Join a gang and you'll face rape and abuse, girls are warned

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Equalities Minister Lynne Featherstone highlighted the "hidden issue" as the Government announced a £1.2 million fund to help victims of sexual violence and exploitation.

Ms Featherstone, Liberal Democrat MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, spoke during a visit to Lilian Baylis Technology School in Kennington.

She said: "Everyone will be shocked by the level of violence girls and young women have to experience if they get involved with gangs, and it has been a very hidden issue."

Lilian Baylis pupils aged 14 and 15 were told by youth workers and police how girls are at the bottom of the gang hierarchy. They were also told what a rape conviction would lead to, and what prison would be like for the offender.

Detective Inspector Allen Davis said: "Girls need to know they are used and abused within gangs, they are passed around and are second-class citizens.

"Ultimately girls are disposable. It's the boys that gain status and respect by ... committing crime and hurting people. Girls get status in this world by who they have sex with and it makes them very vulnerable."

Under the Home Office scheme, 13 Young People's Advocates will work in gang-affected areas to support those who have suffered or are at risk.