Providing a women- and community-led answer to supporting FGM and VAWG victims.
ABOUT OUR FGM WORK
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a traditional cultural practice in a wide range of communities across the world. It is not linked to any religion or any one particular ethnic or cultural group. It is an abusive, unnecessary and violent practice in all its forms.
We work tirelessly to bring an end to the practice of FGM and to offer compassionate and culturally-sensitive support to victims and those at-risk of the practice. We partner closely with local healthcare professionals (midwives and trauma counsellors) and social services to ensure a holistic and effective approach to support. We also work with the local Harmful Practices Operating Group and the London Violence Against Women and Girls consortium.
In addition to our work to support victims of FGM, we also regularly come into contact with victims of domestic abuse. Our position as a trusted community organisation means that we are often exceptionally well placed to provide support in these circumstances and help victims navigate access specialised support whilst contending with the deeply complex cultural and religious nuances around issues of marriage, divorce and gender roles.
"I have learned so much about myself and I find it much easier to talk about my problems."
Suhad M, Brent
OUR MODEL
This approach is fundamentally necessary because simply outlawing a practice like FGM tends to shame and bully the victims. This is particularly the case with FGM because of the notion that assumes that if a mother has suffered FGM then she will impose the same on her daughters. It is critical that change is driven from within the community as a primary strategy.
A lack of cultural sensitivity often results in the perception that the movement to end the practice is cultural, ethnic or xenophobic persecution because communities that are highlighted in the process are excluded from the conversation and have often had poor experiences with the police, statutory services and other authorities.
Our model emphasises culturally sensitive change driven by those with lived experience. Our team are a part of the community, understand the culture and speak the language. They use their common identity to ensure effective communication and understanding. We then work closely with specialist partners: health professionals, social workers, trauma counsellors and specialist domestic abuse agencies to ensure the best possible support for victims.
WHEN & WHERE YOU CAN GET HELP
FGM Clinic at
St.
Mary's Hospital
WESTMINSTER
Tuesdays
FGM Clinic at
Chelsea & Westminster Hospital
KENSINGTON & CHELSEA
Thursdays
FGM Clinic at
Queen Charlotte's Hospital
HAMMERSMITH & FULHAM
Fridays
One-to-one Support
By appointment
AS ARRANGED
Is it an emergency? Are you being threatened or hurt?
Call 999