PCC supports report on police child sexual exploitation responses
While the report did not specifically reference West Mercia Police, it broadly indicated that while progress had been made, improvements are needed in police attitudes towards such investigations and how victims and survivors are treated afterwards. PCC John Campion, in conjunction with West Mercia Police, has prioritised providing essential tools and resources to tackle CSE. This included holding regular assurance and accountability meetings with the chief constable to ensure continual improvements are being made, with notable progress seen in the Telford inquiry and in the implementation of the various recommendations to tackle CSE.
PCC Campion’s efforts to prevent child and youth exploitation extend beyond just working with the police, having invested in various projects in efforts to assist in combating CSE. This includes projects playing a major role in tackling CSE, such as The Children Society’s CLIMB project and other services that offer tailored support to vulnerable children and young people, whilst also focusing on educational and prevention measures. PCC Campion said: “I welcome this report by the HMICFRS to address a national problem that doesn’t get the attention it needs.
“Children and young people are some of the most vulnerable in society. “Therefore, action needs to be taken to ensure any form of CSE is prevented from ever happening and that the correct safeguarding measures are in place to protect them. He added: “In West Mercia, I have been working with the force to ensure tackling CSE is and remains a top priority.
“I will continue to support, seek assurance and hold the force to account by challenging and supporting the implementation of the recommendations made in this latest report.”
References
- ^ Regatta clothes stolen from David’s Garden Centre by Cherry Lane (www.worcesternews.co.uk)