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More than 500 victims of FGM identified in Bristol in last year alone
Health bosses across the region have vowed to end female genital mutilation (FGM) as hundreds of new cases are reported.
It comes after figures from NHS Digital suggest that the number of new victims identified by health professionals is increasing.
In Bristol, around 535 victims of FGM – where female genitals are cut, injured or changed for no medical reason – were seen by doctors, nurses or midwives over the last year.
is needed now More than ever
Of those, around 200 were having their injuries recorded by NHS services for the first time, according to data from the Press Association’s Radar unit.
The data also showed that there were at least two new victims reported in North Somerset and three in South Gloucestershire, although for areas where few cases were reported, numbers have been obscured to prevent identification.
Bristol’s Fahma Mohamed led a national campaign against FGM
Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (BNSSG CCG) is a leader in the effort to raise awareness of the complications for women’s health issues associated with FGM.
A spokesman for the CCG said: “Mandatory reporting is key in allowing us to put the right services in place to ensure healthy, safe outcomes for affected women.
“The latest figures demonstrate the confidence that the community has in talking to healthcare professionals.
“We will continue to work closely with communities and our partners to protect women and girls and end FGM.”
The practice is illegal in the UK, and carrying out FGM or assisting in it being conducted, either in the UK or abroad, can be punished with up to 14 years in prison.
And health professionals have a mandatory duty to report any case of FGM they see to the police and social care.
As well as providing treatment for injuries sustained through FGM, NHS services also advise patients on the illegality of the practice, and provide advice on its long-term health implications.
If you have any concerns regarding FGM, call the Integrate UK free 24-hour helpline on 0800 028 3550 or email fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk. For further information on help and support available, visit: www.integrateuk.org/advice.
If you, or someone you know is in immediate risk of harm, call the emergency services by dialling 999.
Kate Wilson is a local democracy reporter for Bristol and Joseph Hook is a Radar data reporter.
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