VALE-BASED AM Andrew RT Davies visited Barry’s domestic abuse organisation Atal y Fro and pledged his support to the campaign to “Say No! To Violence Against Women”.

Andrew visited the recently refurbished facilities at Cadoxton House and said was shocked to discover how common incidences of domestic abuse were in Wales. Recent data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales revealed that around two million people suffered sexual assault, violence, threats or abuse at the hands of a partner or family member last year. Police are called to an incidence of domestic abuse once every minute.

“I pay tribute to the great work that Atal y Fro are doing here in the Vale working with victims of domestic abuse and their families, whilst also running programmes for the perpetrators themselves that seek to educate and help them to modify their behaviour,” he said.

“These fantastic facilities are an invaluable resource to the local community, providing much needed support to families sadly affected.

“It is easy to forget that abuse is more than just physical violence and that it can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, size or strength. Emotional abuse can leave just as deep and lasting scars to the victims.”

Atal y Fro undertake education programmes in Vale schools, with children of all ages having courses.

Atal y Fro also work closely with children in families affected by abuse.

Mr Davies, the Assembly Member for South Wales Central, added: “Helping young people to recognise and understand unacceptable behaviour is one part of it which makes educational programmes essential, but Atal y Fro also offer vital support to young people who may have witnessed or experienced domestic abuse themselves.

“This is particularly important in ensuring that they not only get the care and support they need in the short term, but that they are able to go on to have healthy relationships themselves.”