Child sexual exploitation
We are supporting the national inquiry into group-based child sexual exploitation (CSE).
On 30 September 2026, the National Inquiry into Grooming Gangs announced it will be conducting an investigation into Birmingham. This is part of the next phase of its work.
This statutory independent inquiry into grooming gangs was set up to address systemic failures in how institutions have responded to CSE and abuse committed by grooming gangs.
Birmingham is committed to fully cooperating with the work of the inquiry, alongside ongoing work to strengthen our safeguarding system.
Get help and support
If you are concerned about a child
Contact the Children’s Advice and Support Service (CASS) by phoning 0121 303 1888.
If the child is in immediate danger, phone 999.
If you are a historical survivor seeking support
You can contact RSVP (Rape and Sexual Violence Project) by phoning 0121 643 0301 or 0121 643 4136.
You can also contact ANAWIM - Birmingham's Centre for Women by phoning 0121 440 5296.
Statement from the leader
The leader of Birmingham City Council, Cllr Roger Harmer, has issued a statement on the support the council is giving to the inquiry.
Key documents
We have republished a report from 1995 to make sure that it is publicly available.
The report to the Social Services Committee from December 1995 contains the appendix “Young Women in Care”. This is a report by Jill Jesson for the Social Services Department’s Youth Protection Section from October 1991.
The report is available as:
View the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs
Read the update on the investigation into group-based child sexual abuse – National Crime Agency
Scrutiny papers
Read the Scrutiny pre-decision report – 30 September 2026
Read appendix 1 – child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs presentation
Read appendix 2 – a report from Overview and Scrutiny – December 2014
Other historical reports
Social Services Committee minutes 13 Dec 1995 - scanned version (This version is not accessible, however you can view the accessible trasciption of key extracts below.)
Social Services Committee minutes 13 December 1995 - Accessible transcription of key extracts
Page last updated: 7 October 2026