The Independent Inquiry into Child Sex Abuse is opening its investigation into historical claims surrounding Nottinghamshire children’s homes today.
A preliminary hearing begins on Thursday (May 11) as part of the wide-ranging investigation into any ‘institutional failings’ in protecting children in the care of Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Councils.
The hearing will consider who can give evidence and how to protect them – some survivors will be at today’s preliminary hearing in London.
The investigation, also known as the Jay Inquiry is looking into historical sex abuse around the UK.
Speaking at the time the inquiry was launched, former leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, Alan Rhodes, said in a statement: “Firstly, I welcome and support the national inquiry that will investigate whether public bodies have taken seriously their duty of care to protect children from sexual abuse in England and Wales.
“Any failings of any organisation or institution deserves to be identified and dealt with appropriately.
“If there has been organisational or institutional failings, then there needs to be accountability.
“And, importantly, I am prepared to make an unreserved apology to survivors if our Council is found to have failed in our duty of care to children.”
Nottinghamshire Police launched an investigation into child abuse in care claims in 2011.
This has widened to become Operation Equinox – involving around 290 people who have alleged they were sexually or physically abused in Nottinghamshire – mostly while in the care of local councils.
Much of the early investigation was centred around the former Beechwood care home in Mapperley, but has since widened to cover many other former institutions and alleged historical incidents in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.
Today’s opening is being held at the International Dispute Resolution Centre on Fleet Street, London.
