Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs
Information about the Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs announced by the Home Secretary on 9 December 2025.
The Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs has been established in response to recommendation 2 of Baroness Louise Casey’s National Audit on Group-based Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse published in June 2025.
On 9 December 2025 the Home Secretary announced to Parliament the appointment of Baroness Anne Longfield CBE as Chair of the inquiry, and panellists Zoë Billingham CBE and Eleanor Kelly CBE.
On 9 December the Home Secretary also published the draft terms of reference for the inquiry which is available from the links on this page.
The inquiry will set up its own website. Details of how to contact the inquiry will be available in the new year.
In the meantime, this collection page brings together information on the inquiry chair and panellists, the draft terms of reference, and support services available for those who may be affected by this issue.
Next steps for the inquiry
The Chair will consult on the draft terms of reference and will provide more information in January. The final terms of reference will be agreed with the Home Secretary and published by March 2026, when the inquiry will be formally established.
In the meantime, the Chair will set up a secretariat to deliver the work of the inquiry.
This will include appointing:
- a secretary and deputy secretary
- a solicitor to the inquiry
- a counsel to the inquiry
The secretariat’s work will also include putting in place safeguarding and support for victims and survivors who take part in the inquiry.
The inquiry will start creating a plan to decide which areas across England and Wales will be subject to local investigations.
If you are a victim or survivor of child sexual abuse and exploitation, or a concerned family member or friend, you can find information about what support is available.