Female genital mutilation: Help and advice if you or someone you know is at risk

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There were more than 5,000 new cases of female genital mutilation in the UK last year, according to latest figures.

FGM is illegal in the UK and it's also illegal to take abroad a British national for FGM, or to help someone trying to do this. Here's what to do if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.

  • If there’s immediate danger

Contact the police if you or someone you know is in immediate danger of FGM.

You should also contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office if you know a British national who’s already been taken abroad. Telephone: 020 7008 1500. From overseas: +44 (0)20 7008 1500.

  • If you or someone you know is at risk

Contact the NSPCC anonymously if you’re worried that a girl or young woman is at risk or is a victim of FGM. fgmhelp@nspcc.org.ukTelephone: 0800 028 3550. From overseas: +44 (0)800 028 3550

  • UK organisations

You can get help and advice in the UK from Foundation for Women’s Health Research and Development (FORWARD) and Daughters of Eve.

In England you can find NHS specialist clinics for FGM. In Scotland you can contact FGM Aware or AMINA - The Muslim Women’s Resource Centre.

You can also apply to get a protection order from the court to keep you or someone you know safe from FGM.