Community
Wales tops UK for domestic abuse helpline searches
ONS figures show scale of epidemic as campaigners warn services are under pressure
NEW analysis has revealed that Wales records the highest rate of online searches for domestic abuse helplines anywhere in the UK.
Research by Newcastle-based family law specialists Beecham Peacock examined Google data for the terms “domestic abuse helpline” and “domestic abuse help.” Adjusted for population, Wales saw 6.03 searches per 100,000 people – ahead of the East of England (4.74) and East Midlands (4.71).
The figures offer a snapshot of where demand for support may be most urgent, and follow official statistics confirming a rise in violence against women and girls (VAWG) across England and Wales.
One in eight affected
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported in July that 12.8% of women and girls over the age of 16 experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault or stalking in 2024 – almost one in eight. Campaigners warn the true figure is higher, with many victims unwilling or unable to report abuse.
Survivors often cite fear of retaliation, fear they will not be believed, and stigma around speaking out as reasons for not reporting.
Pressure on services
In May, the UK Government announced a £20m funding boost for support services, including £6m to strengthen national helplines. But Women’s Aid’s 2025 audit showed the scale of demand, with more than 60% of referrals to refuges turned away due to lack of space.
Charlotte Talbot, a specialist family law solicitor at Beecham Peacock, said many victims are too fearful to search online at all.
“Plenty of women and girls are in desperate need of support but not searching online, often out of fear that a partner will look at their devices,” she said.
“One of the periods of greatest risk is when someone decides to leave an abusive partner. That’s why helplines and refuges are critical, providing a safer way out and ongoing support. But these services cannot survive without government funding.”
Getting help
For those unable to search online, support is available through trusted organisations and solicitors.
- In danger now: Call 999. If unable to speak, press 55 when prompted to be connected directly to police.
- Refuge: National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247 (24 hours).
- Women’s Aid: Directory of more than 550 local support services.
- Safe Spaces: Confidential help points in banks and pharmacies across the UK.
- Childline: 0800 1111 – free for under-18s, calls will not appear on phone bills.
Campaigners say the figures underline the scale of an epidemic and the urgent need for sustained funding.
“It is crucial we continue to shine a light on this issue and press for further action,” Ms Talbot said.
Community
Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes
MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.
The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.
A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.
The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community
3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire
Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event
THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.
Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.












The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.
Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.
The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.
Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.
Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Special delivery of thanks as MP visits Haverfordwest sorting office
Christmas cheer for posties working through the festive rush
A CHRISTMAS message of thanks was delivered in person this week as Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell paid a visit to Royal Mail staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office.
The MP met postal workers during one of the busiest periods of the year, praising staff for their hard work in ensuring cards, parcels and gifts reach homes across Pembrokeshire in the run-up to Christmas.
Mr Tufnell said postal workers were going “above and beyond” throughout the year, but particularly during the festive period when demand is at its highest and delivery rounds are often made in challenging weather conditions.
He described postal staff as “unsung heroes”, highlighting their role in keeping communities connected and helping families stay in touch at a time when it matters most.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Tufnell said: “Our posties play a vital role in our community, and at Christmas that importance is felt more than ever. They work incredibly hard to make sure gifts and cards from loved ones arrive safely and on time.”
Staff at the Haverfordwest site were pictured alongside the MP, with some embracing the festive spirit in Christmas jumpers and seasonal outfits while continuing their daily work.
The MP also extended his thanks to postal workers across the whole of Pembrokeshire, acknowledging the dedication required to keep services running smoothly during the seasonal rush.
Royal Mail experiences its highest parcel volumes in December, with thousands of additional items passing through local sorting offices each day as Christmas approaches.
Delivering Christmas cheer: Henry Tufnell MP with staff at Haverfordwest Sorting Office during a festive visit (Pic: Facebook).
-
Crime5 days agoPhillips found guilty of raping baby in “worst case” judge has ever dealt with
-
Crime4 days agoKilgetty scaffolder sentenced after driving with cocaine and in system
-
Crime4 days agoHousing site director sentenced after failing to provide breath sample following crash
-
Crime4 days agoMotorist banned for three years after driving with cannabis in system
-
Education3 days agoTeaching assistant struck off after asking pupil for photos of her body
-
News6 days agoJury retires tomorrow in harrowing Baby C rape trial
-
Crime4 days agoMilford Haven pensioner denies exposure charges
-
Local Government6 days agoNew defamation row erupts after anonymous website targets Herald editor







