New Scotland FGM Bill welcome but disappointed no mandatory reporting says RCM

on 30 May 2019 FGM - Female Genital Mutilation

Today the Scottish Government has announced that women and girls considered at risk from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) will receive enhanced protection under proposals in a new Bill.

Commenting, Emma Currer, National Officer for Scotland at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) says; “This is a welcome move by the Scottish Government. This will support our aim of ending FGM in Scotland.

"The proposed statutory guidance is also welcome. This will enable all professionals and agencies to better support those affected by FGM. It will also foster a more consistent approach across Scotland in line with the legislation.

"We are disappointed that the Bill does not include mandatory reporting of FGM to the police as is the case now in England. FGM is illegal and it is a crime perpetrated against women and girls. We need to see those responsible for doing it held to account before the law.”

“We are making progress but there is still much to do though to stop this violence against women and girls and we cannot relax our efforts. Many girls and women here in Scotland and across the UK continue to be at risk."

To contact the RCM Media Office call 020 7312 3456, or email [email protected]. 

 

Note to editors

 

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.

 

ENDS