New FGM clinic is taking referrals

November 26, 2019

A new female genital mutilation (FGM) clinic, run by our Trust, has opened its doors to survivors of the horrific act from across the Midlands.

Summerfield Women’s Clinic, based at Summerfield Primary Care Centre, in Heath Street, Winson Green, is being led by FGM specialist Midwife Alison Byrne and will be taking referrals.

The “one-stop” support clinic, has been welcomed by FGM survivor Sarata Jabbi.

She said: “I think this is a much-needed clinic and will give so many victims a safe and confidential way to seek help. There are many women from the Gambia, Somali, Eritrea and other African countries that have suffered and desperately need treatment as a result of FGM.

“It is a very good initiative and it shows that the NHS has recognised the importance of helping survivors and that the voices of the victims are being heard.

“Summerfield Primary Care Centre is a well-known venue and is easily accessible for many women from the communities where FGM is practised so I believe it will be a well-used clinic.”

Alison said: “It is in the heart of the community and will help many women who sometimes are unsure about how to access care or treatment after undergoing this procedure.

“Figures recording the number of women who have had FGM are high. But there are many more out there who haven’t come forward or do not realise that they are a victim of FGM, as it is the norm within their culture.

“We want to really push out the message that this clinic is there for them to access and can be done so discreetly and in the strictest of confidence.”

To refer a patient to the clinic, email Alison at swbh.summerfieldfgm@nhs.net.