A consultation on new female genital mutilation (FGM) statutory guidance for frontline professionals, which will include details on mandatory reporting, will be launched this week, Minister for Preventing Abuse and Exploitation Karen Bradley has confirmed.
The new guidance will help to improve the response of professionals, protect more girls at risk and increase the police service’s ability to prosecute individuals who commit this crime. It will come into force in the autumn
The announcement comes as Government prepares to mark the first anniversary of the Prime Minister’s Girl Summit – the first global summit to mobilise domestic and international efforts to end FGM and child and forced marriage within a generation. All the commitments made at the summit have now been delivered ensuring that girls at risk are now better protected than ever before.
Minister for Preventing Abuse and Exploitation Karen Bradley said: “Every girl has the right to grow up and make the most of their potential, free from the risk of FGM and child and forced marriage. That is why we have made protecting women and girls from violence and supporting survivors of sexual violence a priority. The UK has taken bold action to meet the commitments made at last year’s Girl Summit and I am proud of what we have achieved.
“Things are changing, and more and more courageous women and girls are coming forward. But there is more to be done, and ending FGM and child and forced marriage will not be easy.
“This Government is clear that we will not allow political or cultural sensitivities to get in the way of tackling abuse, whatever form it takes.”
Women, Equalities and Family Justice Minister Caroline Dinenage said: “The Government is committed to tackling and preventing the barbaric practice of female genital mutilation.
“Protection orders are an extremely important step in making sure young women and girls who face the threat of FGM are kept safe.
“These girls and the communities around them now know they will have somewhere to turn, that the law is on their side and help is out there.
“We will continue to work closely with community groups and help to raise awareness of FGM. We will not stop until this horrific practice is stamped out.”
