Child Protection and Exploitation

Rationale:

The PCC was looking to:

• Seek assurance that the Force is proactive in protecting and safeguarding children. Also that it is proactive in preventing chlldren being exposed to exploitation and harm; and
• Provide reassurance to the public that the Force is making the necessary improvements at pace.

Questions:

1. In light of HMICFRS’s child protection inspection findings, published January 2025, please can the following be provided:

• A brief overview of the immediate and ongoing actions taken by the Force to respond to HMICFRS’s causes of concern and subsequent recommendations; and
• with the work that is being undertaken, details of the expected impact and outcomes and when improvements will start to be seen in this area, including those expected from Op Unified?

2. In light of the recommendations and the area of improvement referenced in the HMICFRS’s 2023 report ‘An inspection of the effectiveness of the police and law enforcement bodies’ response to group-based child sexual exploitation in England and Wales’, please could the Force provide an update in relation to progress made?
3. In terms of Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) and the increase in offenders aged 10 to 17, how can the Force and the OPCC work together to reduce child on child abuse and minimise the escalation of concerning sexual behaviours?

Further Information:

The PCC will continue to monitor performance in this area.

A summary of the evidence considered at this meeting can be accessed below:

Scrutiny Meeting. Child Protection and Exploitation. 1 April 2025 (application, 175kB)