by Our News Desk

A TINY fraction of the more than 1,400 people sexually exploited in Rotherham as children have come forward for help, a lawyer representing survivors said yesterday.

David Greenwood represents 58 women and girls who were subjected to sexual abuse by gangs of men in the South Yorkshire town between 1996 and 2012.

But he said that fewer than 100 victims had engaged with ongoing inquiries into the tragedy and that many survivors would only trust the system again once an agency separate from Rotherham Council and South Yorkshire Police was brought in.

“Both agencies have improved in Rotherham in the last 12 months but survivors of exploitation will be unwilling to come forward to them unless radical changes are made,” said Mr Greenwood.

“An agency independent from South Yorkshire Police and RMBC (the council) is essential for the 1,400 young women who need help.

“I am aware of only around 50 to 60 girls having come forward. This means there are around 1,350 whose lives could be improved with specialist help.”

His comments precede the anniversary of the Jay Report’s publication, which found that more than 1,400 children had been raped, trafficked, groomed and violently attacked over the 16-year period.

“Only when large numbers of girls affected feel able to speak to the police, and with confidence that they will be believed, protected and supported, will we know more,” said Mr Greenwood.

“I have spoken with many girls who simply want nothing to do with the police at present and until the police put in place really good tailor-made support from specialist and dedicated officers they will not engage.”