Family Solicitors

Sandwell Council in the West Midlands has hosted an event to stop Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

The health event was arranged by the Sandwell Stopping FGM Forum, in association with all its partners – and was led by seven of the trained community FGM Champions who were trained through Rights and Equality Sandwell.

Around 150 members of the public attended the health and wellbeing event in Smethwick, where FGM Champions were supported by Al’Nissa Group, Rights and Equality Sandwell, Ileys Community Association, Irise, Sandwell Council and Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

The council said that the day comprised a range of activities for all ages and the event was marked with of a banner promoting “A stop to FGM”.

The penalty for performing FGM in Britain, or arranging for someone to have it carried out abroad, is a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison.

Domestic abuse lead for Sandwell and West Birmingham CCG, Marie Kelly, said:

“This was a really positive event that promoted general health and wellbeing, as well as raising awareness about FGM to members of the community in a safe and friendly environment.

“I would like to thank all the organisations and people who took part.

“We are all working together to put a stop to FGM – and this has included stepping up training about FGM to help frontline staff identify and report this 'hidden crime'.”

Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for public health and protection, Councillor Elaine Costigan, added:

“FGM is horrific and we are working with our community and partner organisations locally and regionally to put a stop to these despicable crimes.

“FGM is child abuse and should be treated as such – I urge anyone who has concerns about a child to contact the police.”

Sandwell Stopping FGM Forum is part of Sandwell's Domestic Abuse Strategic Partnership and includes a wide range of organisations.

Members of the public with concerns about a child or information about FGM can call the police or use the 101 non-emergency number – in an emergency where a girl is at immediate risk, call 999.

Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors can advise victims of domestic abuse on how to tackle the issues within the law, including advising on controlling or coercive behaviour, domestic abuse between partners or spouses or same sex partners, child-parent domestic abuse, elder abuse, domestic abuse between friends or flatmates, and financial abuse.

Duncan Lewis is also able to advise on FGM, forced marriage, honour crimes and dowry disputes – and advises on family law under the laws of England and Wales and Islamic law.

For expert legal advice on tackling domestic abuse, call Duncan Lewis domestic violence solicitors in confidence on 0333 772 0409.

For urgent legal help with a domestic violence matter, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607, where a family lawyer is available 24/7.