Survivors of child sexual exploitation came together at a parish church hall in Chadderton last night for a powerful event led by campaigner Fiona Goddard. The gathering was designed to raise awareness and provide a safe space for survivors to share their experiences with the local community in Oldham.

Held at Chadderton Parish Church Hall, a familiar venue for community activities, the event drew survivors, activists, and residents from across the borough. Speakers emphasised that child sexual exploitation is not a relic of the past but a current issue that continues to affect individuals and communities, including in Oldham. The discussion highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance, support for victims, and accountability for perpetrators.

Fiona Goddard, widely recognised for her media work and involvement in national conversations about grooming and exploitation, spoke about the importance of listening to survivors. She told the audience that open dialogue can help both survivors and the wider community understand the deep-seated impacts of abuse. Reflecting on her participation in the national inquiry into child sexual exploitation, Goddard expressed concerns about how her contributions were handled. She said this experience led her to step back from official processes and instead focus on local forums where survivors can speak freely and without fear of repercussion. Her commitment to local engagement underscores the value of community-led initiatives.

The evening was marked by emotional testimonies from survivors. Jamieleigh Jones bravely shared her personal story, outlining her journey from victim to advocate. Her words resonated with many in the room, offering inspiration and hope. Another survivor, Nadheem, described being taken abroad as a child and subjected to abuse. His account moved the audience deeply, culminating in a standing ovation as a sign of respect and solidarity. These personal accounts brought reality to the discussions, highlighting the resilience of survivors.

Fiona Goddard also highlighted her ongoing campaigning work alongside Raja Miah, stressing the need for accountability where evidence supports it. The event additionally heard from Brian Hobin, though his views were met with resistance from some attendees. This moment underscored the strong emotions and differing opinions that surround the issue of child sexual exploitation, reflecting the complex nature of addressing such abuse in communities.

Attendees described the event as both emotional and impactful. Many stressed the importance of having safe spaces where survivors can share their stories without judgment. One participant noted that events like this help break the silence around abuse and encourage others to come forward. Fiona Goddard expressed her belief that such gatherings are crucial for the healing process, not just for survivors but for the wider community in Oldham.

The meeting concluded with a sense of determination among participants to continue raising awareness and advocating for change. The voices of survivors were honoured, and the call for ongoing action to protect children and support victims was reinforced. For Oldham, this event represents a step forward in addressing a painful issue that has touched many lives across the borough.

This event is part of a broader effort to tackle child sexual exploitation in the region. With ongoing campaigns and local forums, the community continues to work towards protecting vulnerable individuals and supporting survivors. The strength of feeling demonstrated at the gathering underscores the importance of these initiatives in Oldham and beyond. As awareness grows, there is hope that more survivors will feel empowered to share their experiences and seek justice.

In Chadderton, where the event took place, residents have shown solidarity with the cause. The church hall provided a conducive environment for open dialogue, reflecting the community's commitment to addressing sensitive issues. The success of the evening has sparked discussions about future events, with organisers considering regular meetings to maintain momentum.