
Bradford Child Sex Abuse Scandal: Victim's Plea for National Inquiry
Bradford Child Sexual Exploitation: A Victim's Story and Systemic Failures Fiona Goddard's harrowing account of child sexual exploitation in Bradford, UK, has brought renewed attention to the issue of grooming gangs and the shortcomings of the system designed to protect vulnerable children. Goddard alleges she was abused by over 50 men, starting at the age of eight. "They knew what was happening, and they intentionally covered it over," she stated in a recent Sky News interview. The interview highlights a pattern of Goddard going missing on an almost daily basis, a fact noted but inadequately addressed by multiple agencies. A serious case review found that despite agencies' awareness of her situation, including domestic abuse, no effective strategy was implemented to manage the risks. This lack of intervention allowed the abuse to continue for years. The video also features the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, and Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch, both discussing the need for a national inquiry. The government has ordered a rapid review by Baroness Louise Casey, whose report is expected to recommend a national inquiry, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the situation. Goddard's testimony, coupled with the political response, underscores the need for systemic change to protect vulnerable children from exploitation.