Since the mandatory duty for reporting Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) came into effect on 31 October last year, there have been tentative signs that the numbers of reports are increasing alongside applications for protection orders. But safeguarding experts say more training is needed before all professionals are confident about their new responsibilities.
Under the duty, regulated health and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales are obliged to report to the police “known” cases of FGM in under-18s to the police – where the practitioner has observed physical signs of FGM or a victim has disclosed the abuse.
Reports must be made before the close of the next working day. Failure to do so could result in disciplinary measures and ultimately lead to professionals being barred from working. Detailed guidance on mandatory reporting was published by the Home Office in October 2015.
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