One Wales Government Consultation

Last week the One Wales Government launched a consultation on domestic abuse. It is important that a proper strategy is in place in Wales to deal with domestic violence and that’s why I welcome the launch of this consultation. Domestic abuse takes many forms in our society, and it is vital that the strategy recognises this. Therefore it is important that people from all walks of life, with experience of domestic abuse take part in the consultation process, and have their say.
It is a positive step that the Welsh government is developing a Wales specific strategy, designed to fit Welsh needs in terms of domestic abuse. However I am concerned that this strategy doesn’t address violence against women specifically. Scotland already has a violence against women strategy in place and one is currently being developed in England. I am concerned that without such a strategy in place, women in Wales will miss out on vital help and support. I will be raising these issues with the Minister in order to impress upon him the need to develop this strategy into one that addresses the issues faced by women specifically.

It is important that we have a proper strategy in place to deal with these issues in Wales. We need to empower people to speak out and get the support they need. I am hopeful that the strategy will play an important role in stopping the cycle of violence. This consultation document highlights how a Christmas advertising campaign led to an increase in calls to the helpline. By developing an effective strategy we can ensure that successful initiatives like this are improved upon and repeated.

Nerys

The Purple Directory

I just wanted to let you know about a new service directory for domestic abuse that has been launched across Dyfed- Powys. The website www.thepurpledirectory.org is now live in 3 languages - Welsh, English and Polish.

If you have an opportunity please tell other people about the website.

Thanks,
Nerys

Domestic Abuse Guide launched

Recently I was involved with the a launch of a new guide that informs Assembly Members what they should do if they are approached by a constituent experiencing domestic abuse. This is a initiative from the Welsh Government and the Minister for Social Justice Dr. Brian Gibbons explained that this guide will enable Assembly Members to help constituents that may be suffering domestic abuse.

We as Assembly Members and politicians in general have a role to play to support victims of domestic abuse through our casework and this guide will help us to do that. If you are suffering from domestic abuse and don’t know where to go for help you can get in touch with your local AM .