fall under the heading of contextual safeguarding [PDF] and now a new booklet is available that provides the definition of each threat or risk, high risk indicators, steps to take and where to go for further advice.

County Lines

County Lines is the term used to describe urban gangs supplying drugs to suburban areas, as well as market and coastal towns, by using dedicated mobile phone lines or "deal lines". Gangs use children and vulnerable people to move drugs and money to these areas. Once caught up in County Lines, exploited individuals are at risk of extreme physical and/or sexual violence, gang recriminations and trafficking.

The Home Office have produced a Partners Pack [PDF] to help raise awareness. Download Local interagency guidance Child Criminal Exploitation (proceduresonline.com) covering criminal exploitation.

EMCYPSAS - East Midlands Children and Young People's Sexual Assault Service

EMCYPSAS provides medical care and holistic assessment following sexual abuse for children and young people up to the age of 18 years, or up to 24 years of age if a young adult has a learning disability. It offers comprehensive services from initial medical examination through to follow-up care and therapeutic support. The service runs from two centres in Nottingham and Northampton. Anyone can make a referral and the service accepts referrals 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, including bank and public holidays.

The single point of access is: 0800 183 0023

This is the channel to get the right help for children and young people at the right time. The advisor can offer you advice, or can guide you through the referral process, taking account of the referral pathway and local safeguarding procedures.

For guidance on medical assessments read our inter-agency safeguarding children procedures

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

FGM comprises all procedures involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It has no health benefits and harms girls and women in many ways. It involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, and hence interferes with the natural function of girls and women's bodies. The practice causes severe pain and has several immediate and long-term health consequences, including difficulties in childbirth also causing danger to the child.

FGM constitutes a form of child abuse and violence against women and girls.

The NSCP safeguarding guide on FGM provides further information and guidance and it can be found within the interagency safeguarding procedures. The Home Office has a free e-learning module which you can access on our external training opportunities page

The Serious Crime Act 2015 amended the FGM Act 2003 and introduced a mandatory reporting duty which requires regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wale to report 'known' cases of FGM in under 18s which they identify in the course of their professional work to the police. Please see the Home Office Mandatory Reporting of Female Genital Mutilation - procedural information [PDF].

Guidance for professionals and organisations

Indicators of possible Child Abuse (green card)

Indicators of possible child abuse (green card) [PDF] provides indicators of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and emotional abuse.

Information Sharing

Information sharing is vital to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. A key factor identified in many serious case reviews has been a failure by practitioners to record information, to share it, to understand its significance and then take appropriate action.

For more information please see the chapter within the Inter-agency Safeguarding Children Procedures and see the Information Sharing Questions and Answers [PDF]

In addition, see the HM Government Document:- Information sharing. Advice for practitioners providing safeguarding services to children, young people, and carers [PDF]

This advice is non-statutory, and has been produced to support practitioners in the decisions they take when sharing information to reduce the risk of harm to children and young people. It is for all frontline practitioners and senior managers working with children, young people, parents and carers who have to make decisions about sharing personal information on a case by case basis. It might also be helpful for practitioners working with adults who are responsible for children who may be in need.

Managing allegations against adults working or volunteering with children in Nottinghamshire

In Nottinghamshire the work of the LADO is undertaken by LADO Allegations Officers (AO). The LADO AOs provide advice and guidance to employers and voluntary organisations where there are allegations or concerns about a person working or volunteering with children and young people.

For more information, read

Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA)

Nottinghamshire Probation Trust works with the Police and Prison Service to manage the supervision in the community of the most dangerous offenders, including violent and sexual offenders. These three agencies are known as the Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements responsible authorities.

The National MAPPA Team has published the MAPPA Thresholding Document, a resource for any agency or individual with an interest in MAPPA, available via the MAPPA website. The purpose of this document is to provide all MAPPA partners with a clear, succinct and accessible guide to assist in deciding the most appropriate level of management. The different levels of management under MAPPA are set to ensure that resources are properly targeted at those offenders who pose the highest risk and that multi-agency meetings are focused on the most complex cases. The document contains a clear description of the management levels alongside a number of illustrative case scenarios to demonstrate how MAPPA partners can apply them.

Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)

Children's MASH is the county's first point of contact for new safeguarding concerns and has significantly improved the sharing of information between agencies, helping to protect the most vulnerable children and adults from harm, neglect and abuse.

MASH receives safeguarding concerns from professionals, such as teachers and doctors, as well as members of the public and family members. For those concerns that meet the threshold for social care involvement, representatives from the different agencies in the MASH and outside will collate information from their respective sources to build up a holistic picture of the circumstances of the case and the associated risks to the child or adult.

As a result, better decisions will be made about what action to take and support will be targeted on the most urgent cases. Feedback will also be given to professionals reporting concerns. Better co-ordination between agencies will lead to an improved service for children and families.

Neglect Toolkit and Separate Guidance

The neglect toolkit and separate guidance document are provided for professionals across Nottinghamshire and Nottingham City to use in partnership with families when there is concern that the needs of a child are being neglected. It is designed to enable honest conversations with families around areas of strength in their parenting and areas which need to change. The language in the toolkit has been refreshed towards a strength based approach, and additional sections have been added on parental conflict and positive values. The section on the parents/carers ability to achieve change has been expanded. The requirement to complete the whole toolkit has been removed, in acknowledgement that professionals are likely to have helpful information focussed in only a few areas of the toolkit. The toolkit and guidance have been produced jointly by the Nottinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership and Nottingham City Safeguarding Children Partnership.
Guidance For Neglect Toolkit [PDF] Neglect Toolkit [Word]
Pathway for non-mobile baby with bruising or a suspicious mark

This pathway describes the action that a practitioner should take if they become aware of a bruise or suspicious mark on a non-mobile baby. A new animation film, developed by a multi-agency partnership group led by Dr Becky Sands (Designated Doctor for Safeguarding), is now available to help promote the pathway. The film provides advice to practitioners about seeking an explanation from the babies carers and what action to take if no explanation is provided or an unlikely or inadequate explanation is given.

Please take a look at the animation and share it with your colleagues

The Bruising in babies pathway [PDF] can be found in the resources section of the procedures

Pathway to Provision

Pathway to Provision is a set of guidance for agencies to use when they are concern about a child. It identifies different levels of need and the responsibilities of those working with children and young people in addressing these.

Private fostering

A private fostering arrangement is one that is made privately (not through the local authority), for the care of a child under 16 years (or under 18 if the child has a disability), by someone other than a parent or close relative with the intention that it should last for 28 days or more.

To help keep children safe and support families, all parents and private foster carers must notify the local authority of their intention to enter into a private fostering arrangement.

Local authorities are required to satisfy themselves that the welfare of children who are, or will be, privately fostered within their area is being, or will be, satisfactorily safeguarded and promoted. After an initial visit to assess the suitability of the arrangement every child in a private fostering arrangement should be visited by an officer of the local authority at intervals of not more than 6 weeks in the first year and intervals of not more than 12 weeks in any second or subsequent year.

Sometimes private fostering arrangements are not notified to the local authority by parents and private foster carers and this can leave a child in a vulnerable position. If you believe a child is being privately fostered and the local authority is not aware please contact the MASH who will then be able to enquire if the arrangement falls under the private fostering regulations and if so arrange for children's social care to check the suitability.

Poster raising awareness of Private Fostering and booklet for Young People who are being privately fostered.

Quick safeguarding checklist for sports groups, voluntary sector organisations and faith groups

This safeguarding checklist [Word] is designed to allow you to check that the activities you undertake are compliant with current legislation and best practice. This sets out that policies and systems should be in place to safeguard and protect children from harm.

If you are part of a bigger organisation or affiliated to a governing body, you should first check your own, specific safeguarding guidance and training requirements, as this checklist is intended as a starting point for groups who are wanting to think about and develop their safeguarding arrangements and do not have resources supplied to them already.

Relationships Really Matter

We all have arguments and fall out with people, it's a natural part of relationships.

We all know that tension can happen for different reasons between parents, such as having a new baby, illness, losing your job, money worries, death of someone close or separating. When arguments aren't managed in a healthy way the tension can affect both the adults and children.

The information on Relationships Really Matter is about managing everyday disagreements in a more positive and healthy way.

It's not about abusive relationships. When a relationship hurts a person physically or emotionally this is a sign of domestic abuse.

For more information, go to Relationships Really Matter

Report Templates - Child Protection Conferences and Looked After Children Reviews

For any organisations and professionals who will be attending a Child Protection or a Looked After Children Review meeting, a report template has been designed for you to complete if you don't already have your own organisation report template.

To download a copy of the report templates below:

The templates have been completed in line with the strength-based agenda for these meetings.

Rethinking Did Not Attend

A short film has been developed by colleagues at Nottingham City Safeguarding Children Board to promote the message that children who miss appointments should not be recorded as 'Did Not Attend' and instead the term 'Was Not Brought' should be used. Using this wording acknowledges that children need an adult to take them to appointments and that if they miss appointments professionals should look at the reasons behind it and consider any safeguarding or welfare issues.

Safeguarding children and young people against radicalisation and violent extremism

Radicalisation is defined as the process by which people come to support terrorism and extremism and, in some cases, to then participate in terrorist groups.

Extremism is vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs. We also include in our definition of extremism calls for the death of members of our armed forces, whether in this country or overseas (HM Government Prevent Strategy 2011).

Keeping children safe from these risks is a safeguarding matter and should be approached in the same way as safeguarding children from other risks.

The NSCP safeguarding guide on radicalisation and violent extremism provides further information and guidance and it can be found within the interagency procedures. Notts & Notts City SCB Contents (proceduresonline.com)

A new website has been launched to raise awareness to members of the general public on hatred and extremism. The site is also accompanied with a national advice line that will provide direct access to Prevent specialists who are trained to guide people through the process of sharing concerns about a person at risk. www.actearly.uk

Safeguarding in Sport
Safeguarding in Sport - useful contact details [Word]
Safer Sleeping Risk Assessment Tool

In Nottinghamshire there are on average 6 deaths each year of babies where an unsafe sleep environment is a modifiable factor in the child's death.

Safer sleep advice is given out to all new parents in pregnancy and the first few days and weeks of a baby's life by universal health services. To prevent further deaths we need everyone working with families in Nottinghamshire to help ensure safe sleep advice is followed.

To help tackle this a safer sleep risk assessment tool has been developed, which is open for anyone to use. The tool explains what safer sleep is and helps you identify risk factors for unsafe sleeping. It also provides information to help you support families and includes links to resources that you can download for parents.

The tool and guidance for using it can be accessed here:
Safer sleep risk assessment tool [PDF] Safer sleep risk assessment guidance [PDF]
If you haven't seen it, there is a new animation on safer co-sleeping by Lulluby Trust on YouTube.

The Voice of the Child & Working with Young Children

The child's voice is a phrase used to describe the real involvement of children and young people. It means more than seeking their views, which could just mean the child saying what they want, rather than being really involved in what happens.

When considering capturing the Voice of the Child there are many resources available of which practitioners can use. Listed below are some resources of which Nott's County Council staff often use, which may also be useful for partner organisations .

These information gathering tools were developed to help primary school age children talk about (and record) three key assessment questions:

What is working well

What are you worried about

What needs to happen/how would things look in a perfect world

The tools can be re-used to see how circumstances have changed for the child.

Beginning with the 'Good Things', questions should be directed around positive things that the child enjoys doing. After this stage you should progress to discuss the 'Worries' and find out if there are things that worry the child or things that they don't like. Finally the 'Dreams or wishes' explores thoughts and ideas the child has about what would be happening if things were the way the child wanted it to be. A description is built up detailing who would be present and what types of behaviours would occur.

Reference: Derived from tools by Durie, M. (1998) Whai ora, Maori Health Development. Oxford University Press. Auckland. De Shazer, Steve (1985)

Working with children online

The guide helps your understanding of why online safety considerations are vital before you embark on your digital journey, whether or not you plan to engage with children and young people directly. It helps you to engage in online activity that is as enjoyable and safe as possible for the communities you work with, and particularly children and young people, and provides checklists and useful resources.

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The NSCP publishes procedures and practice guidance, regular newsletters and learning bulletins which draw on learning from reviews and case audits. The following resources and information may also be helpful. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are highly stressful, and potentially traumatic, events or situations that occur during childhood and adolescence.

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Suitable for Y6 and above

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What is FGM?

FGM stands for Female Genital Mutilation. It is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed without medical justification. In general, this is performed on pre-pubescent girls at any point from infancy into their late teenage years, but most commonly before the age of 15. It is a cultural practice and is illegal in the UK because it is dangerous and has no health benefits.

What does this lesson pack include?

This lesson pack covers the following success criteria:

To describe the anatomy of the female genitalia.

To recognise the specific acts that are classed as FGM.

To understand the reasons people may give for practising FGM, and explain the counterarguments for why FGM is a dangerous and illegal practice.

To know where to get help if you or somebody you know is at risk relating to FGM.

This lesson pack includes a PowerPoint, three printable activities with answer pages: Describing Female Genitalia, True or False Card Sort and FGM Scenario Cards. This pack also includes a Q&A document, Teaching Ideas and a Glossary, as well as our Question Box Label and Question Cards.

How can I get help if I, or someone I know, is at risk of FGM?

If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of FGM, call 999 and inform emergency services. If you or someone you know is potentially at risk, but it is less imminent, inform a trusted adult.

Charities such as the NSPCC have information and guidance around this topic that may benefit you.

If you have undergone FGM, it is crucial that you let your GP know. You may find it embarrassing, but your GP will not judge you and will want to help you. A GP can refer you to a specialist FGM clinic, where they might offer you healthcare that prevents future risk or harm, especially during pregnancy.

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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Lesson Pack

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FGM stands for Female Genital Mutilation. It is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed without medical justification. In general, this is performed on pre-pubescent girls at any point from infancy into their late teenage years, but most commonly before the age of 15.

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Created for Key Stage 3 and 4 citizenship and PSHE classes, these resources focus on dispelling myths around FGM. They also include the powerful stories of those who have been affected by FGM and those who are working to eradicate it.

What's in my download?

Female genital mutilation is often shrouded in secrecy and you may feel like it is a difficult and sensitive topic to tackle in class. To assist you, we've packaged:

The facts and myths around FGM in a quiz-style slideshow, below

Case studies including stories from both those affected by FGM and working to eradicate it

Teacher notes to help you to get the most out of these resources

Find out more about ActionAid's work to eradicate FGM

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Female genital mutilation (FGM) teaching resources

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Created for Key Stage 3 and 4 citizenship and PSHE classes, these resources focus on dispelling myths around FGM. They also include the powerful stories of those who have been affected by FGM and those who are working to eradicate it.

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Female genital mutilation is illegal. We've got advice to help you keep children and young people safe.

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5 facts about FGM:

FGM is abuse, and it's illegal in the UK

there is no religious or medical reason for FGM

FGM can happen at any age before marriage

FGM can be dangerous if there is blood loss and infection

if you've been cut or you're worried about FGM, help is available.

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Female Genital Mutilation is also called FGM, female circumcision, cutting or sunna is when a girl's external genitals (private parts) are cut away. This is abuse, and it is illegal in the UK.

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If you're worried about anything, big or small, we can help.
5 reasons to contact us:

we're not easily shocked by what you tell us

you don't have to go into detail if you don't want to

we'll never judge you

talking to us is confidential

we'll listen and support you in making the situation better.

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If you're worried about anything, big or small, we can help. 5 reasons to contact us: we're not easily shocked by what you tell us you don't have to go into detail if you don't want to we'll never judge you talking to us is confidential we'll listen and support you in making the situation better.

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FGM 'being performed on UK babies' - BBC News

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Ensure that pupils are made aware that running away from home is not a safe solution when dealing with problems.

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My family told me it was normal. A rite of passage. When I was eight my parents took me abroad and had me cut, it was the most painful thing in the world. When I was at secondary school Freedom Charity came and gave a talk on Female Genital Mutilation.

With Freedom's support Grace was able to ensure the safety of her younger sisters so that they did not suffer the same fate. With your help we can end Female Genital Mutilation in our lifetime.

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Female Genital Mutilation - Freedom Charity

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My family told me it was normal. A rite of passage. When I was eight my parents took me abroad and had me cut, it was the most painful thing in the world. When I was at secondary school Freedom Charity came and gave a talk on Female Genital Mutilation.

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Anita's Dilemma- suitable for staff training

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Anita's Dilemma- suitable for staff training

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Clever film which flips the story and examines the subject through the lens of boys being victims. Can be used to explore the role boys and men have in ending FGM.

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Useful clip which could be used in staff training or with post-16 students

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Things Not To Say To FGM Survivors And Campaigners

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Ann-Marie first learnt about female genital mutilation (FGM) while working for a Christian medical relief agency in Sudan. Here she met a girl named Fatima in West Darfur, who had experienced FGM at the age of five and was pregnant by the age of ten. She knew she had to do something, and her life's work since then has been geared toward speaking out against FGM, as well as supporting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of as many survivors as possible.

After meeting Fatima, she trained in cross-cultural studies, anthropology, gender and development, followed by midwifery in and fistula rehabilitation in Nigeria. Following her re-training, Ann-Marie volunteered for a UK anti-FGM charity, and then in a refugee camp on the Somali border in Kenya, before founding 28 Too Many in 2010 to specifically address FGM across Africa and the diaspora.

Prior to running 28 Too Many she qualified and worked as a psychologist and training consultant gaining over 30 years of experience. She has a background in corporate life and also ran her own not-for-profit change and counselling consultancy firm prior to moving into full-time volunteer aid work in 2004. As Founder and Executive Director of 28 Too Many she is a regular speaker on FGM and violence against women.

As well as leading 28 Too Many, Ann-Marie is a Church Mission Society (CMS) Mission Partner and, in 2017, she was licensed as a Lay Pioneer Minister in the Church of England. She holds a British Citizenship Award (BCA) for her overseas work.

In her book, Overcoming, she describes how she leaned on her Christian faith during her darkest moments to offer hope to survivors of FGM.

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Overcoming: My Fight Against FGM eBook : Wilson, Dr Ann-Marie : Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

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'Nimko's book is going to shift the conversation around women's bodies. Our bodies, and everything they do, make us who we are' -
______________________ What do you do when you're homeless and on your period? What does it feel like to have a poo following childbirth? How do we learn to love our bodies again after they've been abused? This is a call to arms. This is a cry to reclaim the narrative around our fannies and to refuse the taboos that silent us.

It's rude. It's improper. It's disgusting. All justifications that leave women's questions about their bodies unanswered. And activist Nimko Ali has had enough of it.

Following her own experience of FGM and rebuilding her relationship with her body, this important book contains the true stories of women sharing what they've always been told is secret and shameful - from east London to Ethiopia, from pregnancy to menopause.

______________________ 'A beautiful book with such a wide range of uplifting but often heart-breaking stories. Made us cry and think in equal measure' - Pandora Sykes, co-host of The High Low 'Nimko has blown apart all taboos, blown apart the echo chamber and included all women in the feminist conversation.' - Scarlett Curtis, author of Feminists Don't Wear Pink 'There is no subject too taboo for her to tackle. We should all be talking about our vaginas and she is leading the way' - Bryony Gordon, author of Mad Girl Nimko Ali is heroine for our time, she destroys the notion of things being too rude to discuss' - Caitlin Moran, author of How to Be a Woman

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What We're Told Not to Talk About (But We're Going to Anyway): Women's Voices from East London to Ethiopia

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Buy What We're Told Not to Talk About (But We're Going to Anyway): Women's Voices from East London to Ethiopia by Ali, Nimko (ISBN: 9780241987605) from Amazon's Book Store. Everyday low prices and free delivery on eligible orders.

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Kyi May Kaung is a Burmese-American writer based in the United States, noted for her searing depictions of life in third and fourth world countries and her renditions of strange points of view, such as the first person narrative of a stripper (The Lovers) or of a Lion who falls in love with a human princess (Beast).

She has written a novel, Wolf, short stories, novellas, monologues and a play and screenplay, Shaman, that was praised by Edward Albee.

She also writes poetry and has done dozens of readings in N. America, Europe and Southeast Asia. She has published two poetry chapbooks,Pelted with Petals: The Burmese Poems, and Tibetan Tanka, and is in the process of publishing more.

She is a winner of the William Carlos Williams Award of the Academy of American Poets and has won a Pennsylvania Council on the Arts Award for Shaman, when it was still a one paragraph outline for a play called Flashback. It has since had a script-in-hand reading in Washington, DC.

Kyi was also a Pew finalist twice in Literature, for Shee-Monkey goes West, an allegory in poetry and prose, and for her two act play Shaman.

She worked for 13 years in the overseas Burmese democracy movement,as well as being a senior research analyst on air, in international broadcasting to Burma 1997-2001. She then worked as a senior analyst for The Burma Fund, affiliated with the Burmese Democratic Government in Exile.

Ms. Kaung holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia in Political Economy and City Planning, respectively.

Her formal education informs the depth of understanding evident in her writings.

5-27-2014

www.kmkaung.com

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FGM: A Story about the Mutilation of Women (Short Story Series Book 2)

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An African gynecologist comes to give a lecture on FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) in Baltimore, MD, and gets drawn into an inappropriate relationship.

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Imagine for a moment that you are 6-years-old and you are woken in the early hours, bathed and then dressed in rags before being led down to an ominous looking tent at the end of your garden. And there, you are subjected to the cruellest cut, ordered by your own mother.

Forced down on a bed, her legs held apart, Hibo Wardere was made to undergo female genital cutting, a process so brutal, she nearly died.

As a teenager she moved to London in the shadow of the Somalian Civil War where she quickly learnt the procedure she had undergone in her home country was not 'normal' in the west. She embarked on a journey to understand FGM and its roots, whilst raising her own family and dealing with the devastating consequences of the cutting in her own life. Today Hibo finds herself working in London as an FGM campaigner, helping young girls whose families plan to take them abroad for the procedure. She has vowed to devote herself to the campaign against FGM.

Eloquent and searingly honest, this is Hibo's memoir which promises not only to tell her remarkable story but also to shed light on a medieval practice that's being carried out in the 21st century, right on our doorstep. FGM in the UK has gone undocumented for too long and now that's going to change. Devastating, empowering and informative, this book brings to life a clash of cultures at the heart of contemporary society and shows how female genital mutilation is a very British problem.

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Buy Cut: FGM in Britain Today 1st. Edition : 1st. Printing by Hibo Wardere (ISBN: 9781471153983) from Amazon's Book Store. Everyday low prices and free delivery on eligible orders.

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Based on a true story, this book charts the events of Mende's life, including FGM, and her life as a domestic slave trafficked to the UK.

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Mende Nazer lost her childhood at age twelve, when she was sold into slavery. It all began one horrific night in 1993, when Arab raiders swept through her Nuba village, murdering the adults and rounding up thirty-one children, including Mende. is a story almost beyond belief. It depicts the strength and dignity of the Nuba tribe. It recounts the savage way in which the Nuba and their ancient culture are being destroyed by a secret modern-day trade in slaves. Most of all, it is a remarkable testimony to one young woman's unbreakable spirit and tremendous courage.

Mende was sold to a wealthy Arab family who lived in Sudan's capital city, Khartoum. So began her dark years of enslavement. Her Arab owners called her "Yebit," or "black slave." She called them "master." She was subjected to appalling physical, sexual, and mental abuse. She slept in a shed and ate the family leftovers like a dog. She had no rights, no freedom, and no life of her own.

Normally, Mende's story never would have come to light. But seven years after she was seized and sold into slavery, she was sent to work for another master-a diplomat working in the United Kingdom. In London, she managed to make contact with other Sudanese, who took pity on her. In September 2000, she made a dramatic break for freedom.

Slave

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Amazon.com: Slave: My True Story eBook : Nazer, Mende, Lewis, Damien: Kindle Store

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This padlet is intended for use by professionals working with children, young people and their families within Nottinghamshire. Some information may still be of relevance to professionals who work outside of this area.

Each column is titled for ease of search

Click on the website link or photograph to open the web page/document

Use the search bar at the top right corner of the page or scroll right to see all topics.

Scroll down each column to find additional links/information, some of which may be useful to share with others as guided by the intended audience in the column titles and descriptions.

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ESHAW Hub Training Calendar for 2024-2025

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ESHAW Hub Training Calendar for 2024-2025

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ESHAW Hub Training Offer Academic Year 2024-2025

All training can be booked via Training & Events | The East Midlands Education Support Service (em-edsupport.org.uk)

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Here you will find resources and tools to support with every aspect of the team's remit.

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Schools Charter on Ending Harmful Practices

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Schools Charter on Ending Harmful Practices

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A useful tool to make explicit your school's stance on VAWG and harmful traditional practices.

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Schools Charter on Ending Harmful Practices

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Schools Charter on Ending Harmful Practices

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A useful tool to make explicit your school's stance on VAWG and harmful traditional practices.

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ESHAW Hub Padlet Evaluation - 2025-2026 

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ESHAW Hub Padlet Evaluation - 2025-2026 

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The Education, Safeguarding, Health and Wellbeing (ESHAW) Hub are always looking for feedback about how the Team has supported schools and partners so far, and how we can continue to support schools and partners in the future.

We have created a variety of online Padlets to help colleagues from our schools and partners find relevant and reliable information and quality resources for a range of different topics and themes from our team's remits.

We would appreciate it if you could complete this short evaluation form, please, so that we can understand whether the Padlets have been helpful for you and so we can understand whether there is anything that we can do differently to further improve the Padlets in the future. It would be helpful to know which Padlets you've accessed, what you've used them for and if there's anything you feel is missing.

The form should only take a few minutes to complete but will provide valuable feedback to our Team and our managers.
Your feedback will be anonymous, unless you choose to enter your name/email address.

Thank you.