NSPCC - Female genital mutilation (FGM) helpline

Female genital mutilation is a form of child abuse common to some African, Asian and Middle Eastern communities in the UK.

This illegal and life-threatening initiation ritual can leave young victims in agony and with physical and psychological problems that can continue into adulthood.

Carried out in secret and often without anaesthetic it involves the partial or total removal of the external female genital organs.

Victims are usually aged between four and ten, but some are babies.

Contact dedicated helpline for advice and support. Our helpline will give advice, information and support for anyone concerned that a child's welfare is at risk because of female genital mutilation.

Though callers' details can remain anonymous, any information that could protect a child from abuse will be passed to the police or social services.

The Metropolitan Police force is also supporting the FGM helpline as part of its crime prevention work and has provided training to the NSPCC.

If you are worried that a child may be at risk of FGM, you can contact our 24 hour helpline anonymously on 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.

Over 1,700 victims were referred to specialist clinics in the last two years*.

However, we believe the true number of victims is even higher as only a tiny fraction come forward for medical help. Those who do are usually adults with maternity problems.