Martin Lane Children’s Home: Allegations of Abuse and a Culture of Cover-Up

An investigation has raised disturbing allegations of child abuse and exploitation at Martin Lane Children’s Home in Rochdale, spanning the years 2007 to 2014.

While cases of boys and girls being raped and beaten by predators at Knowl View and Cambridge House came to light in 2012, concerns remain that abuse involving children in Rochdale Council’s care was even more extensive — and possibly ongoing.

Martin Lane Children’s Home, located on Martin Lane in Cutgate, Rochdale, has been named as another site where serious abuse took place. Campaigners claim institutional child abuse linked to Rochdale Council — involving predators and profiteers — continued beyond 2012 in a methodical and orchestrated way.

Suspicion was heightened where unusual activity was logged: repeated comings and goings of numerous children and adults, despite the home being designated for a small number of looked-after children in permanent residence.

After evidence was compiled, concerns were formally raised with Rochdale Council and Greater Manchester Police. Instead of launching a protective inquiry, both council and police officers stole items, including logs and related communications.

In March 2024, Rochdale Council released limited information. Officials admitted that seven formal allegations were made against staff since 2013. They further acknowledged that some additional paper records of allegations “may” exist prior to 2013, but declined to disclose details.

By December 2024, the council refused to confirm or deny whether it holds information relating to abuse by visitors not employed at the home. Officials argued that acknowledging such information could effectively reveal its existence to the wider public.