Grooming gangs inquiry launches dedicated Wales investigation

A dedicated investigation in Wales will examine how organisations responded to child sexual exploitation and abuse by grooming gangs, the statutory independent inquiry announced on 30 September. Its work will cover safeguarding, cooperation between agencies, devolved arrangements and cross-border working with England.

What is new?

Wales was already within the national inquiry’s remit. The new announcement establishes a specific Wales investigation whose evidence will feed into national findings and recommendations. A local investigation in Birmingham has also been announced.

The inquiry says it will examine what happened, how institutions responded, whether children were protected and whether victims and survivors were heard and supported. Announcing an investigation is not a finding against any particular person or organisation.

What has not been decided?

The inquiry is still developing the precise scope of its work in Wales, including specific areas of interest. Its Wales page promises further updates on the nature and extent of the investigation. It does not yet set out a list of Welsh locations or a timetable for Welsh hearings.

The announcement follows the first local investigations, announced in June, covering Oldham, Bradford and Keighley, and London. National evidence-gathering continues alongside the area investigations.

How people can share their experience

Victims and survivors, relatives, friends and survivor groups can contribute through the National Listening Project. People do not need to wait for an investigation in their own area. Taking part is a choice, and the inquiry says support is available.

The project currently offers written submissions and voice or video recordings. One-to-one conversations are expected to begin in October, with trained facilitators and specialist emotional support. The information shared through this project is not a formal witness statement or legal document; it will help inform the inquiry’s work.

The inquiry’s Wales investigation and National Listening Project pages explain the available routes. Its Support Services page lists help for those affected. Further announcements are needed before the Welsh places, institutions and timetable under examination can be reported in detail.