The findings of the report into the failings in Rotherham are shocking but nationally police have made real changes to stop child sexual exploitation

National Policing Lead for Child Abuse Investigation, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said:

“Protecting vulnerable people from abuse and exploitation is a priority for the police service.

“Awareness and understanding of child sexual exploitation has increased a significantly in the last few years. Chief constables across the country are investing significantly more time and resource in investigating allegations of child sexual exploitation and are dealing with an unprecedented increase in reports.

“In 2013 ACPO developed a national plan for tackling child sexual exploitation. This plan incorporates best practice, lessons learned from previous reviews and input from experts in the field.

“In a relatively short space of time, police forces have moved from child sexual exploitation being barely recognised and understood to making real progress in ensuring that their response is effective. Many of the recommendations in the action plan have already been achieved and the plan has been updated with further recommendations for improvement. All chief constables have committed to delivering this action plan.

“The findings of the report into the failings in Rotherham are shocking. Nothing can excuse the events it describes. We have made real changes in policing to stop this kind of abuse happening and to protect young people. Let me assure victims that if they report abuse to the police we will listen to them. We will take their allegations seriously. We will treat them sensitively.”

For more information please contact

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk