FGM Learning – a valuable resource related to female genital mutilation
The Australian College of Nursing (ACN), in conjunction with the Australian College of Midwives (ACM), have today officially launched FGM Learning, a website for nurses, midwives and other health professionals who work with women and girls affected by, or at risk of, female genital mutilation (FGM).
Adjunct Professor Debra Thoms, ACN CEO, said that FGM Learning provides health professionals with a national site to access continuing professional development and learning resources related to FGM. It also provides opportunity for health professionals to network with each other to share resources and professional supports.
“The expansive reach of nurses and midwives within communities means that they are often the first health professional to identify women and girls affected by, or at risk of FGM. They have a responsibility to ensure that these women and girls receive culturally sensitive care and appropriate referral,” said Professor Thoms.
Ms Ann Kinnear, ACM Executive Officer, explained that through the website health professionals, and other interested groups, will be able to see what resources exist and are under development, as well as identifying areas of need and opportunities for collaboration.
“Before today, the dissemination of information and professional development resources related to female genital mutilation has been absent. FGM Learning mitigates this issue by offering a national platform for all health professionals to easily access,” said Ms Kinnear. Nurses and midwives now have a reliable knowledge source to inform the care they provide to FGM affected women and girls; as well as contribute to the improved health outcomes of these women, their families and communities.
FGM Learning has been funded and supported by the Australian Government and is accessible at http://www.fgmlearning.org.au/
