Conference to combat child-sex scourge

HEADS of authorities responsible for protecting children across the UK were attending a national child sexual exploitation conference today in Manchester.

Hosted by Project Phoenix, Greater Manchester’s response to tackling child sexual exploitation, the event will showcase the work being done across the region to protect children from abuse. Speaking at the conference was Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd, director of Salford City Council and lead officer for Project Phoenix Jim Taylor and GMP’s Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy.

Mr Lloyd said: “This event is a chance for us to showcase the work being done across the region and teach others what we’ve learned in our combined efforts to prevent abuse, encourage victims to come forward and bring offenders to justice.

“But, while we should be proud of our successes so far, we are still on a long journey with much yet to do.

“I urge everyone to continue prioritising this issue, doing all we can to fight this terrible scourge on our society and to support victims who have been through so much.”

A selection of practical workshops was also being held to give delegates the chance to talk with experts from across Project Phoenix.