Casey report forces Starmer’s hand on issue that has haunted Labour for decades

Failings of UK institutions to protect young girls from grooming gangs will remain high on political agenda for years

Louise Casey's decision to recommend a national inquiry into grooming gangs has forced Keir Starmer's hand on an issue that has haunted the Labour party for decades.

The failings of UK institutions to protect young girls from widespread abuse by gangs of men will remain high on the political agenda for another three years.

In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453. In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800; adult survivors can seek help at Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International