Crime chief infocus plea overchild sex abuse

Following the resignation of Justice Lowell Goddard as Chair of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, Mr Grunshaw has joined calls on the Government to “step up” and take decisive action to keep young people safe from harm.

Backed by Mr Grunshaw, the Chair of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), Vera Baird QC, has written to the Home Secretary urging a swift response so that the work of the Inquiry is not put at risk.

Mr Grunshaw said: “We have seen increased reporting of sexual assaults committed against young people here in Lancashire and while it is encouraging that people have the knowledge and confidence to report when something feels wrong, it is starting to show the extent of what has been a ‘hidden crime’ for far too long.

“While I welcome the Home Secretary’s commitment to continue the important work of the inquiry, victims and survivors will want to see fast and decisive action to appoint a new Chair so that everyone can have full confidence in its work. Sexual abuse and exploitation of children is a matter for our society as a whole, not just the police. The Government must now step up with actions, not just words, and back public services that work to protect children.”