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.
I don’t think the figures show the practice is increasing it’s about the awareness of professionals. For me it’s not about the prosecutions but about prevention and making sure this stops happening to young girls.
– Detective Constable Gillian Squires
This is a crime that is perpetrated by families on their daughters, so this is one of the reasons it’s very very difficult to get information about cases of FGM being planned or being arranged.
You’re talking about potential victims coming forward to tell the police and other authorities about their family members.
– Detective Superintendent Tim Bacon, West Midlands Police
“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