Written question WQ83934

Female genital mutilation specialist midwifery services are provided by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, following an identification of local needs assessment and this service also provides a referral route for neighbouring health boards.

Funding for specialist services is based on a local assessment of health needs by the health board for the population it serves.

All health boards use the all-Wales maternity handheld record to identify female genital mutilation and assess the impact for the forthcoming pregnancy and birth.

All health boards also use the all-Wales female genital mutilation pathway to assess clinical needs and determine planning for pregnancy and birth in partnership with the pregnant women.

In line with the Violence Against Women Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) national training framework statutory guidance, NHS Wales organisations have has a responsibility to train staff to an appropriate level to be able to identify, respond to, and signpost victims of all forms of VAWDASV, including honour-based abuse and female genital mutilation. Midwives and health visitors are priority professions for Ask and Act training.

Anyone at risk of female genital mutilation, can call the NSPCC FGM helpline for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0800 028 3550. fgmhelp@nspcc.org.uk or they can contact BAWSO, a specialist VAWDASV organisation, which provides advice, services and support to black minority ethnic communities and women in Wales who are affected by abuse, violence and exploitation including female genital mutilation. BAWSO is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0800 731 8147 info@bawso.org.uk