Inspectors rate leadership and partnership working as ‘good’ but highlight inconsistent risk assessments

SOUTH WALES POLICE has been praised for its strong leadership and partnership work in protecting children from harm — but inspectors have called for improvements in how the force assesses risk and investigates abuse cases.

A report published on Thursday (Nov 14) by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) examined how the force responds to children at risk, how effectively it investigates allegations of abuse, and how well it works with safeguarding partners.

The inspectors concluded that “the concerted efforts of officers and staff, extending from operational teams to strategic leaders, are helping to achieve better outcomes for children.”

The report rated the force’s leadership, partnership work, and response to children at risk as good, but said performance in assessing risk and investigating abuse, neglect and exploitation was only adequate.

The inspection found that officers were “committed and caring,” and praised the establishment of specialist exploitation teams and the force’s investment in training. However, it also identified inconsistency in the supervision of child protection cases and delays in recording safeguarding decisions.

Assistant Chief Constable Tom Williams said the findings reflected the dedication of staff across South Wales Police and the importance the force places on protecting the most vulnerable.

He said: “Every day our officers and staff, both on the frontline and in specialist roles, work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable people in our communities from harm. I am really pleased that our work on child protection has been recognised by HM Inspectorate.

“In such a complex area of policing there will be ways we can get better, which is why we have increased training and set up dedicated exploitation teams that have already made a difference in identifying and investigating offences of grooming and child sexual exploitation.

“There is more work to do, but we are totally committed to protecting children from harm and playing an integral role in the wider network of partners across South Wales who keep young people safe.”

South Wales Police urged anyone concerned that a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect to report it, promising that all reports will be taken seriously and investigated.

The full HMICFRS report can be read at: South Wales Police: National child protection inspection – HMICFRS.

A WELL-KNOWN family-run village shop in North Pembrokeshire has been put up for sale after more than half a century of ownership.

Letterston Village Stores has been instructed for sale through specialist business property adviser Christie & Co, with a freehold asking price of £465,000.

The popular store was built in 1974 and has been run by brother and sister duo Gerwyn Howells and Marilyn Griffiths for the past 20 years. The pair have now decided to retire.

The detached property includes a spacious sales area with scope to expand the business by introducing new product lines, as well as a large three-bedroom apartment above the shop, which could be used as owners’ accommodation or rented out for additional income.

Marilyn Griffiths said: “I have really enjoyed running the store. Our customers are fantastic, and I have made many friends over the years. It was a very hard decision to sell, but the time has come to think about the future and retirement plans. I have instructed Matthew McFarlane from Christie & Co to manage the sale process for me.”

Matthew McFarlane, Business Agent at Christie & Co, added: “We are delighted to have been instructed to sell this business by Marilyn and Gerwyn. It has been in the family for over 50 years and offers an exciting opportunity for either a first-time business owner or a multi-operator.”

The property is available freehold at £465,000.
For more information, visit: www.christie.com/3410544

Armed officers among first responders – emergency department remains open

DYFED-POWYS POLICE are investigating a serious incident outside the Emergency Department at Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen, after a person was struck by a car late on Saturday morning (Nov 15).

A report was received shortly after 11:00am that an individual had been injured in a collision outside the hospital’s main entrance. The injured person has been admitted to hospital for treatment.

There is a significant police presence at the scene while officers examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Access to the Emergency Department has been partially restricted, though hospital officials confirmed the unit remains open and entry is being managed by staff.

Police have confirmed that armed officers were among the first to arrive, but stressed their presence was only because they were the nearest available unit at the time of the call.

A spokesperson said: “We are currently dealing with a collision that has taken place outside Glangwili Hospital’s Emergency Department. There will be a police presence for a number of hours as enquiries continue.”

Hywel Dda Health Board said: “Please take care and follow police guidance on where to park and how you access our site.

“Please be aware that traffic flow on site may be different to usual and what you may expect.

“Thank you to you, and the police, for your support.”

The Herald understands the scene will remain cordoned off for much of the afternoon while collision investigators work at the site.