Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced a sweeping national inquiry into grooming gangs across the UK following a government audit that revealed widespread child exploitation in both urban and rural communities. The probe, announced on June 14, 2025, is intended to assess the scale of abuse, systemic failings, and strategies for prevention and justice.

Why Has the Inquiry Been Launched?

The government-commissioned audit, concluded in early 2025, uncovered alarming patterns of child exploitation perpetrated by organised grooming gangs, many of which operated undetected for years. The findings reignited public calls for accountability, especially in the wake of earlier high-profile cases in Rotherham, Rochdale, and Oxford.

No child should live in fear of exploitation,” said Starmer during the announcement. “This inquiry will shine a light on these crimes and deliver justice.”

Inquiry Objectives

The national inquiry will:

• Map the Scope of grooming gang activity throughout the UK

• Investigate Failures of law enforcement and social services

• Recommend Solutions to better protect children and prosecute offenders

• Engage Communities to rebuild trust and develop grassroots support networks

An independent panel reporting to Parliament will oversee the inquiry, with initial findings expected by late 2026.

Where Are the Grooming Gangs Operating?

The audit highlighted several UK hotspots, including:

• Manchester

• Birmingham

• Rotherham

• Smaller towns in Yorkshire, the Midlands, and parts of Wales

However, authorities stress that grooming gangs are not confined to these areas alone.

Who Will Be Involved?

The inquiry will involve:

• Police forces sharing case data and operational failures

• Social workers and councils addressing child protection gaps

• Survivors and families, whose lived experiences will shape the inquiry’s direction

• Community leaders, to ensure cultural and social contexts are represented

Public and Political Reaction

The move has been welcomed by child protection advocates and survivors’ organisations, many of which have long campaigned for a deeper investigation. However, some critics warn that previous inquiries — including the 2014 Jay Report on Rotherham — resulted in limited follow-up action.

“This must not be another report that gathers dust,” said Conservative MP Sarah Champion. “We need real reform.”

Social media reaction has been mixed. While many express hope for justice, others are sceptical given past failures.

Historical Context: A Persistent Crisis

Grooming gangs have plagued the UK for decades. The Home Office’s 2020 report estimated that thousands of children remain at risk each year. Investigations in Rotherham, Rochdale, Telford, Newcastle, and Oxford have revealed disturbing patterns of systemic neglect and failure to act.

The new inquiry aims to build on these earlier efforts, revisiting unresolved concerns and producing actionable recommendations.

Challenges the Inquiry Faces

• Incomplete Data: Many local councils lack detailed records

• Public Distrust: Past mishandling has led to community scepticism

• Budget Constraints: Inquiry scope may be limited without additional funding

• Complex Networks: Gangs often operate across jurisdictions, complicating enforcement

What’s Next?

The inquiry begins with public consultations in July 2025, involving victims, families, experts, and advocacy groups. Updates will be published regularly on GOV.UK and shared through trusted media.

The government has pledged £10 million for community outreach and survivor support throughout the process.

? How You Can Stay Informed and Involved

• Visit GOV.UK for official updates

• Read local and national coverage from The Sentinel Current

• Join community forums or speak at local inquiry meetings

• Report concerns to safeguarding services in your area