Working with survivors of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting
Level 2
Private Team Training
This half-day training, designed by HERSANA, provides professionals across sectors with the tools to effectively respond to and support girls, women and femmes affected by Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C). While FGM/C is widely recognised as a harmful practice and a form of gender-based violence, many professionals still lack the confidence, legal knowledge or practical strategies to intervene safely and sensitively.
This course deepens your understanding of UK laws, statutory duties and the wider safeguarding responsibilities around FGM/C. It goes beyond basic awareness to explore what good, culturally competent, survivor-centred practice looks like — ensuring you can act with clarity, care and confidence.
Through practical guidance, real-world scenarios and reflection, this session ensures participants are equipped to uphold both legal obligations and the dignity of survivors.
What you need to know
What will I learn?
By the end of this training, participants will be able to:
- Understand the key UK laws, policies and statutory duties related to FGM/C, including the FGM Act, mandatory reporting duty and FGM Protection Orders.
- Identify the safeguarding pathways for those at risk or affected and know when and how to make appropriate referrals.
- Recognise the indicators of risk and signs of FGM/C in different professional settings (e.g. education, healthcare, social care).
- Apply trauma-informed, culturally competent approaches to supporting survivors of FGM/C, without reinforcing stigma or pathologising communities.
- Navigate complex family, cultural and community dynamics when discussing or responding to FGM/C.
- Develop clear strategies for multi-agency working, documentation and survivor engagement tailored to your professional context.
- Strengthen professional confidence in initiating conversations, handling disclosures and supporting long-term recovery.
Who should attend?
This course is designed for professionals, frontline workers, volunteers, and service providers who may come into contact with women, girls, and young people affected by or at risk of experiencing female genital mutilation/cutting, including those working in:
How do I book a training session for my team?
Our 'Off-The-Shelf' Sessions are closed sessions, delivered to your team only. If you'd like to book this training for your team, contact us at training@hersana.org.