1. To what extent the approach to tackling violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence is improving as a result of the obligations in the Act?

To improve the service SWFRS provide we are providing 24/7 cover for target hardening in cases where arson has been threatened. The aim of the team is to attend properties within 2 hours to provide the TH service to allow victims to remain in their own homes.

SWFRS are now also reporting to several UA MARACs. We report any interventions/interactions we have had with the names and addresses provided through the MARAC agenda. This information helps to ensure that a full history of both the victim/perpetrator and addresses are provided from a Fire Service perspective.

2. What are the most effective methods of capturing the views and experiences of survivors? Are arrangements in place to capture these experiences, and to what extent is this information being used to help inform the implementation of the Act’s provisions?

SWFRS do not capture views from survivors at present, however, after meeting with colleagues in London Fire brigade to witness a project they have started with survivors and their children which provides them with a safe environment to talk, learn life skills, team build and help to improve their confidence, we are now initiating a project to trial this in the Newport area.

The young people are able to participate in the Young Fire Fighter/Cadets programme and receive recognised award at the end of the course.

From this we will also collate evidence from survivors to inform future events so that it better meets their needs and those of their children.

3. Whether survivors of abuse are beginning to experience better responses from public authorities as a result of the Act, particularly those needing specialist services?

SWFRS – as point 1

4. Whether the National Adviser has sufficient power and independence from the Welsh Government to ensure implementation of the Act?

SWFRS – Unable to comment

5. To what extent the good practice guide to healthy relationships is successfully influencing the development of a whole school approach to challenging violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence?

SWFRS have introduced a session on Healthy Relationships into all 10 of its Young Fire-Fighter courses.

The YFF course is aimed at young people between the ages of 13-18. It is held weekly and runs for 2 years after which the attendees attain a BTEC qualification.

All YFF branch managers and course instructors have also received bespoke training on the same subject and how to signpost young people who make disclosures.