Update on the Grooming Gang Inquiry

Following the recommendation of IISCA, the Government last year announced the Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs.

The announcement has not been without difficulties with survivors resigning from the panel and candidates withdrawing from consideration for Chair. Jess Philips MP also received calls to resign following criticism of her handling of survivors’ concerns.

The Government have responded in part to the concerns raised by survivors. On the 9th December 2025, Baroness Anne Longfield was announced as Chair and draft terms of reference were published.

The Inquiry will operate for 3 years with a budget of £65m. Its focus will be on both historic and current failures of state institutions, such as the police, and protecting children from group based child sexual exploitation in England and Wales.

Parrell to the Inquiry, the National Crime Agency has launched Operation Beaconport, to review previously closed cases. Already, 1200 cases have been flagged for potential re-investigation.

The final terms of reference is expected to be agreed in March 2026, which is when the Inquiry is expected to be formally established.

There has been mixed reaction from survivors, a judge or legally qualified Chair would have been preferable and there are concerns as to how independent the Inquiry will be.

However, progress is being made. What is important is that the Inquiry will make recommendations that will be implemented and acted upon.