Written question WQ83727

The act of spiking is an insidious crime, it removes a person’s dignity, right and freedom. It is a prime example of misuse of power and control. We understand the genuine concern of women and young girls around their safety, particularly in the night time economy setting.

The police force response is important to addressing violence against women and girls more broadly but particularly in relation to the recent incidents of spiking specifically. Officials have discussed the issue with partners at the Policing in Wales VAWDASV task force and have been reassured that they are taking the issue seriously and they are working closely with their local authorities, universities and other partner organisations to tackle this crime and make women and girls feel safe to go out.

While policing and justice in Wales are not currently devolved, we will continue to work in partnership with specialist services to raise awareness of the inequality and safety issues faced by women and girls and with Welsh police forces, Police and Crime commissioners, public safety boards and the Crown Prosecution Service so people have the confidence to report and hold abusers and perpetrators of violence to account.

We are strengthening our Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) Strategy to include a focus on violence and harassment against women in the public space as well as the home in order to make Wales the safest place in Europe to be a woman.

The refreshed strategy has been developed alongside a group of key partner organisations including the specialist sector; and aims to increase joint working with agencies such as the police and criminal justice agencies to ensure that activity is complementary in tackling all forms of violence against women and girls.

The Minister for Social Justice meets regularly with the lead Police and Crime Commissioner to share and discuss emerging community issues from across Wales.

Through our Live Fear Free campaigns we will continue to raise awareness of harassment, abuse and violence against women in all aspects of life including the street and other public places. These campaigns provide practical advice for those who may be suffering abuse as well as highlighting the support available to enable friends, family and the wider community to recognise harassment and abuse and take safe action.