Welsh Women’s Aid have today published our “Living Fear Free in Wales” Manifesto for the Senedd 2026 Election. Our manifesto sets out our ambitions for the next Welsh Government and how they can work towards a world without violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence (VAWDASV).
It is vital that steps are taken in prevention, to ensure that we stop VAWDASV before it occurs. The next Welsh Government must prioritise both the needs of survivors and the capacity of service providers, ensuring that support is not only available, but effective. We must consider how a survivor experiences aspects of their life such as housing and healthcare. These systems should be set up to assist and provide support where needed. However, due to a wide variety of pressures such as budget cuts, long waiting lists and a lack of understanding, systematic barriers begin to grow. Concerningly, survivors from marginalised communities face further barriers due to a system that is not set up to support individuality.
“Ending violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence is everyone’s business. As we look to the Senedd elections and publish our manifesto, I know that every person standing for election is motivated by a commitment to service and realising a vision for Wales. This manifesto is an invitation to ensure that your vision or vote will include how to meaningfully tackle VAWDASV and achieve lasting change.”
Sara Kirkpatrick, CEO of Welsh Women’s Aid
Whilst the UK Government has pledged to halve violence against women and girls, it is vital that the Welsh Government takes urgent action to address the inequalities detailed within the manifesto.
Over the next few months, Welsh Women’s Aid look forward to engaging with candidates to build together a Wales where we all live fear free from violence.
Click here to read our “Living Fear Free in Wales” Manifesto for the Senedd 2026 Election.
If you or anyone you know needs support, help is available to you now. The Live Fear Free Helpline can provide confidential advice or support around domestic abuse, sexual violence or violence against women. It is available 24/7, 7 days a week. Call 0808 80 10 800, text 07860077333 or email [email protected]. You can also access the Live Fear Free Helpline online chat by heading to: https://www.gov.wales/live-fear-free/contact-live-fear-free.
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