Carl Sargeant reiterates commitment to tackling Violence Against Women

Communities and Children Secretary Carl Sargeant today reiterated his commitment to tackling Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence.

In 2012, Mr Sargeant introduced the White Paper that led to the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Act passed by the Assembly in 2015.

Speaking in the Senedd, he said:

“I feel privileged to again take on the important agenda to end violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.  It is a subject to which I have been committed for a long time and I look forward to working with National Adviser, Rhian Bowen-Davies and public sector and third party organisations to tackle the issue.

“The Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Act will improve arrangements and services for prevention, protection and support for people affected by gender-based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

“We have already, in a short space of time, made progress in implementing measures to prevent Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence and to protect and support victims.

“Though we have made significant strides but there are still many areas to progress and I’m keen to move these forward as soon as possible.  As a first step, I  will  consult on a new National Strategy and associated measures of progress and performance. The Strategy will inform a framework for regional delivery of services, based on need. We expect Local Authorities and their partners to help create  a society where everybody does live fear free.

“This is an issue close  to my heart and I am committed to continuing the excellent work done so far in implementing the Act.

I want to thank relevant organisations for their multi sector approach in working collectively towards a safer Wales.”