Bristol stands together against the crime of Female Genital Mutilation. Every community, every religion, every school are united, with all local leaders firmly behind them. As a city we should be proud of the leadership shown by our anti-FGM charities over many years, including through collaboration with Bristol’s Somali communities and activists.

We should take this opportunity to restate our commitment and redouble our efforts to eradicate this criminal practice.

Education and awareness are crucial to protecting women and girls here in Bristol and across the country. Our city institutions – including Avon & Somerset Police and the NHS – need to continue to improve on their joined-up approach, listening to communities.

Local councillors are playing an important role in their communities around this work, and so much more, as part of my administration. Helen Godwin, my cabinet lead for children, and Ruth Pickersgill, one of Easton’s local councillors, are attending this week’s anti-FGM event as part of ongoing efforts to continue a multi-agency approach: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bridging-the-gap-international-zero-tolerance-for-fgm-conference-tickets-42495174210

More information about FGM is available on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/female-genital-mutilation-fgm/#getting-help-and-support

If you are concerned about someone who may be at risk of FGM, contact the NSPCC’s free helpline on 0800 028 3550.