Scope of local area investigations
Local investigations will examine the nature of child sexual exploitation, institutional and individual responses, preventability, treatment of victims, and required changes. The focus extends beyond individual cases to systemic issues.
The local investigations will include public hearings, and evidence gathered will play an important role in shaping the Inquiry’s national findings and recommendations.
Heightened scrutiny and statutory powers
The Inquiry has powers to compel witnesses to provide written and oral evidence and the production of documentation. Organisations which fall within the local investigative areas, should prepare for document disclosure, internal reviews and witness engagement. However, even those organisations not in the local investigation scope but who may hold relevant information are required to preserve it, and consideration should be given now to how you may need to engage with the Inquiry’s investigation.
Focus on accountability
The Inquiry will assess why recommendations (over 800 identified) from previous reviews have not been consistently implemented, creating potential legal and reputational risks for you. The much anticipated Hillsborough law lies in waiting to ensure this Inquiry has teeth to compel candour, openness and transparency.
Implications for communities
The investigations will provide a mechanism for victims to be heard but may also lead to increased media scrutiny and public sensitivity within affected areas.
Practical considerations
Organisations should review historic cases, ensure document preservation and readiness, identify key personnel, and prepare communication strategies.
We would always strongly recommend front loading of preparations so that you can work to your own timescales, rather than having to work to timescales which the Inquiry may place upon you. Documents should ideally be categorised and a chronology prepared to assist those who may need to review the documents in due course. An audited process of document collation alongside a decision log will help to justify efforts made to gather all relevant documents.
Next steps
Further areas will be announced, and national accountability hearings will follow, examining central government and institutional roles. We would recommend that, if in doubt, you seek advice as to whether your organisation could be part of the local or national inquiry.
