Strategies for Supporting Survivors of FGM

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure that involves partial or total removal of the external female genitalia or other injuries or procedures performed to the female genitalia without a clear medical reason. It is a deeply rooted cultural practice found in many parts of Africa, the Middle East and Asia and typically takes place between birth and 15 years of age. It is often justified by traditions related to purity, marriageability and social norms. FGM is recognised internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women, with severe and lasting impacts on their physical, psychological and emotional well-being.

There are no medical reasons for performing FGM and doing so is a violation of the person’s human rights. It is illegal to perform FGM in the UK  and it is also illegal to take a UK national or a UK resident to another country to have FGM performed. However, despite the illegalities of FGM and increased awareness, it remains a significant issue in some communities. In the UK alone, government statistics estimate that 137,000 girls and women have undergone female genital mutilation and a further 60,000 girls under 15 are currently at risk of FGM. FGM is not just a major issue in the UK. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM worldwide.

Survivors of FGM often endure lifelong complications, including chronic pain, sexual dysfunction, increased risks during childbirth and severe emotional trauma. These women may also face social stigma or exclusion from their communities, which can further exacerbate their suffering. Given these challenges, it is vital to provide comprehensive support to FGM survivors to aid their recovery and help them reclaim their autonomy and dignity.

Although training on FGM is mandatory for GPs and other healthcare professionals in the UK, the current standpoint of the NHS is that only “a few staff need specialist skills and training”. Worryingly, 36% of nurses, health visitors, midwives and other healthcare associates in the UK who responded to a survey by Nursing Times reported receiving no training on FGM and 27% would not feel confident asking female patients about FGM, even in situations where they suspected it had taken place. A lack of knowledge, education and training is also a significant issue for other professionals, including social workers, law enforcement and educators. Improving strategies for support for survivors of FGM requires increased knowledge and education to help reduce stigma and increase understanding, empathy and support.

Today, we will offer practical strategies for supporting survivors of FGM in an effort to guide healthcare professionals and support organisations and community leaders in delivering medical care, psychological support and community resources, all while maintaining cultural sensitivity and respect for the survivors’ experiences. The objective is to empower survivors, address their needs and create a network of support that supports healing and advocacy.

Understanding the Needs of Survivors

Supporting survivors of FGM requires a deep understanding of their complex needs, including psychological, emotional, physical, social and cultural aspects that can shape their recovery journey. 

Psychological and emotional needs:

Survivors of FGM often endure significant psychological and emotional trauma. The experience of undergoing such a procedure, especially when performed at a young age, can leave lasting emotional scars. Many survivors report feelings of shame, anger, anxiety, depression and, in some cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For some survivors, the trauma is compounded by the secrecy or taboo surrounding FGM in their communities, which can make it difficult to express their feelings or seek help. Therefore, emotional support must be provided in a safe, non-judgemental space where survivors can process their experiences and emotions openly.

Physical health considerations:

The physical health consequences of FGM vary depending on the type and severity of the procedure but they often include both immediate and long-term complications. In the short term, survivors may face infections, excessive bleeding or even death due to inadequate medical care. Long-term complications can include chronic pain, scarring, recurrent urinary tract infections, menstrual issues, sexual dysfunction and complications during childbirth.

Many survivors require ongoing medical care, including reconstructive surgery or specialised gynaecological treatment, to manage these conditions. Addressing these health concerns is an essential part of the healing process and requires access to healthcare providers knowledgeable about the unique medical needs of FGM survivors.

Social and cultural challenges:

Survivors of FGM often face significant social and cultural challenges. In communities where FGM is a normalised practice, survivors may struggle with the pressure to conform to traditional beliefs, which can make it extremely difficult to challenge the practice or speak out about their experiences. Some survivors may be isolated or ostracised if they reject FGM or if they belong to a community where the practice is no longer widely accepted.

Additionally, FGM can affect survivors’ relationships, marriage prospects and self-esteem, as their identity may be closely tied to cultural and social expectations around the practice. This can lead to feelings of alienation or conflict between cultural identity and personal well-being.

Importance of a survivor-centred approach:

A survivor-centred approach places the survivor’s needs, autonomy and well-being at the core of support efforts. This approach respects the survivor’s right to make decisions about their recovery process and ensures that support is guided by their preferences, values and cultural background. A survivor-centred approach ensures that support is compassionate, respectful and aligned with each individual’s needs and experiences.

Survivors should be actively involved in decisions about their healthcare, psychological support and social integration. This approach emphasises empathy, active listening and the avoidance of re-traumatisation by giving survivors the power to define their own paths to recovery. Tailoring support to each individual’s unique situation helps to create trust between survivors and healthcare professionals and encourages empowerment.

Building Trusting Relationships

Establishing trust is essential when supporting survivors of FGM. Survivors often come from environments where the practice is normalised and they may carry deep feelings of trauma, fear or mistrust towards outsiders. Building trusting relationships is the foundation of effective support, as it creates a safe and respectful space for survivors to share their experiences and begin the healing process. Some ways to build trust include:

• Creating a safe and non-judgemental environment
  Ensure that the environment in which you interact with the survivor feels secure, private and free from judgement. Reassure them that their experiences will be treated with respect and confidentiality.
• Clear communication and transparency
  Be transparent about the goals of the support process and explain every step in a clear and accessible way. This helps reduce feelings of uncertainty and reassures survivors that they are in control of their care.
• Consistency and reliability
  Remember that trust is built over time and instant trust is difficult for people who have undergone this type of trauma. Regular follow-ups, consistent behaviour and honouring commitments show survivors that you are dependable. This helps them feel more comfortable sharing their concerns or needs.
• Avoid assumptions
  Each survivor’s experience is unique so it is important to avoid making assumptions about their feelings, cultural background or the extent of their trauma. Instead, ask open-ended questions that allow survivors to express themselves on their own terms.

Each survivor’s experience is unique so it is important to avoid making assumptions about their feelings, cultural background or the extent of their trauma. Instead, ask open-ended questions that allow survivors to express themselves on their own terms.

It can also be helpful to affirm the survivor’s courage for speaking out and validate their feelings, whether they express anger, sadness or confusion. Survivors often fear that their emotions will not be understood or that their trauma will be minimised. Acknowledging the impact of FGM on their life can build a stronger connection and sense of trust.

Being culturally sensitive is critical in building trust with FGM survivors, as many come from communities with deeply embedded traditions surrounding the practice. Understanding the cultural context of FGM without imposing your own values or judgements can help avoid alienating the survivor. Some ways to ensure cultural sensitivity include:

• Educate yourself about the survivor’s cultural background
  Before working with survivors, take time to research and understand the cultural, religious or social contexts that might influence their views on FGM. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and shows respect for their background.
• Avoid cultural stereotypes or judgements
  While FGM is a harmful practice, it’s important to approach it with sensitivity. Survivors may still hold cultural values that are important to them, even if they reject FGM itself. Avoid condemning or criticising their culture as a whole, as this could make survivors feel defensive or misunderstood.
• Use culturally appropriate language
  Be mindful of the language used when discussing FGM and related topics. Survivors may feel uncomfortable or distressed by certain terms, especially if they are viewed as harsh or disrespectful within their community. Whenever possible, ask survivors how they prefer to talk about their experiences.

Providing Medical Support

Supporting survivors of FGM requires a comprehensive approach to medical care that addresses both immediate and long-term physical complications. Healthcare professionals should conduct thorough assessments, offer tailored treatment and collaborate with specialists to ensure survivors receive comprehensive care.

The first step in providing medical support to FGM survivors is conducting a detailed medical assessment. This evaluation helps identify the type of FGM performed and any related health issues that may require immediate or ongoing treatment.

There are four classifications of FGM:

• Type 1: The partial or total removal of the clitoral glans (the external and visible parts of the clitoris) and/or the clitoral hood.
• Type 2: The partial or total removal of the clitoral glans and the labia minora, with or without removal of the labia majora (the outer skin folds that cover the labia minora, clitoris, vulva vestibule, vestibular bulbs, urethra and the vaginal opening).
• Type 3: Narrowing the opening to the vagina by creating a covering seal. Also called infibulation, the labia minora or labia majora is cut and repositioned to create a seal. Type 3 can also include removal of the clitoris.
• Type 4: This type incorporates all other harmful procedures done to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes, e.g. cauterisation, incision, scraping and pricking.

Because each type of FGM is extremely different and comes with different complications and health risks, the most appropriate type of medical support can differ. The healthcare provider will need to begin by taking a thorough medical history, including the survivor’s experience with FGM, any related symptoms and their reproductive and sexual health. A sensitive and respectful physical examination is necessary to identify any signs that FGM has taken place and any short-term or long-term complications.

Survivors may suffer from immediate health complications such as infections, haemorrhaging and pain. These issues should be addressed urgently with appropriate medical interventions, including wound care, antibiotics or pain management.

Some survivors may require reconstructive surgery to repair physical damage caused by FGM. Procedures like deinfibulation (reopening the vaginal opening for Type 3 FGM) can be beneficial for women who are unable to have sex or urinate properly or are at risk during childbirth. 

FGM can lead to a range of long-term health complications that require ongoing medical attention. Addressing these complications is essential for improving survivors’ quality of life. Long-term health complications can include:

• Chronic pain
  Many survivors experience chronic pain due to nerve damage or scar tissue. Pain management strategies, including physical therapy, pain relief medications or surgical interventions can be offered to help alleviate this pain.
• Urinary and menstrual issues
  FGM can lead to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), difficulty urinating and menstrual problems, such as painful menstruation or obstruction of menstrual flow. These issues may require medical management, including catheterisation, medications or corrective surgery to address anatomical abnormalities.
• Sexual health and dysfunction
  Sexual dysfunction, including pain during intercourse and a loss of sexual pleasure, is a common issue for FGM survivors. Sexual health counselling, pelvic floor therapy and reconstructive surgery may help improve sexual function and address psychological barriers to sexual intimacy.
• Childbirth complications
  FGM can pose significant risks during pregnancy and childbirth, including prolonged labour, tearing and increased rates of caesarean sections. It is critical to offer specialised prenatal care to survivors and ensure that healthcare providers are prepared to manage childbirth complications related to FGM. Access to deinfibulation services prior to delivery may also be necessary.

Providing effective medical care to FGM survivors often requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves collaborating with a range of specialists to ensure all aspects of the survivor’s health are addressed. This can include:

• Gynaecologists and urologists
• Mental health professionals
• Sexual health specialists
• Pain management specialists
• Obstetricians

Psychological and Emotional Support

Survivors of FGM face profound psychological and emotional challenges as they cope with difficulties such as trauma, shame and isolation. To support healing and resilience, emotional support that includes trauma-informed therapeutic approaches, counselling and access to community-based resources is essential. This support empowers survivors to process their experiences, rebuild their self-esteem and move forward in their recovery journey.

FGM is often a traumatic experience and many survivors develop symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges. Addressing this trauma through specialised therapeutic approaches can be instrumental in helping survivors recover emotionally. Therapeutic approaches may include:

• Trauma-informed care
  A trauma-informed approach recognises that FGM survivors have experienced a significant violation of their bodily autonomy and trust. In this approach, therapists ensure that interactions do not re-traumatise survivors and that therapy is paced according to the survivor’s comfort. Practitioners acknowledge the trauma’s impact and use empathetic, non-judgemental techniques to support the healing process.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  CBT is an evidence-based approach that helps survivors challenge and reframe negative thoughts and beliefs stemming from their trauma. It can be highly effective in managing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression by helping survivors regain control over intrusive thoughts and emotional responses.
• Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  EMDR is a therapeutic technique that has proven effective for individuals experiencing trauma-related symptoms. It helps survivors process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity. For FGM survivors, EMDR can help alleviate flashbacks, nightmares and other symptoms of unresolved trauma.

One-on-one counselling offers survivors the opportunity to speak freely about their experiences in a confidential and supportive environment. Counselling helps survivors address a range of emotions, from anger and grief to confusion and identity struggles. Working with a therapist who understands the cultural and social implications of FGM can make the process more effective. In some cases, survivors may benefit from family counselling, especially when FGM is a culturally entrenched practice within their family or community. Family therapy can help survivors communicate their feelings, improve understanding and heal relational rifts caused by differing views on FGM.

Support groups and community resources play a vital role in providing survivors with social connection and shared experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and offering peer support. Peer-led support groups create a safe space for survivors to share their stories, learn from others and gain strength from a community of individuals who have undergone similar experiences. Support groups may be structured around different needs, including emotional recovery, parenting after FGM or reproductive health concerns.

Some options for support include:

• National FGM Support Clinics (NFGMSCs)
  NFGMSCs are community-based clinics with all-female teams that provide a variety of support services to women who have undergone FGM. This includes physical assessment and treatment, emotional support, counselling, information and FGM health advocates. These clinics are available across the UK.
• The Dahlia Project
  The Dahlia Project offers free therapeutic support groups and individual counselling for survivors of FGM. They also provide advocacy, community education and training sessions to therapists and frontline professionals and aim to raise awareness of FGM.

Empowering Survivors

Empowering survivors of FGM is an essential aspect of their recovery and healing process. It involves helping them regain control over their lives, make informed decisions about their well-being and access opportunities that promote self-sufficiency. Promoting autonomy, encouraging active participation in advocacy and support networks and providing educational and employment resources are essential to this empowerment process.

Empowering FGM survivors begins with recognising and supporting their right to make decisions about their own lives, including their healthcare, emotional recovery and social engagement. Key strategies include:

• Informed decision-making
  Ensure that survivors are fully informed about all medical, psychological and social support options available to them. This includes explaining procedures, treatment plans and therapeutic approaches in clear, accessible language. Survivors should feel empowered to ask questions, express concerns and ultimately make decisions based on their own preferences and values.
• Respecting personal boundaries
  Every survivor’s experience is unique and some may be hesitant to engage in certain types of support or discussions. Respect survivors’ boundaries by allowing them to decide what aspects of their experience they want to address and when they feel ready. This demonstrates respect for their autonomy and helps avoid re-traumatisation.
• Promoting agency in healthcare
  Encouraging survivors to take an active role in their healthcare decisions can be empowering. For example, allowing them to choose their healthcare providers, treatment plans or whether to pursue reconstructive surgery helps reinforce their sense of control over their bodies and their recovery.
• Self-advocacy
  Teaching survivors self-advocacy skills can help them communicate their needs and assert their rights in healthcare, legal and social contexts. This can include training on how to navigate healthcare systems, understand legal rights related to FGM or advocate for themselves in social settings where they may feel judged or marginalised.

Support networks and advocacy initiatives provide survivors with a sense of community and the opportunity to take an active role in raising awareness about FGM. Encouraging participation in these networks can be deeply empowering for survivors and give them the strength to use their experiences to help others and advocate for broader social change.

Many survivors find empowerment in advocating for the rights of other women and girls affected by FGM. Encouraging survivors to participate in or lead advocacy campaigns, speak at public forums or engage with community initiatives can help amplify their voices and bring about positive social change. Advocacy also allows survivors to reclaim their narrative and create a shift from victimhood to a position of agency and leadership.

Additionally, some survivors may want to take an active role in policy discussions around FGM and contribute their experiences to help shape legislation, healthcare guidelines or social services for others. Providing training in public speaking, community organising and policy advocacy can support survivors in becoming powerful advocates for systemic change.

Empowering FGM survivors also involves addressing the socio-economic challenges they may face due to the physical, psychological and social impacts of FGM. Access to education, vocational training and employment opportunities is key to promoting self-sufficiency and building a brighter future. Some resources for education and employment that could be beneficial include:

• Educational opportunities
  Many survivors of FGM may have had limited access to formal education due to early marriage, cultural restrictions or the trauma they experienced. Providing access to educational programmes, such as traditional schooling, adult education classes or online learning platforms, can open new pathways for survivors.
• Mentorship and job placement services
  Survivors may benefit from mentorship programmes that connect them with professionals in their chosen field and provide guidance and support as they transition into the workforce. Job placement services can also help survivors find meaningful employment and offer them financial independence and a sense of purpose.

Collaborating with Community Resources

Collaborating with community resources is an important aspect of supporting survivors of FGM. By partnering with local organisations, engaging with cultural and faith-based communities and building strong support networks, healthcare professionals, social workers and advocates can create a comprehensive, survivor-centred approach. Community collaboration not only improves the services available to survivors but also promotes cultural sensitivity and ensures support efforts are sustainable and effective.

Local organisations play a key role in supporting FGM survivors and offering culturally appropriate services that address both physical and emotional needs. These organisations often have a deep understanding of the specific challenges faced by survivors in their communities and can provide targeted assistance. Forming partnerships with key organisations can strengthen support efforts. Collaborative efforts may include sharing resources, coordinating services and developing joint programmes to meet the needs of survivors. Establishing an effective referral system between organisations ensures survivors can access a range of services seamlessly. A well-coordinated network allows survivors to be referred to specialised care, such as reconstructive surgery, trauma therapy or legal advocacy, without facing unnecessary delays or complications.

In many communities, faith or cultural leaders hold significant influence. By engaging these leaders in discussions about the harms of FGM and involving them in survivor support efforts, healthcare providers and activists can help create a more welcoming environment for survivors. Community-based interventions, when led by trusted figures, can reduce stigma, challenge harmful norms and encourage survivors to seek help.

Training and Education for Professionals

Professionals who work with survivors of FGM play a pivotal role in their recovery and empowerment. Providing specialised training and ongoing education equips healthcare providers, social workers, legal professionals and educators with the skills needed to offer compassionate, culturally sensitive and trauma-informed care. Training ensures that professionals understand the complex physical, psychological and social implications of FGM and are able to respond effectively to survivors’ needs.

Survivors of FGM often face a range of unique challenges, including physical complications, psychological trauma and social stigma. Professionals who interact with these survivors must be adequately prepared to provide care that is respectful, empathetic and aligned with best practices. 

Training and education should focus on:

• How to provide trauma-informed care
  Survivors of FGM have often experienced trauma, both from the procedure itself and from the emotional and social repercussions. Professionals must be trained to adopt a trauma-informed approach that prioritises safety, trust and empowerment. This includes recognising signs of trauma, avoiding re-traumatisation and creating an environment where survivors feel supported and respected.
• Cultural sensitivity
  FGM is deeply rooted in certain cultural and religious traditions. It is essential for professionals to approach the issue with cultural sensitivity and avoid judgement while still providing necessary care and support. Training in cultural competence helps professionals understand the context in which FGM occurs and enables them to work collaboratively with survivors and their communities in a respectful manner.
• How to provide comprehensive care
  FGM has long-term health impacts, including reproductive issues, chronic pain and psychological distress. Professionals working with survivors need to be trained in recognising and addressing these complications, often through interdisciplinary collaboration. Medical professionals, in particular, should be skilled in performing specialised examinations, diagnosing complications and offering appropriate treatment or referrals, such as reconstructive surgery or trauma therapy.
• Ethical and legal knowledge
  Professionals must be well-versed in the legal aspects of FGM, including mandatory reporting obligations, human rights protections and the laws surrounding FGM in their jurisdiction. Training in ethical considerations ensures that survivors’ rights and confidentiality are upheld and professionals are equipped to navigate complex situations involving family or cultural pressures.

Several organisations and educational institutions offer training programmes and resources designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to work with FGM survivors. These programmes typically focus on medical, psychological, social and legal aspects of care.

• UK Government FGM E-Learning Programme
  The UK Government, in collaboration with Health Education England, has developed a free FGM e-learning programme for professionals. The course is designed for a broad range of practitioners, including healthcare professionals, teachers, social workers and law enforcement. The e-learning programme includes modules on understanding FGM, the health implications, legal responsibilities (including mandatory reporting), safeguarding and how to engage with families and communities. The course is free and can be accessed online by any UK professional working with children or families.

• National FGM Centre (NSPCC)
  The National FGM Centre, in partnership with NSPCC, provides a variety of resources and training aimed at frontline professionals working with FGM survivors and those at risk of FGM. This includes:

• E-Learning modules: These modules cover the basics of FGM, including how to identify those at risk, respond to disclosures and understand the law regarding FGM in the UK.
• Workshops and training events: The Centre offers workshops for professionals from different sectors, providing in-depth training on supporting survivors, safeguarding procedures and collaborating with community organisations.
• Resources for social workers: Specific resources are available to help social workers and child protection staff understand their responsibilities in protecting young girls from FGM.

• Health Education England E-Learning for Healthcare
  The NHS runs a Female Genital Mutilation educational programme created by Health Education England (HEE) and the Department of Health’s FGM Prevention team. It is available for free to all healthcare professionals, including GPs, nurses, midwives, health visitors and school nurses. HEE also provides resources for multi-agency safeguarding work, ensuring coordinated support between different services (health, social care and law enforcement).
• CPD Online
  We offer an FGM Awareness course on our website aimed at professionals who work with children and teenagers (e.g. teachers, nursery workers and social workers) and people who work in healthcare. The course covers the different types of FGM, FGM legislation in the UK, how to recognise the signs of FGM, how to recognise risk factors and how to report your concerns.
• FORWARD UK
  FORWARD (Foundation for Women’s Health Research and Development) is an African women-led organisation that provides comprehensive FGM training for professionals, particularly in healthcare, education and social services, to raise awareness of FGM and help them to support at-risk communities.

These programmes equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide trauma-informed, culturally sensitive care, while also ensuring compliance with legal responsibilities. Continuous professional development through these training initiatives helps create an informed, compassionate and effective response to FGM and could help to reduce incidences of FGM, aid in trauma recovery and provide more effective survivor support.

Case Studies and Success Stories

Looking at case studies and previous success stories from survivors of FGM can demonstrate how effective strategies can make a significant impact on their recovery and empowerment. 

Comprehensive Care at the African Well Woman Clinic:

The African Well Woman Clinic in London is a pioneering service within the NHS that provides holistic care for FGM survivors. It is a free, self-referral clinic run by women that offers both medical and psychological support. They also specialise in deinfibulation and addressing the long-term health complications associated with FGM. The clinic provides long-term care and counselling to ensure that survivors not only receive immediate treatment but are also supported through ongoing physical and emotional recovery. 

The clinic has a dedicated team of gynaecologists, midwives and mental health professionals who work together to offer medical, psychological and social care. Each survivor receives personalised care and the team collaborates to address both the physical and emotional impacts of FGM. Survivors are also referred to local community organisations for additional resources, such as legal advice or peer support groups.

The clinic staff includes individuals from FGM-practising communities, which helps to create a culturally sensitive environment that provides care in a non-judgemental way. This helps build trust with survivors who may feel uncomfortable discussing their experiences in traditional medical settings.

Community-Led Change in Kenya with FORWARD:

In Kenya, FORWARD worked with local communities to challenge and change the traditional practice of FGM. Through education, advocacy and empowerment initiatives, Forward UK partnered with community leaders to shift attitudes and support survivors. Forward UK identified and engaged local religious and cultural leaders who held influence over the community’s views on FGM. By educating them on the health risks and human rights violations associated with FGM, these leaders became advocates for change.

FORWARD also partnered with Sinyati Women’s Group, an Indigenous Maasai tribe working to promote the education and training of girls and women to advocate against FGM and child marriage, and Akili Dada, an organisation based in Kenya, to recognise anti-FGM champions through the ‘Accelerating African-led FGM Change Makers’ publication. In 1999, FORWARD also launched a project to mobilise and engage men against FGM in Africa. 

FORWARD also offers support groups and workshops for FGM survivors to educate them on their rights, health and options for future care. The initiative also targeted families to inform them about the consequences of FGM and promote alternative rites.

Conclusion

Supporting survivors of FGM requires a multifaceted approach that addresses their unique needs and challenges. A key strategy is adopting survivor-centred care, which focuses on the holistic well-being of survivors. This includes providing medical, psychological and emotional support tailored to each individual. Survivors should be approached with compassion and care that honours their experiences while empowering them to regain control over their lives. A trust-building approach is also essential, as professionals must show cultural sensitivity, respect and empathy to create safe environments where survivors feel supported.

Effective medical and psychological support is critical in addressing both the short- and long-term complications of FGM. This includes providing access to comprehensive medical care, counselling and community-based support. Additionally, empowering survivors by encouraging their autonomy, advocating for their rights and creating pathways to education and employment opportunities can improve long-term recovery and independence. Collaboration with community resources, including cultural, faith-based and local support organisations, is vital for creating a broad network of care and raising awareness within communities.

Specialised training for professionals is an indispensable part of the strategy, as it equips healthcare providers, social workers, educators and law enforcement with the tools they need to identify, support and protect survivors effectively. Ongoing professional development and culturally sensitive approaches ensure that the support provided is both compassionate and informed.

To continue making meaningful progress in supporting FGM survivors, professionals and community leaders must commit to raising awareness, advocating for survivor rights and expanding support networks. This involves investing in ongoing education and specialised training, which helps to ensure that those working with survivors are well-equipped to provide the necessary care. Equally important is empowering survivors to become advocates for change and allowing their voices to be heard in the fight against FGM. Collaboration between healthcare, legal and community organisations will strengthen the protective systems and safeguard at-risk individuals.

By coming together to challenge harmful practices and promote survivor well-being, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for survivors of FGM. This shared responsibility extends beyond healthcare settings and into the broader social landscape, where education and prevention efforts can help eliminate FGM for future generations.