Northumbria Police investigate historic sex abuse claims at Sunderland Foundation of Light

Northumbria Police has released its most recent figures in relation to non-recent recent sexual abuse in the sporting community.

The force’s Operation Tide was set up to support and investigate increased reporting of abuse following reports across the country and in the media.

Since launching the operation in December last year, 25 victims have come forward in relation to eight suspects across nine different sporting clubs including Newcastle United and Sunderland’s Foundation of Light. This also includes some smaller local sporting clubs.

The force’s Operation Tide was set up to support and investigate increased reporting of abuse following reports across the country and in the media.

Since launching the operation in December last year, 25 victims have come forward in relation to eight suspects across nine different sporting clubs including Newcastle United and Sunderland’s Foundation of Light. This also includes some smaller local sporting clubs.

When we initially launched the investigation it was focussed on allegations made in connection with Newcastle United Football Club but with more victims now bravely coming forward, we have broadened the investigation.

“Our specially trained officers have been in contact with a number of people who have taken the hugely brave step of speaking to us.

“My plea to those affected is please don’t suffer in silence, we would like you to come forward, our officers are trained and able to investigate and we work closely with other support organisations to ensure we provide the best possible service to you.

“We also urge anyone who may have any information regarding child sexual abuse to come forward.”

– ASSISTANT CHIEF CONSTABLE DARREN BEST

 

Following the statement from Northumbria Police, the Foundation of Light issued the following statement:

We are currently helping Northumbria Police with their enquiries about a case of non-recent sexual abuse relating to a former employee.

“Foundation of Light is an organisation that is dedicated to improving people’s lives and over the years we have supported many who have suffered abuse, as well as forging positive working relationships with Northumbria Police.

“We are extremely saddened to hear of the allegations and will do everything in our power to support this investigation.

“Our concern is primarily with those who have suffered abuse and we would encourage any others who have suffered abuse in the past to contact the NSPCC on 0800 023 2642.

“To prevent abuse all Foundation of Light staff undergo rigorous safeguarding training; Foundation of Light employs a safeguarding officer as is suitable for an organisation of its size and type and DBS checks are undertaken on all appropriate staff.

“We also adhere to strict safeguarding procedures to protect the thousands we work with every day and take allegations of abuse very seriously.

“As this is an ongoing police investigation it would not be appropriate for us to comment in more detail at this stage.”

– FOUNDATION OF LIGHT

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