Julie James is announcing plans to seek the views of survivors of abuse as part of a National Survivor Engagement Framework being developed.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Based in Bangor, the Centre has received more than £173,000 of Welsh Government investment to buy and renovate their new building, and the Leader of the House will tour the building and speak to members of staff there.
Julie James said:
“International Women’s Day is a chance to celebrate the impact of women in all fields of life, but also to talk more about how to tackle sexual violence and supporting survivors.
“This centre offers a vital service, which is why the Welsh Government has invested in the facilities here in Bangor.
“We are committed to ensuring that the voices of survivors of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual abuse are heard, and that they inform and shape our work.
“We are developing a National Survivor Engagement Framework, which will outline the ways in which survivors of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence will influence our work and advocate for themselves to educate their peers, communities and colleagues on their experiences.
“I want to encourage survivors to give their views and work with us to develop this; it is absolutely crucial that their voices influence this work.”
Yasmin Khan, one of the Welsh Government’s National Adviser Violence against Women, Gender-based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence, said:
“Survivors of abuse must be front and centre of the work Welsh Government is doing to end violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence. I have had the privilege of meeting a survivor who has contributed to this framework recently and we have so much to learn from those who have lived through this type of abuse.
“It is imperative we learn lessons and use this information to shape future provision and identify unmet needs. Our commitment is to listen and learn from survivors; the National Framework is highlighting the very issues we must address for those who have suffered and those at risk of harm.”
Lisa-Marie, a survivor of abuse said:
“I have worked with the Welsh Government over the past year on several projects. It is crucial that those with lived experience of abuse are able to advise on what work is needed. Nobody is in a better position to speak about abuse than those who have lived through it. It is paramount that our voices are not only heard but listened to”.
The consultation document and survey are available on the Live Fear Free website.