News
Wales stands firm in support for Ukraine
IN THE latest update on the Ukraine crisis, Wales’s Minister for Social Justice Jane Hutt thanked all those households across Wales who have come forward to offer their homes to Ukrainians fleeing the War and encouraged more households to provide this vital support.
APPEAL FOR MORE HOST FAMILIES
The Minister for Social Justice said: “I’m delighted to say that over 5,650 people from Ukraine, sponsored by the Welsh Government and Welsh households, have already arrived in the UK.
“More than 8,200 visas have now been issued to people from Ukraine who have sponsors in Wales, so we expect the number of arrivals to continue to grow in the coming weeks.
“Thousands of Welsh households sponsored Ukrainians to arrive in Wales and committed to hosting them for at least six months.
“As we move into the autumn, we approach the end of that initial period.
“We hope hosts and Ukrainians will agree to extend many of those placements, but we need additional hosts to support those who cannot continue living where they are.
“To ensure a warm welcome to Wales, I’m inviting households across Wales to come forward and open their homes to welcome those seeking sanctuary.
“We’re immensely thankful to all those across Wales acting as hosts to Ukrainians, but more households must come forward.
“I completely understand that there are those who want to help but may not have the resources to do so, given the circumstances we’re all facing with the cost-of-living crisis.”
WALES WILL STEP UP TO THE PLATE
Jane Hutt continued: “What we all know, and has been proven countless times, is that the people of Wales are one of the most generous across the globe, and I’m sure we will step up to the plate once again.
“The idea of hosting can be daunting. That’s why we have funded Housing Justice Cymru to provide a Host Support service which includes expert and reliable information, training, advice, and guidance for people hosting, or those considering hosting, Ukrainians in Wales.
“More information on sessions and training can be found on the Housing Justice Cymru website. We also publish regularly updated guidance for hosts and sponsors at gov. wales/ukraine.
“We still need many more households to consider whether they could provide a home for those in need. This would normally be a commitment to hosting for 6 to 12 months.
“If anyone is considering this, we encourage them to register their interest at gov.wales/offerhome, and to attend one of the ‘Introduction to Hosting’ sessions, facilitated by Housing Justice Cymru. You won’t need to continue the process if you decide it is not for you.
“We have also partnered with Airbnb.org to ensure very short-term emergency placements can be provided to prevent homelessness.
“If you cannot host for more than 6 months but you could offer your property for up to 30 days at a time, you may also be able to contribute. Visit gov.wales/offerhome and follow the link to the Airbnb.org platform.”
Finally, the Minister stated: “We will continue to communicate with those who host Ukrainians, with updated guidance and information to support the valuable role you are undertaking.
“To all those that are already hosting and to those that are considering hosting, thank you, we owe you all a huge debt of gratitude.”
WESTMINSTER MUST BACK HOSTS
DURING COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS
Conservative MS Mark Isherwood raised how the cost-of-living crisis affects Ukrainian refugees.
Where families had taken in those fleeing Russian aggression, he noted a risk of sponsorships not continuing beyond six months because the hosts cannot afford the rise in fuel costs.
He asked the Minister what discussions she’d had with the UK Government about increasing the £350 contribution to households who’d taken in Ukrainian refugees.
The Minister agreed with Mark Isherwood that ending a specific ministerial post dealing with refugees was regrettable.
She noted a lack of information from the UK Government over the summer months and since Liz Truss replaced Boris Johnson as head of the Conservative Government.
Ms Hutt said: “We asked for an increase at least to £500, or up again, doubling to £700 per month. An urgent decision is needed regarding this as they reach the end of their six-month period.
“That period is underway, so we’re writing to all hosts to see if they will continue.”
UK GOVERNMENT URGED
TO PICK UP THE PHONE
The Minister thanked Mark Isherwood for introducing her to a charity offering support in North Wales, Link, and hoped that he and his colleagues would bring pressure to bear on their Westminster colleagues to ensure those in need from Ukraine and those in Wales helping them received support.
She added: “I look forward perhaps that we might have some telephone calls from the Prime Minister and other Ministers to us in Government. We must engage with them and follow this through.
“There is a huge job of work to be done here. We’re taking responsibility in the way I’ve outlined, funding our welcome centres and paying thank-you payments to hosts if they support a family who initially arrived in Wales under the Ukraine family scheme.
“That’s not happening in England. The commitment that we’re making is considerable.
“I hope everyone will join us today, saying that we need to press for those answers in terms of financial support.”
THE THREAT OF HOMELESSNESS
Sioned Williams of Plaid Cymru raised the spectre of Ukrainian refugees becoming homeless in Wales due to a lack of financial support and the end of existing hosting and housing placements.
The Minister praised the work of local authorities across Wales supporting refugees.
She said: “There are very imaginative programmes. That includes a whole range of issues like repurposing empty buildings.
“Local authorities are really coming up with a whole range of ways in which we can support people, perhaps, from a welcome centre, or a host family, into that intermediate accommodation, and then on to other longer-term accommodation.”
Pembrokeshire currently houses around 200 Ukrainian refugees, with the demand for assistance outstripping the availability of suitable accommodation.
NOT ONE PENNY FROM WESTMINSTER
TO SUPPORT FAMILIES FLEEING WAR
Responding to a question from Mabon ap Gwynfor about problems housing family groups, Jane Hutt hit out at the lack of support from the UK Government and how it’s u-turned on a commitment to help families.
“The UK Government has never given a penny towards the family scheme.
“The former Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, in one of his last PMQs, actually said that he thought the Ukraine family scheme should get the same funding and support as the Homes for Ukraine scheme. It’s never happened.
“We have provided thank-you payments to people who are hosting Ukrainian families. It’s all Welsh Government money; it’s not UK Government, because they don’t provide a penny. And also, the British Red Cross—£246,000—who are actually supporting Ukrainian families who are hosting family members under the Ukrainian family scheme.”
On Wednesday, September 28, Eluned Morgan, Wales’s Health Minister, announced the continuation of free healthcare in Wales to Ukrainian residents displaced by the ongoing conflict.
The exemption will continue to apply unless there’s a significant change in circumstances in Ukraine.
IN RECENT years, concerns have grown among Pembrokeshire residents regarding the perceived high number of child sexual offences in the area. High-profile cases and anecdotal evidence have contributed to speculation that the Dyfed-Powys region, particularly Pembrokeshire, experiences these crimes at a higher rate than other parts of the UK. But do the statistics support this perception?
National overview
The Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW) for the year ending March 2022 estimated that 2.3% of adults aged 16 years and over had experienced sexual assault (including attempts) in the previous year. Police in England and Wales recorded 193,566 sexual offences, the highest level on record. Among these, 103,055 identifiable child sexual abuse (CSA) offences were reported.
Key findings include:
- Gender Dynamics: 82% of offenders were male, while 79% of victims were female.
- Offender Age: 52% of young perpetrators (aged 10 to 17) abused other children, with 14 being the most common age.
How do Dyfed-Powys figures compare nationally?
Statistical analysis of CSA cases in Dyfed-Powys presents a complex picture. While any number of such crimes is concerning, data does not indicate that the area is significantly worse than the rest of the country.
In the year leading up to March 2023:
- Dyfed-Powys Police recorded 192 crimes related to child sexual abuse images—the lowest among Wales’ four police forces.
- When adjusted for population, Dyfed-Powys had 37 offences per 100,000 residents, the lowest rate in Wales. In comparison:
- South Wales Police recorded 74 per 100,000.
- North Wales Police recorded 76 per 100,000.
- Gwent Police recorded 84 per 100,000, the highest in Wales.
Between 2018 and 2023, Dyfed-Powys recorded 13 cases where sexual offences led to the sentencing or cautioning of an under-18, showing a marginal increase. Over six years, police recorded six allegations of rape and 61 allegations of sexual assault against children under 10, lower than North Wales, which recorded 20 rapes and 33 sexual assaults for the same age group.
Despite these figures, Dyfed-Powys Police have expressed concerns about a rise in online child exploitation. In 2018, for example, an estimated 55-58% of rape cases in the region involved victims under 18, demonstrating the significance of CSA within overall sexual crime.
The Pembrokeshire picture
Pembrokeshire has been a focal point for CSA cases within Dyfed-Powys.
Between September 2022 and September 2023, Pembrokeshire recorded the second-highest number of reported sexual offences in Dyfed-Powys, accounting for almost a quarter of all cases in the region. Several high-profile cases have reinforced public concerns, including the jailing of Paul Chesher (Milford Haven) and ex-mayor Terry Judkins (Pembroke Dock).
Additionally, historical abuse remains a significant factor. The December 2024 review into Caldey Abbey on Caldey Island revealed extensive historical CSA by members of the monastic community, contributing to long-term concerns about safeguarding failures.
Why Wales records higher CSA rates
While Pembrokeshire’s CSA rates are concerning, it is important to consider broader factors influencing these statistics across Wales:
- Rural policing challenges: Dyfed-Powys covers a vast rural area, making detection and prevention harder than in urban regions.
- Improved reporting and safeguarding: Higher CSA reports may result from stronger safeguarding policies and greater awareness rather than increased offending.
- Historical cases coming to light: Reviews of past offences, such as the Caldey Island scandal, have increased overall CSA statistics in recent years.
- Variability in support services: Limited access to specialist victim support in rural Wales may delay investigations and reporting.
Notably, in 2022, Dyfed-Powys had one of the highest rates of child sexual exploitation per capita in Wales, highlighting ongoing concerns.
Reporting and underreporting
CSA is frequently underreported due to stigma, fear, and the relationship between victim and perpetrator. This underreporting can create discrepancies between actual prevalence and recorded cases.
Are offenders being moved to Pembrokeshire?
A common local concern is that convicted sex offenders are being relocated to Pembrokeshire. However, there is no official evidence to support this claim.
As of March 2022:
- 587 convicted sex offenders were managed under Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) in Dyfed-Powys.
- This number has increased from 514 in 2020 to 587 in 2022.
- Dyfed-Powys recorded 126 sex offenders per 100,000 people, in line with the national average.
- Unlike other forces, Dyfed-Powys Police have rejected all applications from offenders seeking removal from the sex offenders register.
While the increasing number of registered offenders is concerning, the rise likely reflects improved detection and reporting rather than a deliberate relocation policy.
Protests highlining the issue in Pembrokeshire
In Pembrokeshire, public protests against the presence of sex offenders in local communities have been notable, often amplified through social media and press coverage. These demonstrations have played a significant role in shaping public perception regarding the prevalence of child sex offenders in the area.
Notable protests in Pembrokeshire
- Milford Haven protest (December 2024): Approximately 70 residents gathered in Wentworth Close, Milford Haven, protesting the bail release of Jamie Hughes, who had pleaded guilty to possessing over 400 Category A child abuse images—the most severe classification. The protest led to a substantial police presence, including armed response units, to maintain order.
- Burton demonstration (January 2025): Around 40 individuals assembled outside a residential address in Burton, objecting to the bail granted to a man accused of abusing a baby. The peaceful protest highlighted community concerns over the suspect’s presence in their vicinity.
- Hubberston incident (December 2024): A large protest occurred in Hubberston, where residents expressed outrage over a man released on bail after pleading guilty to possessing child abuse images. The situation escalated to the point where police had to remove the individual from his residence for his safety.
Influence of media and social platforms
These protests have been extensively covered by local and regional media outlets. Social media has further amplified these events, with live broadcasts and widespread sharing increasing their visibility. This extensive coverage contributes to heightened public awareness and concern, potentially leading to the perception that child sex offenders are more prevalent in Pembrokeshire than statistics alone might suggest.
Research indicates that media portrayals can significantly influence public perceptions of crime, often leading to misconceptions about the frequency and nature of offences. For instance, sensationalized reporting can create a perception gap, where the public believes crime rates are higher than official statistics indicate.
In Pembrokeshire, the combination of high-profile protests, extensive media coverage, and the viral nature of social media content has likely contributed to a heightened perception of the prevalence of child sex offenders in the community. While community vigilance is crucial, it’s essential to balance public concern with factual data to avoid unnecessary fear and ensure informed discussions on public safety.
Conclusion
There is no conclusive evidence that Pembrokeshire experiences higher CSA rates than other parts of the UK. However, the county has seen significant cases, contributing to local fears. High-profile convictions, historical abuse revelations, and an increasing number of registered sex offenders have fueled public concern.
Authorities continue to strengthen policies such as Operation Soteria Bluestone, aimed at improving investigations. Police anticipate further rises in online CSA cases, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance. With public concern still high, transparency and continuous crime analysis will remain essential to safeguarding children and addressing community fears.
THREE men have been sentenced to eight years and one month each after luring a man to a remote location in west Wales, where they kidnapped and assaulted him in a carefully orchestrated scheme.
Mohammad Comrie, 22, of Leeds; Faiz Shah, 22, of Bradford; and Elijah Ogunnubi-Sime, 20, of Croydon, deceived a London-based music producer into travelling to Carmarthenshire on August 26, 2024, under the false pretense of attending a music recording camp. Once there, the victim was subjected to significant violence and restrained with handcuffs.
The perpetrators had arranged the trip using a fabricated music production and recording company, leading the victim to believe he was meeting fellow musicians for a legitimate session.
While his captors were out of the room, the victim managed to escape by lifting his handcuffed hands over a pole to free himself. He fled the property and was later taken to hospital with injuries to his face and head.
The three men attempted to evade capture but were found hiding in fields near the property in Brynteg, Llanybydder. Police responded swiftly, deploying significant resources, including a helicopter, to locate them following reports of an assault.
All three were arrested and later charged. They pleaded guilty to kidnapping on the first day of their trial at Swansea Crown Court on February 18. Additional charges of unlawful wounding and inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent were ordered to lie on file.
Inspector Gareth Jones, Deputy Senior Investigating Officer, said: “This offence has had a profound and lasting impact on the victim and his family. It was a meticulously planned crime, involving false identities and deception.
“Early messages between the defendants revealed their ultimate intention to kidnap the victim. Their motive appeared two-fold: to extort money from him and to act on political and racial motivations.
“I commend the investigative team for their determination and professionalism, as well as the officers who carried out an extensive and difficult search to locate the defendants and recover crucial evidence. Securing justice for the victim has remained our priority.
“I also extend my gratitude to the Community Security Trust (CST) for providing the victim with vital psychological and emotional support.
“Today’s sentences reflect the severity of this crime and the ordeal suffered by the victim. We hope this outcome brings him a sense of justice, and we thank him for his bravery and patience throughout this investigation.”
THE SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP will remain on free-to-air television in the UK until at least 2029 following a landmark new agreement between the BBC and ITV. The deal, announced today, ensures that rugby fans across the country can continue watching the prestigious tournament without needing a subscription service.
The agreement follows months of speculation that the tournament could move behind a paywall, with TNT Sports expressing interest in bidding for the rights. The BBC and ITV’s renewed partnership secures accessibility for the competition for the next four years, preserving the tradition of free-to-air coverage.
NEW BROADCASTING AGREEMENT
Under the new agreement, which runs from 2026 to 2029:
ITV will broadcast ten live matches each season, including all of England’s fixtures. These will be available across ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player, with highlights and exclusive content shared via ITV Sport’s digital platforms.
BBC will air five live matches each season, covering Wales, Scotland, and Ireland’s home games. The broadcaster will also retain audio commentary rights for all Six Nations matches on BBC Sounds, BBC Radio, and online platforms.
BBC will continue to be the exclusive home of the Women’s Six Nations and U20 Six Nations.
REACTIONS FROM BROADCASTERS AND RUGBY OFFICIALS
The new agreement has been widely welcomed, with key figures from the BBC, ITV, and Six Nations Rugby celebrating the deal as a significant victory for fans and the sport’s growth.
BBC Cymru Wales Director Rhuanedd Richards described the news as “wonderful” for Welsh rugby supporters:
“I have always been a passionate advocate for keeping the Six Nations on free-to-air television, and I’m so pleased that the BBC, working with ITV, has ensured this can continue for the next four years. The viewing figures speak for themselves—hundreds of thousands tune in to watch these incredible tournaments, and we look forward to bringing the very best coverage to Welsh audiences.”
ITV Director of Sport Niall Sloane highlighted the importance of keeping the tournament accessible:
“This is a monumental deal for rugby fans and ITV, ensuring the Guinness Men’s Six Nations Championship stays on free-to-air television. We are proud to be the home of all England matches for the duration of the deal, including England’s much-revered clashes with Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The tournament is always one of the sporting highlights of the year.”
BBC Sport Director Alex Kay-Jelski added: “This deal is fantastic news for rugby and the BBC, keeping the sport accessible for as many people as possible. We are proud to bring the biggest sporting moments to our audiences, and this new deal is the perfect news ahead of our exclusive coverage of the Women’s Rugby World Cup this summer.”
First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “This is great news for rugby fans across Wales and the future of the game here in general.
“We have consistently advocated that the Six Nations should remain free-to-air so the majority of the Welsh population are able to enjoy and be inspired by this special tournament.
“There’s no question that rugby, and the Six Nations, are of significant cultural importance to Wales and we hope to see today’s good rugby news extend into the weekend and the Super Saturday match against England!”
WHY THIS DEAL MATTERS
The announcement comes amid growing concerns about the financial state of Welsh rugby and the accessibility of the sport to future generations. The deal ensures that audiences across the UK will continue to watch Six Nations rugby for free, protecting one of the sport’s most valuable showcases.
Recent pressure from politicians, including a campaign by the Liberal Democrats, had called for the Six Nations to be added to the UK’s “Category A” list of sporting events that must remain on free-to-air television. While the tournament is not yet protected by this status, the new agreement safeguards its availability for the next four years.
Tom Harrison, CEO of Six Nations Rugby, emphasised the significance of the deal: “The significance of these new and innovative free-to-air partnerships for the Six Nations cannot be overstated. By strengthening rugby’s relationships with ITV and BBC, the sport can continue to give as many fans as possible access to enjoy live coverage of the Six Nations.”
“The commercial environment in which rugby is operating is extremely challenging, and the battle for audience attention has never been greater. But the Six Nations stands alongside the very greatest occasions in world sport, which is reflected by these partnerships.”
FUTURE OF RUGBY BROADCASTING
The deal also reaffirms the BBC and ITV’s commitment to rugby at a time when more sports are shifting toward pay-per-view models.
ITV’s sports rights portfolio includes other major events such as the Men’s FIFA World Cup 2026, Men’s Euros 2028, The FA Cup, and the Carabao Cup.
BBC Sport’s portfolio includes the Olympic Games, Women’s Euros 2025, Women’s Super League, Wimbledon, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025.
The decision to keep the Six Nations free-to-air reflects the tournament’s significance to UK sports culture. The competition regularly attracts millions of viewers, and its continued accessibility ensures that rugby remains at the heart of the sporting calendar for fans across all backgrounds.
For now, supporters can breathe a sigh of relief—Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, France, and Italy will continue battling for Six Nations glory live on BBC and ITV, without the need for a subscription.
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