Large rise in numbers contacting police over FGM

Police say there's been an increase in awareness of FGM Credit: ITV News Central

West Midlands Police has seen a huge rise in the number of people contacting them, concerned that girls may be at risk of FGM.

In four years the number of referrals has risen 17 fold. Figures obtained by ITV News Central show that in 2010 there were just five referrals. Last year that number was 41. And this year that number has more than doubled to 84.

But police say that’s down to an increase in awareness not an increase in people committing this hidden crime.

People involved in organising, carrying out or assisting FGM face 14 years in prison. FGM has been illegal in this country since 1985 but despite this there hasn’t been a single prosecution.

Police say they believe “cutting” is taking place in the West Midlands and say they are committed to ending this practice.

“FGM is child abuse. It is a barbaric act that has no justification in the world we are living in,” said Det Supt Tim Bacon.

Police are now urging anyone with information about FGM taking place in the community to call crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or the specialist 24 hour NSPCC helpline on 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk.