An independent, statutory inquiry into grooming gangs announces that its first focus areas are London, Oldham, Bradford and Keighley. The inquiry, funded at around £65 million, is set up to examine how grooming gangs operated and to assess how different institutions responded to protect children from sexual abuse.
Sources say the inquiry includes three-part hearings that cover both national and local responsibilities. It will seek accounts not only from local authorities, such as councils, but also from national bodies including relevant Whitehall departments, politicians, and national police institutions. The inquiry also targets the role of services that worked with children, including the NHS and social care, and how education and safeguarding systems responded.
The outlets report that additional locations may be added after the initial phase. The process is described as compelling individuals and institutions to explain what they did or did not do in relation to child protection.
