Children at risk of Female Genital Mutilation
The World Health Organisation defines Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as: ‘all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genital organs for non-medical reasons.’ Professionals have a duty to report ‘known’ cases of FGM in under 18’s which they identify in the course of their professional work to the police.
When a referral is received, the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub will determine the next steps under Section 47. See the West Midlands FGM procedure here: Female Genital Mutilation