Protecting children in GM: Child Protection Investigation Unit’s ongoing commitment to community safety

Rochdale’s Child Protection Investigation Unit (CPIU) is a specialist team dedicated to safeguarding children and bringing offenders to justice. Officers investigate the most serious crimes against children, including physical and sexual abuse, forced marriage and honour-based violence.

The CPIU play a vital role in protecting the children and young people in Rochdale, working tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable members of the community. The team respond to reports of abuse, exploitation or assault, with professionalism, determination and compassion ensuring that people are heard and supported.

The team consists of two Detective Sergeants, nine Detective Constables and one Police Constable. They work closely with social care, education and health professionals to identify risk, protect vulnerable children and ensure coordinated safeguarding responses. This multi-agency approach highlights a commitment from officers to prevention and intervention.

On a daily basis, the team supports children and families, arrest suspects, conduct complex investigation and use police protection powers when necessary to keep children safe from immediate harm.

In the past year, the division has made over 300 arrests in connection with child protection cases, with many of the investigations resulting in charges and convictions.

The team consistently manage a high volume of complex cases, ensuring swift action when children are at risk. Their commitment extends beyond investigations, focusing on early identification of risk, building trust with families and strengthening community resilience.

Earlier this year, the Rochdale CPIU were recognised for their hard work and commitment to safeguarding children across GM after winning the divisional award for Team of the Year 2025.

Following this nomination, they were then also nominated last month for Team of the Year at the Chief’s Annual Awards, showcasing their continuous efforts to protect our young people and wider communities.

Detective Sergeant David Gill from the CPIU said: “Every day, our priority is the safety and wellbeing of children in Rochdale.

“The work of the Child Protection Investigation Unit is challenging, but vital and the officers and staff in this unit go above and beyond each day. I’m immensely proud of the team and the important work they do to safeguard children.

“By acting quickly, working closely with our partners and relentlessly pursuing offenders, we are able to protect vulnerable children and make our communities safer”