The duty only applies in cases where the victim, a child discloses. If someone else, such as a parent or guardian, discloses that a girl under 18 has had FGM, a report to the police is not mandatory. However, in these circumstances disclosures should still be handled in line with wider safeguarding responsibilities and a referral made to children’s social care. ‘Complying with the duty does not breach any confi dentiality requirement which might otherwise apply. ‘Professionals should make the report immediately after the case has been discovered. Best practice is within one working day, but in exceptional cases there is a maximum timeframe of one month from when the discovery is made. ‘If professionals fail to comply with the duty, this will be dealt with in accordance with existing performance procedures in place for each profession.