Dudley Council is today, Monday 21st February 2000, following up an allegation made by a local Brierley Hill man that he was subjected to sexual abuse whilst living at Saltwells House approximately 20 years ago. This allegation came to light following an article in the Express and Star, Friday 18th February 2000, in which it was reported that the Greater Manchester Police were extending their enquiries to the West Midlands area as part of ‘Operation Cleopatra’. Dick Colligan, Dudley Council ‘s Chief Education Officer, said:

“The Council is extending full co-operation to the Police in the conduct of this historical enquiry and the more recent allegation. I would like to re-assure all concerned that these allegation do not involve any staff or young people currently at Saltwells House. Safeguards are in place to ensure that good practice operates in accordance with national guidelines. This includes encouraging young people to raise any concerns that they might have at any time.”

A Dudley MBC corporate pess release