Coventry University FGM app creators hail education

The app has been developed by experts at Coventry University

Education and prevention is the key to combating female genital mutilation (FGM) long-term, according to experts who have created a mobile phone app.

The app has been developed by Coventry University which said FGM was a problem which had to be tackled head on.

It will features stories from those who have been affected and details of where those at risk can find get help.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) has also endorsed the app.

'Under threat'

Professor Hazel Barrett, from the university, said: "Education and prevention are the best long-term ways of combating the practice so we're pleased to have developed this new app, which we believe has the potential to help girls and women within the region and across the country who are under the threat of, or living with the consequences of FGM."

The practice has been illegal in Britain since 1985.

The NSPCC's head of helplines, John Cameron, described FGM as "a barbaric practice" and said it was important for young girls to have access to information and know where to seek help.