Written Statement - National Adviser for Violence against Women, other forms of Gender-Based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence to Step Down.

Rhian Bowen-Davies, National Adviser for Violence against Women, other forms of Gender-Based Violence, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence has confirmed that she will be stepping down from the post in the Autumn, after two years in the role.

Rhian’s appointment marked a major milestone in our commitment to drive improvements in the way services for victims and survivors of gender-based violence, domestic abuse and sexual violence are planned, commissioned and delivered. The post was the first of its kind in the UK and was one of the first achievements of the Violence against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (Wales) Act 2015.

In confirming her intentions to me, Rhian said that she felt privileged to have been the first National Adviser for Wales. She has worked extremely hard to provide leadership, increase collaboration and facilitate lasting change. Rhian is especially grateful to all those survivors who have shared their experiences to inform and shape her work and to the many stakeholders who have supported her in the role.

Rhian has also expressed her view that Wales continues to lead the way internationally in its efforts to improve responses to all forms of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence. Rhian has played a central role in these achievements since the Act was passed.

Rhian is now looking forward to applying her experience from this role  in new opportunities and challenges.

I will shortly be confirming arrangements for the appointment of a new Adviser to this important role but at this point, I would like to thank Rhian for her invaluable advice which has contributed to the achievements on this challenging and important agenda; and also, to wish her well for the future.