Source · Select Committees · Women and Equalities Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Accepted
Government lacks up-to-date, localised data on FGM prevalence, hindering effective service delivery.
Conclusion
To tackle FGM and be able to provide services based on need, the Government, local authorities and healthcare providers need to understand the prevalence of FGM within the UK. The most recent study on FGM prevalence in England and Wales was published in 2015 and was based on 2011 census data. It is a significant oversight that the Government lacks up-to-date information on the current prevalence of FGM nationwide and per locality. This gap undermines the Government’s, local authorities and healthcare providers’ ability to provide services to women in need. (Conclusion, Paragraph 49)
Government Response Summary
The government is conducting a study to test the viability of producing a national FGM prevalence estimate, with work already underway. NHS England also operates an FGM Enhanced Dataset which is being amended to improve data quality and completeness to support national and local policy and service planning.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Improving the Government’s understanding of the numbers of people affected by FGM is vital to help us to better ensure there is adequate support available. In August 2025, the Home Office announced six measures to tackle ‘honour’-based abuse (HBA). This included conducting a study to test the viability of producing a national prevalence estimate for forced marriage and FGM. We are working with Verian to complete this and work is already underway. DHSC commissions NHS England to deliver the FGM Enhanced Dataset which collates data collected by healthcare providers in England where FGM was identified or a procedure for FGM was undertaken. The anonymised data shows the extent of FGM identified by the NHS across England and has informed the establishment of National FGM Support Clinics in locations with the highest need. The dataset includes information on the country of birth and the country where FGM was undertaken. Data are published quarterly, and a report is published annually. Following a review of the dataset, including a public consultation and focus groups with women affected by FGM, work is now underway to make amendments to the dataset to improve data quality and completeness. These changes will support national and local policy and service planning.