Understanding FGM in Children's Homes (Level 2)

Recognising risk, responding safely and escalating concerns in residential child care

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Supporting children affected by FGM

Schoolgirl in uniform with adult hand on shoulder

A child affected by FGM may need medical treatment, emotional and therapeutic support, advocacy and a daily environment that protects their dignity. Staff should treat the child as a whole person, not only as a safeguarding case.

Plan support with the child, their social worker, health professionals and other relevant people. Be mindful around bathing, toileting, health appointments, family contact and cultural identity. Avoid conversations that may trigger shame or fear.

FGM: A survivor's story

Video: 3m 17s · Creator: National FGM Centre. YouTube Standard Licence.

This National FGM Centre video features Lucy describing her experience of FGM in Cameroon and how she later worked to stop the practice in her family. She says she and her twin sister were about 13 or 14 and were told FGM was necessary for them to be seen as mature and marriageable.

Lucy explains that her mother did not want it but felt pressured by cultural expectation. Lucy survived, but her twin developed a serious infection and died, a loss that profoundly affected the family.

Her message is that FGM has no benefit and should be challenged through education rather than silence. She does not express hate for her parents, noting they acted on beliefs they had been given, but she argues those beliefs must change to protect girls.

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Day-to-day support

  • Offer steady care: do not force the child to talk before they are ready.
  • Protect privacy: limit information to those who need to know.
  • Support appointments: help the child understand where they are going and why.
  • Notice distress: watch for sleep problems, self-harm, anxiety, anger or withdrawal.
  • Include the child: explain plans in age-appropriate language and listen to their wishes.

 
Optional: Not part of the course final assessment.
Another?

Good support after FGM is practical and dignified: privacy, healthcare, emotional safety, clear plans and adults who do not force retelling.

Ask Dr. Aiden

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Course Snapshot

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  • Length: 60 minutes CPD (1.00 CE Credits)
  • Appropriate for: residential care worker, waking-night staff, team leader, children's home manager, safeguarding lead, support worker, social worker, senior residential worker
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    • 10 questions, pass mark 80%.
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