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Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Safeguarding Policy
 

My Commitment to Safeguarding


I am committed to providing a safe, compassionate, confidential and non-judgemental counselling environment for all clients.

I recognise that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a serious safeguarding concern, a violation of human rights and a form of violence against women and girls.

I understand that individuals who have experienced FGM, or who may be at risk, can face significant physical, psychological and emotional difficulties.

My approach is centred on dignity, respect, sensitivity and the wellbeing of each individual.

I aim to work in accordance with relevant UK legislation, statutory safeguarding guidance and the ethical principles of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).


1. What Is Female Genital Mutilation?


Female Genital Mutilation refers to procedures involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia, or other injury to female genital organs, for non-medical reasons.

FGM has no health benefits and can cause serious short-term and long-term physical and psychological harm.

The effects may include:

  • Physical pain and ongoing health complications.

  • Emotional distress, anxiety or trauma.

  • Difficulties with trust, relationships or intimacy.

  • Feelings of shame, fear or isolation.

  • Psychological difficulties associated with traumatic experiences.

I recognise that every person's experience is different and that individuals may understand, describe or respond to their experiences in different ways.


2. Legal Responsibilities


|FGM is illegal in the United Kingdom.

In England and Wales, relevant legislation includes the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003, as amended by the Serious Crime Act 2015.

FGM is recognised as a form of child abuse and a serious safeguarding concern.

Certain regulated healthcare and social care professionals and teachers in England and Wales have a legal duty to report known cases of FGM in girls under the age of 18 directly to the police.

The application of this mandatory reporting duty depends on the professional's regulated role. Regardless of whether that specific duty applies to me, I recognise my wider responsibility to respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.

Where a child or adult may be at risk of significant harm, I will take appropriate safeguarding action in accordance with applicable legal and professional responsibilities.


3. Recognising and Responding to Concerns


I understand that individuals affected by FGM may find it difficult to discuss their experiences because of fear, shame, trauma, family pressures or cultural expectations.

If a client discloses that they have experienced FGM, or raises concerns that they or another person may be at risk, I will:

  • Listen calmly, sensitively and without judgement.

  • Take the disclosure seriously.

  • Respect the individual's dignity, feelings and experiences.

  • Avoid making assumptions about their cultural background, beliefs or circumstances.

  • Consider whether there is an immediate safeguarding risk.

  • Explain the limits of confidentiality where safeguarding action may be necessary.

  • Seek appropriate professional safeguarding advice where needed.

  • Make referrals to relevant safeguarding services where appropriate.

I will not carry out physical examinations or attempt to medically assess whether FGM has occurred.


4. Safeguarding Children and Young People


The safety and welfare of children and young people are a primary consideration.

Where I become aware that a child may have experienced FGM or may be at risk, I will take appropriate action in line with statutory safeguarding guidance and local safeguarding procedures.

This may include contacting children's social care or the police.

Where the mandatory FGM reporting duty applies to my professional role, I will comply with the relevant legal requirements.

I recognise that concerns involving children must be handled promptly and that safeguarding action should not be delayed unnecessarily.

I will also consider whether other children, including siblings, may be at risk.


5. Supporting Adult Survivors


I recognise that adult survivors of FGM may experience a wide range of emotional and psychological effects.

I aim to provide a therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences safely, at their own pace and without pressure to disclose information they are not ready to share.

My approach will be trauma-informed, compassionate and respectful of each client's individual needs.

Where appropriate, I may discuss additional sources of support, including specialist NHS services, safeguarding services or organisations supporting survivors of FGM.

An adult disclosing historical FGM does not automatically trigger the specific mandatory police reporting duty. However, any current safeguarding concerns, including risks to children or other individuals, will be considered carefully.


6. Confidentiality and Information Sharing


Confidentiality is a fundamental part of the counselling relationship.

I respect my clients' privacy and understand the importance of creating a safe environment where sensitive experiences can be discussed.

However, confidentiality is not absolute.

Information may need to be shared where there is a lawful and justified safeguarding reason, including a serious risk of harm to a child or another person, or where disclosure is required by law.

Wherever possible and safe, I will explain any safeguarding concerns and discuss proposed actions with the client.

There may be circumstances where information must be shared without consent, particularly where seeking consent could place someone at further risk.

Any information shared will be necessary, proportionate and handled in accordance with relevant data protection legislation.


7. Professional Boundaries and Ethical Practice


I am committed to maintaining appropriate professional boundaries and practising within the limits of my competence.

I recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity while remaining clear that FGM is harmful and unlawful.

I will not minimise, justify or condone FGM on cultural, religious or traditional grounds.

Where appropriate, I will seek professional supervision, safeguarding advice or additional training to support safe and ethical decision-making.


8. Record Keeping


Any safeguarding concerns relating to FGM will be recorded accurately, sensitively and securely.

Records may include:

  • Relevant information disclosed by the client.

  • Any identified safeguarding concerns.

  • Risk assessments and professional decisions.

  • Advice sought from safeguarding professionals.

  • Referrals or reports made to appropriate authorities.

  • Actions taken and relevant follow-up arrangements.

All records will be handled in accordance with UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and my Privacy Policy.


9. Support and Further Information


If you have experienced FGM, are concerned that you may be at risk, or are worried about someone else, specialist help and support are available.
 

NSPCC FGM Helpline

Telephone: 0800 028 3550

Email: fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk
 

NHS Support

The NHS provides information and access to specialist FGM services.

Website: https://www.nhs.uk
 

GOV.UK – FGM Help and Advice

Website: https://www.gov.uk/female-genital-mutilation-help-advice
 

Emergency Support

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 999.

Counselling is not an emergency service, and urgent safeguarding concerns should not be delayed until a scheduled counselling appointment.


10. Policy Review


I am committed to keeping my safeguarding knowledge and procedures up to date.

This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are significant changes to relevant legislation, statutory guidance or professional requirements.

Last reviewed: 20th October 2026

Next review: 20th October 2027

Practice name: Two Chairs Therapy

Contact email: two_chairs_therapy@outlook.com

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