Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are intentionally cut, injured or changed, but where there is no medical purpose for this to be done. FGM is typically carried out on young girls between infancy and the age of 15, most commonly before puberty starts. It is very painful and can seriously harm the health of women and girls. It can also cause long-term problems with sex, childbirth and mental health.
Religious, social or cultural reasons are sometimes given for FGM. However, FGM is child abuse, it is dangerous and a criminal offence. It is also a criminal offense to carry out vaginal tattoos and piercings on children under the age of 18.
What we do
Buttercups is committed to take action if we suspect that a learner is at risk of FGM. Where it is thought that a learner is at immediate risk, the police will be contacted or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, if the learner has already been taken abroad
We have a Safeguarding and Welfare Team who you can contact if you are worried about FGM
We review our learners' welfare regularly via telephone reviews and/or learner welfare visits (for 16-19 year old learners)
We will continue to make our staff aware of FGM through our Safeguarding Training
We provide advice and information on the Stay Safe section of our website including details of national organisations that can help
What you will do
I will talk to someone if I think that I am/will be a victim of FGM
I will talk to someone if I think someone else is a victim of FGM
I know that I can report my concerns to the Safeguarding and Welfare Team at Buttercups
Further support
If you are worried or have any concerns, please contact the Buttercups Safeguarding and Welfare Team.