The Government has marked International Day of the Girl by announcing £330,000 to help tackle female genital mutilation and forced marriage.
It includes £150,000 via the Department for Communities and Local Government, which will be spent on engagement activities in ‘at risk’ areas.
A further £100,00 will go to the Forced Marriage Unit to be spent on community work and £80,000 will bolster the DCLG’s community champions fund. The latter will be available to organisations to deliver a network of trusted community champions to tackle both issues.
Minister for women and equalities, Nicky Morgan, said: ‘All women, whether young or old, have the right to live their life free from violence without being forced into marriage or experiencing the lifelong physical and psychological effects of female genital mutilation.
‘These horrific practices are a violation of the rights of girls and women across the world, including here in the UK.
‘This funding will offer much needed further support and guidance to those at risk or surviving, whilst reinforcing to communities that this practice will not be tolerated.’ Bids for funding should be submitted by 10 November.
