Thousands of women who were forced into street prostitution or subject to gang rapes by grooming gangs have criminal convictions as consequence of their abuse and exploitation. Many were children at the time, but their abuse continued once they reached the age of 18. Having such criminal convictions is deeply stigmatising and socially excluding. They were victims not criminals and it is high time this historical stain on their characters is removed.

We will provide legal advice and assist women who have such historical convictions, advising them about the recent law which expunges historic convictions for soliciting and loitering for those under 18. We will assist with preparing criminal appeals, making applications to the CCRC, applying for a Pardon in circumstances where, due to lack of evidence, no appeal is possible. We will campaign and lobby, working with survivors, for changes in the law to achieve the expungement of such records.