The recent convictions of Mohammed Zahid and six other men for the rape and grooming of two girls in Rochdale, have once again exposed deep and disturbing failures by police and social services.

Zahid, known locally as “Boss Man,” ran a lingerie stall at Rochdale Indoor Market and used it to groom vulnerable girls between 2001 and 2006. One of his victims, Girl B, was living in a children’s home at the time. Zahid was so confident he wouldn’t be stopped that he openly contacted the care home and picked her up in full view of staff. The court heard that despite repeated disclosures to social services and the care home, no action was taken.

Shockingly, Rochdale social services labelled Girl B a “prostitute” from the age of 10. This appalling mischaracterisation reflects a wider pattern of institutional failure, where vulnerable children are not only ignored but blamed for the abuse they suffer.

Sadly, it is not uncommon for survivors to tell us that they were ignored, disbelieved, or failed by the very authorities meant to protect them. Whether due to lack of training, poor communication, or systemic neglect, these failures can have lifelong consequences for those affected.

At Switalskis, we represent survivors of abuse with compassion, specialist expertise, and a deep understanding of the long-term impact these crimes can have. We recognise how difficult it is to speak out, especially when institutions have previously failed to listen. Cases like this serve as a stark reminder of why accountability matters and why survivors deserve to be heard and supported.

Finding Support

If you’ve been affected by abuse and need support, The Survivors Trust offers a free, confidential helpline for anyone aged 16 and over. You can call 0808 801 0818 or text 07860 022 956 . Visit thesurvivorstrust.org/our-helpline for full details.