New FGM guidelines will help tackle 95% rise in Hackney since 2014
Hawa Sesay - Credit: Archant
Referrals for female genital mutilation (FGM) in Hackney have almost doubled in the last two years, new figures show.
Between March and November this year there was a 95 per cent increase on the 2014 figures, and a 16pc rise on 2015.
The statistics come from a public health report, which also reveals new guidelines have been created to help professionals understand and act on FGM.
The protocol outlines eight steps for officers to follow if they identify a risk of FGM and will be launched in February to coincide with FGM Awareness Week.
It was developed by the City and Hackney Safeguarding Children Board, Hackney CVS, the police and the children’s social care team.
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In 2013, Hackney social worker and FGM survivor Hawa Sesay started a helpline for other victims through her charity The Hawa Trust, working with the NSPCC.
She warned the Christmas period was often used as an opportunity to take girls to Africa for the operation.
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