Barrow MP Demands Grooming Gangs Inquiry Includes Town as Survivors Seek Full Truth
Barrow and Furness MP Michelle Scrogham has urged the Government to ensure Barrow is included in the national grooming gangs inquiry. Her intervention comes after the first locations selected for investigation were announced. She said survivors in Barrow must not be overlooked.
The inquiry has confirmed London, Oldham, Bradford and Keighley will be examined during its opening phase. It will investigate how public bodies, including councils, police and health services, responded to organised child sexual exploitation. Scrogham argued that Barrow has also experienced serious cases and deserves the same level of scrutiny. She said victims and survivors should receive the truth, accountability and justice they have long awaited.
The Labour MP said excluding Barrow would risk leaving important questions unanswered for local families and communities. She stressed that every area affected by organised child sexual exploitation should have confidence that evidence will be properly examined. Her comments follow previous calls from local representatives for Barrow's experiences to be recognised within the wider national investigation. The inquiry is expected to expand into additional locations as its work progresses.
The statutory inquiry is chaired by Baroness Anne Longfield and has powers to compel witnesses and organisations to provide evidence. It aims to examine institutional failures, identify lessons from past cases and assess whether previous recommendations have been properly implemented. Investigators will also consider the role played by public authorities in protecting vulnerable children. Ministers have said further locations may be added during later phases of the inquiry.
Scrogham said survivors have waited far too long for answers and should not be left behind. She maintained that Barrow's history means it should be considered alongside other communities under investigation. The MP pledged to continue pressing for the town's inclusion.
The national inquiry was established following recommendations made after an independent review into group based child sexual exploitation. It is expected to investigate systemic failings across England and Wales while hearing evidence from victims, professionals and public bodies. Campaigners hope the process will strengthen child protection and improve accountability for institutions. The Government has said the inquiry will continue to identify further areas where detailed local investigations are needed.
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