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
Free naloxone training session announced for Pembroke Dock
A FREE life-saving training session is set to take place in Pembroke Dock next month, giving people the skills to respond to suspected drug overdoses.
RM Training and Security Solutions has confirmed it will host a naloxone (Naxoline) training course at The Cricketers in Pembroke Dock on Tuesday (June 9) from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
The session is being delivered in partnership with the Dyfed Drug and Alcohol Service (DDAS) and is open to anyone, including security staff, venue teams, event workers and members of the public.
Organisers say the training is designed to be quick, practical and accessible, equipping attendees with the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency.
Those taking part will learn how to recognise the signs of an overdose, what to do in a critical situation, how to safely administer naloxone, and gain an understanding of basic harm reduction.
Naloxone is a medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses and can be administered via a nasal spray.
RM Training and Security Solutions said the session forms part of a wider effort to improve safety across communities, particularly in nightlife and public-facing environments.
Places are limited, and early booking is advised. Those interested can book via the company’s website or contact the organisers directly for more information.
Photo caption:
Life-saving skills: Free naloxone training will be held at The Cricketers in Pembroke Dock on Tuesday (June 9).

Community
Security firm meets councillors over town safety concerns
A MEETING has been held at Haverfordwest Town Council offices to discuss community safety and security concerns in the town.
Councillor Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner welcomed RM Training and Security Solutions for what he described as a “productive and forward-thinking” discussion.
He was joined by Deputy Mayor-elect Cllr Adam Benson Davis and the Sheriff of Haverfordwest, Cllr Dani Thomas-Turner, for the meeting with Ryan Mayne and Matthew Davis of RM Training and Security Solutions.
The discussion focused on concerns facing the community, including public safety, anti-social behaviour and the need for practical partnership working to help support residents, businesses and visitors.
Cllr Thomas-Turner said the meeting was open and honest, with all parties keen to look at constructive ways of improving safety and confidence in the town.
Further discussions are expected as councillors continue to explore possible community-led solutions.
Photo caption:
Town safety talks: Councillors met with representatives of RM Training and Security Solutions at Haverfordwest Town Council offices.
Community
Port invests almost £500,000 in Pembrokeshire communities
YOUNG people, water safety projects and environmental schemes across Pembrokeshire benefited from almost half a million pounds of support from the Port of Milford Haven during 2025.
The Port said its investment reflected another year of commitment to strengthening local communities, building confidence among young people, improving access to the Milford Haven Waterway and supporting environmental resilience across the county.
Its community support focused on three main themes: a safe, inclusive and enjoyable Waterway; a skilled and confident community, with a particular focus on young people; and a sustainable and resilient environment.

Water safety projects delivered with Windswept, Paddle West and Blue Horizons CIC helped more people access the Waterway safely, including skills sessions and boat trips for people of all abilities and backgrounds.
The Port also supported Tenby Surf Life Saving Club and Porthmawr Surf Life Saving Club, helping provide training and safety equipment for volunteers carrying out lifesaving work.
Youth support
long-standing partnerships also remained central to the Port’s community investment.
Its continued work with Milford Youth Matters supported initiatives including Under the Bridge and the Winter Warmers scheme, providing safe and warm spaces for young people during the colder months.
Support for Megan’s Starr Foundation funded more than 300 hours of counselling for young people, helping improve mental health and wellbeing.
The Port also worked with Pembrokeshire County Council and Milford Haven Town Council to help keep a vital library resource open.
Support continued for the Torch Theatre, which delivered opportunities for young people outside traditional academic or sporting settings and won an award in 2025.
In partnership with the SPARC Alliance, the Port also helped encourage young women to explore careers in STEM, with 172 girls enrolled in the programme.
Environmental work
The Port said it remained proud to support the Pembrokeshire Marine SAC Officer post, recognising the importance of protecting and sharing the county’s special marine environment.
It also highlighted its role with the Milford Haven Waterway Environment Surveillance Group, which has monitored the Waterway’s habitats and wildlife for more than thirty years.
The Port has also supported Cymbrogi Futures in delivering the Tomorrow’s Changemakers Hackathon programme for schools across Pembrokeshire.
Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Our community investments are some of the most rewarding ways we support people across Pembrokeshire.
“Every year we see incredible dedication from local groups working to make our communities safer, more inclusive, and more inspiring, especially for young people.
“We are particularly proud that in 2026 the fund will be focusing further on supporting projects that help young people gain skills and grow in confidence.
“Our investment in people today helps create a stronger, more inclusive and ambitious generation tomorrow.”
The Port of Milford Haven is the UK’s top energy port and Wales’ busiest port, handling around 20% of Britain’s seaborne trade in oil and gas. It also owns and operates Pembroke Port and Milford Waterfront.
Photo caption: Water safety projects delivered with Windswept, Paddle West and Blue Horizons CIC helped more people access the Waterway safely.
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