Legality of FGM

FGM is illegal in the UK and is a form of child abuse.

It is against the law to:

• Carry out FGM (including taking a child abroad for this)
• Help a girl carry out FGM on herself
• Help anyone carry out FGM in the UK
• Help anyone perform FGM outside the UK on a UK national or resident
• Not protect a girl from FGM if you are responsible for her

Anyone who breaks these laws can face a large fine and a prison sentence.

If you are worried that someone may be at risk of FGM, you should tell the police by calling 101. They will look into it and help keep the person safe.

There are also legal orders to protect girls at risk of FGM. Breaking one of these orders is a crime.