24 June 2026
This Protocol explains the role of a Core Participant and how to apply to become one in the Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gangs.
Applications for Core Participant status are considered by the Chair in accordance with the Inquiry Rules 2006 and the Inquiry’s Terms of Reference.
There are a number of ways to engage with the Inquiry without becoming a Core Participant. Information about the National Listening Project and other opportunities to contribute can be found in the Victims and Survivors Hub.
Applications for Core Participant status are now open
Applications for Core Participant status in relation to the Inquiry’s National Accountability Hearings are open from 13 July 2026 and will close at 5pm on 14 August 2026.
The Inquiry has updated its Protocol on Core Participants to provide further clarity on applications from victim and survivor organisations, representative groups, and individual victims and survivors.
The changes to paragraphs 9 and 17 of the Protocol make clear that, while the Inquiry will generally be assisted by applications from victim and survivor organisations or representative groups, applications from individual victims and survivors will also be considered on their own merits.
The deadline for applications from victim and survivor organisations, representative groups, and individual victims and survivors has been extended by two weeks and will now close at 5pm on 28 August 2026.
A Core Participant is an individual or organisation with a significant interest in the Inquiry’s work. Core Participants have specific rights within the Inquiry process, including receiving relevant disclosure and making opening or closing statements at hearings.
For the National Accountability Hearings, Core Participant status is more likely to be granted to qualifying victim groups or organisations rather than individuals. However, Core Participant status is not required to share experiences with the Inquiry or contribute to its work.
Applications should be sent to Solicitor@grooming-gangs.independent-inquiry.uk and should not exceed five pages of typed text.
This application period relates to the National Accountability Hearings only. Separate application periods for the Local Area Investigations into Oldham, Bradford and Keighley, and London will be announced separately.
Please note that this Protocol has been revised as of 7th August 2026.