The Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs: What we know so far

What does it mean to be a 'Core Participant'? 

As the Inquiry moves forward, some people will be invited to take part as what is known as a Core Participant. 

Being recognised as a Core Participant gives you certain rights within the process, such as being able to see relevant evidence before hearings, make opening and closing statements, suggest questions for Counsel to ask witnesses and, in limited circumstances, apply for permission for further questioning. Core Participants would also receive a copy of the Inquiry's final report, and any interim report, before it is made public. 

It’s important to note that you do not have to become a Core Participant to take part in the Inquiry, and there is no pressure to do so. You may still be able to provide evidence, give a witness statement, or attend public hearings without taking on this formal role. It is your choice whether you wish to apply for Core Participant status 

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Who can apply to be a Core Participant? 

When deciding whether to grant Core Participant status, the Chair will consider whether the person played, or may have played, a direct and significant role in the matters the Inquiry is looking at, whether they have a significant interest in an important part of those matters, or whether they are likely to face criticism during the Inquiry or in its report. 

If you are a victim or survivor, your application is likely to focus on your own experience and how the local authority and other organisations such as the police responded. Depending on your circumstances, it may be helpful to explain whether there is an ongoing police investigation linked to what happened to you, and whether any related criminal trial has concluded, although neither of these is a requirement. Where appropriate, the Inquiry may allocate an individual cipher or make other anonymity arrangements to protect your identity, unless you choose otherwise or the Inquiry directs differently. 

Meeting these criteria does not automatically mean you will be granted Core Participant status. The Chair has discretion and will look at every application carefully and fairly. Applications can only be made once a window opens for a particular set of hearings or a local investigation, so it is worth getting advice early so you are ready when that time comes. 

When can I apply to be a Core Participant? 

Applications for Core Participant status cannot be made just yet for most parts of the Inquiry. Invitations to apply are only opened once the national accountability hearings or a specific local investigation have been formally announced, and applications should not be submitted before that window opens. The exact dates will be published on the Inquiry's website nearer the time. 

How we can help 

We understand that thinking about whether to apply for Core Participant status can bring up a lot, particularly if it follows years of trying to be heard or feeling let down by other processes. If you would like legal advice, our specialist Abuse Claims team has supported survivors for more than 30 years and can explain your options at a pace that feels right for you. 

We can talk you through whether you may meet the criteria, help you put together a clear and considered application, and explain what would happen if you were accepted as a Core Participant, including how legal representation and funding work. The Inquiry will make decisions about legal representation and funding arrangements and applicants may be represented through recognised legal representatives (RLRs). 

It is also worth knowing that taking part in the Inquiry is separate from making a compensation claim. If you have experienced abuse of this kind, you may be able to bring a civil claim or apply through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.  

Recent changes to the law have also removed the limitation period for many civil child sexual abuse claims in England and Wales, although every case depends on its own circumstances.  

Our specialist solicitors can talk you through your options, including any time limits that may apply, so that you can decide what feels right for you, in your own time. 

Get in touch 

If you have experienced abuse of this nature, please know that you do not need to have all the answers before you reach out. Whether you would like support with making a claim, or simply want to understand what becoming a Core Participant in the Inquiry might involve, our team is ready to listen. 

If you have been affected by the issues raised in this article, support is also available from organisations including NAPAC.