Awareness of ‘taboo’ crime raised in Rotherham

CHILD protection officials held a week of events to raise awareness of female genital mutilation in the borough.

Rotherham Safeguarding Children’s Board worked with professionals who might encounter victims to help them spot the signs.

Police believe the crime is vastly under-reported in the UK. Det Sgt Suzanne Bluck said: “This is a despicable form of violence against women and girls, and a violation of their human rights.

“Raising awareness of a crime that is still largely regarded as taboo is absolutely crucial if we are to prevent this abhorrent practice being carried out against young girls and women in Rotherham.”

Regulated professionals are now lawfully bound to report known cases of FGM in girls under 18 to police.

Board chairman Christine Cassell said: “It is really important that we work with community organisations to understand how best to encourage and support the way those communities think about FGM and the harm it causes.”

Report concerns to police on 101.