A former Bury foster carer and Educational Welfare Officer is jailed for 13 years for sex offences against children

Yesterday, Monday 13 May 2024, Stephen Newmarch (12/08/1966) of Broomfield Close in Bolton was sentenced to 13 years imprisonment after being found guilty of 15 sexual offences against two victims following re-trial at Manchester Crown Court in March 2024. The victims, now in their 30’s, gave evidence at his trial.

He will be on the Sex Offender's Register for life as well as being subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).

This case arose after victims came forward to police in 2020, stating that Newmarch had been responsible for sexually abusing them in early 2000's, whilst he was an Educational Welfare Officer and a foster carer in Bury.

The court heard how one of the men made a statement to the police regarding a holiday he had been on with Newmarch and others when he was 14 years old. Newmarch had inappropriately touched him and when reported to other adults on the trip, he passed it off as “play fighting”.

Both of the victims reported being foster children in the care of Newmarch when sexual abuse occurred.

Detective Sergeant Ellie Sproat of Bolton CID said: “We are truly grateful to the victims in this case, who, through their bravery, have seen a prolific child sex offender, who used his positions of power to his commit his crimes, taken off the streets of Greater Manchester.

“We understand that they have been through a shared, horrific experience and whilst today’s result doesn’t take away that experience, we hope that this goes someway to allowing them to heal and come to terms with what has happened to them.

“We are interested in hearing from anyone who believes they have been a victim of child sexual abuse by Newmarch and we are asking them to contact GMP. This can be done by calling 101 or using the Live Chat function on our website, www.gmp.police.uk. You will be believed, and we will investigate thoroughly every claim.

“If something doesn’t feel right, report it.”

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.