New Islington Council guide will help professionals spot risks of FGM in children

A new guide will help professionals identify kids at risk of female genital mutilation (FGM).

The council’s risk assessment tool is a 12-page workbook for people working in the NHS, schools, police and children’s services.

It was produced in partnership with Manor Gardens Welfare Trust.

Prominent FGM campaigner Leyla Hussein attended the launch this week. She said: “For too long girls at risk have been let down and not given the support they need. Going forwards I hope this tool gives those who are in position to take action and prevent FGM the knowledge and confidence to do so.”

Rosalind Jerram, FGM chief at Manor Gardens, added: “Whilst many professionals in Islington know what FGM is, we realize from our own experience that actually having the confidence and knowledge to ask the right questions can be difficult.

“This tool will now be available to help professionals have the knowledge and confidence to investigate risk.

Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz, Islington’s executive member for community development, said: “We’re committed to creating a borough where no form of abuse is tolerated, and where people affected can get the help they need.”