Group rape and other forms of sexual assault involving multiple perpetrators are controversial and seldom spoken of. Yet anecdotal evidence suggests that such assaults are far from unknown in some neighbourhoods. Often characterised by the very young age of both attackers and victims and the fact that they may well know each other, it is one of the most extreme demonstrations of a breakdown in social cohesion. Measures to combat knife and gun crime are being implemented. The time has now come for professionals working with marginalised young people to address this issue, which at worst sees girls who have been raped sharing a classroom with their attackers, and too afraid to seek help. |
