Minister welcomes National Adviser for Violence Against Women

Public Services Minister Leighton Andrews has welcomed Rhian Bowen-Davies on her first day as National Adviser for Violence against Women, Gender-based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence.

Ms Bowen-Davies leaves her previous role as Chief Executive of Calan DVS, with extensive experience of the violence against women sector. Earlier in her career she served as a police officer in South Wales Police, qualifying as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate.

The ground-breaking Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Act 2015 included the appointment of a National Adviser. The Adviser will work with the sector, and with victims and survivors to drive improvements in the way services are planned, commissioned and delivered. She will share good practice and advise Ministers on progress in reducing the impact and prevalence of these heinous crimes.

Leighton Andrews said:

“Rhian’s expertise in the field of violence against women, and her strong leadership and communication skills, are ideal for this role. I look forward to working with her as we take forward our ground-breaking legislation.”

Rhian Bowen-Davies said:

“I’m looking forward to fulfilling my role as Wales’ first National Adviser, driving improvements across Wales relating to leadership and accountability at all levels and improving the consistency and quality of services for all individuals and families experiencing violence and abuse.

“The Act demonstrates Wales’ commitment to tackling all forms of violence against women, gender-based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence and I’m looking forward to working with stakeholders and survivors to make a real difference here in Wales.”