Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a serious safeguarding concern. It is recognised as a form of child abuse and a criminal offence in the UK. At BPP, the safety and wellbeing of every student, as well as the communities connected to them, are a priority.
FGM is recognised in UK law as a severe violation of human rights. Every girl and woman has the right to make decisions about her own body, including the right to say no to FGM.
What Is FGM?
FGM involves the deliberate cutting, injury, or alteration of female genitalia for nonmedical reasons. It may also be referred to as:
“Female circumcision”
“Sunna”
“Gudniin”
Other cultural or traditional terms within specific communities
In most cases (over 90%) FGM is carried out on girls under the age of 18, often without consent or understanding.
Every girl and woman has the right to make decisions about her own body, including the right to say no to FGM.
FGM and BPP Students
As a BPP student, you may:
Have personal concerns
Know someone at risk
Be aware of pressures within your community
Travel abroad for family, cultural, or extended visits
Notice someone discussing plans or showing signs that raise concern
When Should You Seek Help?
If you:
Have experienced FGM
Know someone who has been affected
Believe someone (including a younger sibling or community member) may be at risk
It is vital to seek help as soon as possible.
FGM is recognised in UK law as a severe violation of human rights, and safeguarding professionals, including those at BPP, have a responsibility to take concerns seriously. If you are worried about yourself or someone else, support is available and confidential.
Support for BPP Students
If you are worried, unsure, or need to talk:
Contact BPP’s Safeguarding Team – safeguarding@bpp.com
Speak with a trusted tutor or professional
Access specialist national organisations for FGM support
You will be listened to and taken seriously, and support is available regardless of whether you choose to make a formal report.
Please be aware that in rare situations where we have serious concerns about someone’s immediate safety, we may need to share information with the appropriate authorities even without your consent. If this happens, we will continue to work alongside you and make sure you are kept informed and supported throughout.
☎ Safeguarding Phone: 07464 542636
🕘 Available: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm
✉ Email: safeguarding@bpp.com
Confidential Advice and Support
You can also access confidential advice and support from:
Reporting Concerns
If you suspect that someone is at risk of FGM, you can report your concern to:
Emergency Support
In an emergency: call 999.
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Call 999 immediately if someone is at immediate risk of harm.