What is Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)?

FGM is when a female's genitals are deliberately altered or removed for non-medical reasons. It's also known as 'female circumcision' or 'cutting', but has many other names.

FGM is a form of child abuse. It's dangerous and a criminal offence in the UK. We know:

• there are no medical reasons to carry out FGM
• it's often performed by someone with no medical training, using instruments such as knives, scalpels, scissors, glass or razor blades
• children are rarely given anaesthetic or antiseptic treatment and are often forcibly restrained
• it's used to control female sexuality and can cause long-lasting damage to physical and emotional health.

FGM can happen at different times in a girl or woman's life, including:

• when a baby is new-born
• during childhood or as a teenager
• just before marriage
• during pregnancy
• after the birth of a child
• in a new abusive relationship

Lets Protect Our Girls Campaign – NSPCC/Home Office

Further information and Support

If you are at risk of being cut, or a child you know is at risk, please ask for immediate help by contacting the City of Doncaster Council's children's services or the NSPCC FGM helpline. Click here for more information:  Female Genital Mutilation - Prevent & Protect | NSPCC

Or call the NSPCC FGM helpline: 0800 028 3550

In an emergency call South Yorkshire Police by dialling 999.  Visit the South Yorkshire Police website: Female genital mutilation (FGM) | South Yorkshire Police

The City of Doncaster Council's Children’s Services can be contacted on 01302 737777 between 8:30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours call the Council on 01302 796000.

If you are 16 years old or over you can also call the Domestic Abuse Hub on 01302 737080. The helpline is open Monday - Friday 9am-4.30pm.  The domestic abuse hub can support people aged 16 years and older who are at risk and can also support people that have experienced this trauma in the past.  

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