Statement from the Council
Following a resolution from this week’s Full Council meeting where all parties debated and agreed a motion on the issue of child sexual exploitation, this statement is on behalf of Coventry City Council to reaffirm the Council’s absolute commitment to supporting survivors of child sexual exploitation and abuse, and our determination to ensure justice for all those affected by these horrific crimes.
Child sexual exploitation represents one of the most serious crimes our society faces. The profound trauma inflicted on victims reverberates throughout their lives, and we recognise the immense courage it takes for survivors to come forward.
Coventry City Council stands firmly with every survivor. We believe you, we support you, and we are committed to protecting you. Our safeguarding services remain dedicated to providing comprehensive support, and we will continue working with our partners to ensure survivors receive the care, protection and justice they deserve.
The Council fully supports the Government's commitment to establishing a new national inquiry on grooming gangs. This inquiry represents a crucial opportunity to uncover the truth, hold institutions accountable for historic failings, and ensure such failures never happen again.
We welcome the coordinated approach that will bring together targeted local investigations under national oversight. Truth and justice cannot be achieved through fragmented efforts – they require the systematic, thorough approach this inquiry will provide.
There must be no barriers to justice. We call for the full prosecution of all those identified through these inquiries, regardless of their background, position, or connections. Political hesitation, misplaced cultural sensitivity, or institutional self-protection have no place in the pursuit of justice for survivors.
Every perpetrator must face the full force of the law. Every institution that failed in its duty of care must be held accountable. This is what survivors deserve, and this is what justice demands.
We specifically encourage anyone with evidence relating to historic or current child sexual exploitation to come forward. Coventry City Council commits to:
- Believing and supporting anyone who reports abuse or exploitation
- Working closely with police and other agencies to ensure reports are thoroughly investigated
- Providing appropriate support services to help survivors through the reporting process
- Protecting the safety and wellbeing of those who come forward
- Ensuring confidentiality and sensitivity in all our responses
We will continue strengthening our partnerships with statutory safeguarding partners to ensure mandatory information sharing is enforced in all cases of child sexual abuse and exploitation. Information sharing saves lives and prevents further harm – we will not allow procedural barriers to compromise child safety.
These crimes seek to divide communities and exploit vulnerabilities. Our response must be unity in the face of evil, support for survivors, and an unwavering commitment to justice. We will not allow the legitimate pursuit of justice to be used to fuel division between communities in Coventry.
Child protection is everyone's responsibility. We call on all residents, organisations, and partners to remain vigilant and to report concerns. Together, we can create a Coventry where children are safe, survivors are supported, and justice prevails.
If you are a survivor of child sexual exploitation, or if you have information that could assist investigations, please contact:
- West Midlands Police: 101 or 999 in emergencies
- NSPCC helpline: 0808 800 5000
- Childline: 0800 1111
We will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of truth and justice. This is our promise to survivors, and our commitment to our community.
Cllr George Duggins
Leader, Coventry City Council