Written question WQ84722

The Welsh Government’s Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) Strategy 2022-2026 commits to increase the focus on holding those who commit abuse to account and supporting those who may carry out abusive or violent behaviour to change their behaviour and avoid offending; and to make early intervention and prevention a priority. The revised strategy will be published in spring 2022.

Welsh Government recognises that VAWDASV is committed primarily but not exclusively by men against women. It is important to recognise therefore that not all victims of VAWDASV are women and it can also affect men and those with a non-binary identity. All victims and survivors regardless of their gender will be supported and perpetrators, regardless of their gender, will be held to account for their actions.

In 2021/22, Welsh Government provided funding of £16,000 in order to provide training to professionals who come into contact with victims and perpetrators in their day to day roles (housing, education, social care) to help them identify, recognise and understand the signs displayed by males who may be experiencing domestic abuse.

Welsh Government continues to support the Safer Wales Dyn Project which protects and supports all males, including Gay, Heterosexual, Bisexual and Transgender men who have experienced domestic abuse in Wales. The Dyn Project works to enhance safety and increase well-being through a collaborative approach with partners across Wales.