Child safeguarding rates improved in Oldham as police and council crackdown on child exploitation

Greater Manchester Police and Oldham Council are improving safeguarding rates as part of a bid to prevent child exploitation and provide care for victims.

Since the publication of ‘The review into historic safeguarding practices in Oldham’ last year, referrals made to ensure the safety of young people in Oldham have increased by 42%.

The increase is attributable to improved partnership working to effectively identify, engage with, and support vulnerable young people and victims at the earliest possible opportunity.

It also represents rising awareness of the issue, support services, and reporting mechanisms; and building public trust and confidence in the multi-agency response to reports and crimes.

Det Supt Jude Holmes, of Greater Manchester Police's Oldham district, said: “Our Complex Safeguarding Hub co-locates police officers with local authority and health service colleagues to reduce the risk to vulnerable people and stop them becoming victims.
“There is a common misconception that the increase in referrals is indicative of a growing problem, but it’s actually a reassuring sign that the partnership is identifying those at risk of harm and taking steps to mitigate that risk whilst ensuring care plans are in place.
“Whilst much of our work focusses on vulnerable people and victims, we also take a real suspect-focussed approach to investigations into any crimes to ensure the best possible chance of prosecutions, convictions, and justice for brave victims and survivors of abuse.”