Community

Wales tops UK for domestic abuse helpline searches

Published

9 months ago

September 24, 2025

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

Man found dead near Carmarthen railway line died from hypothermia

Published

2 hours ago

June 17, 2026

Court Reporter

A 32-YEAR-OLD man found dead near Carmarthen Train Station died after taking shelter on a bitterly cold night, an inquest has heard.

Edward Mark Owen, originally from Birmingham but living in Ystradgynlais, was discovered in a field beside the railway line on the approach to Carmarthen station on Saturday, January 10.

A Transport for Wales train driver had spotted what appeared to be a body lying face down near the track shortly after 8:30am.

Police and railway staff attended and found Mr Owen lying face down and topless in the field. His coat, T-shirt, phone and cigarettes were found nearby.

Police initially treated the death as unexplained.

Movements traced

The inquest heard that officers later traced Mr Owen’s movements from his home in Ystradgynlais to Carmarthen.

He had nowhere to stay in the town and had taken shelter under a bridge near the railway station during a particularly cold night.

The coroner said Mr Owen had “sadly succumbed to the effects of hypothermia”.

The fact that he had removed his T-shirt and coat was said to be consistent with a confused state brought on by hypothermia.

A conclusion of misadventure was recorded.

The coroner found that Mr Owen died sometime on January 10, 2026.

Community

Milford Haven firefighters prepare for key assessments

Published

2 hours ago

June 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

ON-CALL firefighters at Milford Haven Fire Station have been put through their paces as part of their weekly drill night.

The crew’s development firefighters were pictured carrying out a “drill by numbers” squad exercise ahead of upcoming assessments.

New firefighters spend their first 24 months in a development period, which is split into four stages and focuses on different operational skills and competencies.

At the end of each stage, firefighters attend a divisional training centre where their progress is assessed against the standards required by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Over the next two weeks, members of the Milford Haven crew will take part in a Stage 2 interim assessment and a Stage 4 final assessment.

One firefighter is hoping to complete the final stage and qualify as a fully competent firefighter.

The station said Wednesday nights remain an important part of training for the on-call crew, helping firefighters maintain the skills needed to respond to emergencies across the Milford Haven area.

Community

Armed Forces Day exhibition opens at VC Gallery’s new Riverside home

Published

7 hours ago

June 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A UNIQUE exhibition bringing together military history, art and veterans’ stories will open to the public in Haverfordwest as part of Armed Forces Day celebrations later this month.

The VC Gallery will host a special open day at its new Riverside Gallery on Saturday, June 27, inviting the community to explore an exhibition featuring works from the Imperial War Museum alongside historic wartime artefacts, trench art and pieces connected to celebrated Welsh artist Augustus John.

The event will also showcase contemporary artwork created by Armed Forces veterans who served in conflicts including Korea, Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Organisers say the exhibition highlights not only military history and remembrance, but also the role creativity can play in supporting mental health, wellbeing and recovery.

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to meet members of the VC Gallery team and learn more about an ambitious new project aimed at supporting veterans, families and the wider community.

The exhibition combines nationally significant historical works with personal stories of service and resilience, offering a rare opportunity to view military history through the eyes of those who experienced it.

Families are particularly welcome, with guided family art tours available by advance booking.

The event begins at 10:00am and takes place at the VC Riverside Gallery in Haverfordwest.

Anyone wishing to reserve a place on a guided family tour should email [email protected].

The VC Gallery said it is looking forward to welcoming visitors as it commemorates Armed Forces Day while celebrating the power of art, heritage and community to bring people together.