Crusading ex-cop launches charity for abuse victims
GMP WHISTLEBLOWER SETS UP CENTRE IN WAKE OF SHOCK REPORT
THE former detective who blew the whistle on historic failures within Greater Manchester Police is seeking fundraisers and support for her new charity designed to help survivors of child abuse.
Maggie Oliver, whose concerns about a dropped police investigation in 2004 prompted the mayoral review into onstreet grooming earlier this month, is launching a new Rochdale-based haven for victims of such crimes.
The Maggie Oliver Foundation will eventually provide education, legal advice and therapy for people who have been affected by child abuse at a centre that will be open to people of all ages and backgrounds, primarily focused on women.
Around £20,000 has already been raised, but more cash will be needed if the plan is to be realised.
Initially it will start as a pilot, with the former detective working one day a week at the centre, but over time it is intended to evolve into a fully-fledged hub.
There will be Monday coffee mornings, lunch groups and mum and toddler groups, while there could also be a creche.
The pilot is planned as a way to find out what support survivors of abuse would find most useful.
The centre will then look at expanding its staff and employing a permanent centre manager and a fundraiser, as well as providing educational presentations and developing a full referral programme for people who need support to try and ensure they get help from the relevant service, such as the NHS.
Within two years, the charity may then look to expand into a second centre, looking at areas already known to have had major issues with child sexual exploitation.
The foundation is aimed not only at people who have been victims of onstreet grooming, but also at any kind of child sexual abuse, including FGM and forced marriage.