News

Evidence leaked by Minister’s phone, claims Welsh Government

Published

1 year ago

July 16, 2024

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has disclosed evidence suggesting a message from a ministerial thread, leaked to the media, originated from the phone of a government minister. This revelation comes after weeks of speculation following Vaughan Gething’s decision to sack his Minister for Social Partnership, Hannah Blythyn, citing the necessity of maintaining cabinet colleagues’ confidence in one another.

Shortly before announcing his resignation as Welsh Labour leader and, consequently, as First Minister, Gething released a comprehensive statement online. This included two images he asserts prove the leak came from Blythyn’s phone. “Ministers are responsible for the security of their data, and regardless of how the photograph came into the journalist’s possession, the image should not have been allowed to have been taken, leading to a breakdown of trust for ministers’ expectation of privacy for their discussions,” he wrote on Tuesday. He added that it was especially challenging for other colleagues who could not be clear that they were not responsible for the leak.

Blythyn has consistently denied leaking the message, reiterating her denial in the Senedd with a pointed statement about Gething’s conduct. On Wednesday, a vote was scheduled in the Senedd, which, if won by opposition parties, would have forced the evidence to be released under the Wales Act, marking an unprecedented use of this law section. Given Gething’s resignation, the status of this vote remains uncertain.

The decision to release the evidence was taken with the consent of all involved parties, including Swansea East MS Mike Hedges, who was named in one of the messages. Legal advice was sought, and cabinet approval was obtained on Monday evening. However, it is understood that Blythyn’s specific permission was not sought.

The evidence pertains to how iMessages display group members. In a group chat, the names or numbers of participants are shown, except for the owner of the phone, whose name or number is excluded. In the screenshot, Blythyn’s name is missing from the list, indicating it was her phone.

Gething’s Tuesday statement explained: “The first piece of evidence, detailed to the Senedd on July 10, is a photograph of a fragment of an iMessage chat from August 2020 involving 11 Welsh Labour Ministers. It was sent to the Welsh Government in May this year exactly as I am publishing it today by a journalist seeking comment on its contents. Previously published in redacted form, it is now available to members without any redaction.

“The second is a corresponding image from the same chat, located on another participant’s phone after the photograph was provided to us. The full exchange from this chat has now been submitted to the Covid Inquiry. This image demonstrates that the former Minister for Social Partnership was a member of the chat on that day.

“When an iMessage chat is viewed on an individual’s device, the initials of all other participants are visible apart from the participant themselves. Cross-referencing the subsequently-located chat membership with the photograph provided by the journalist makes it clear that the only missing initials are those of the former minister for social partnership. It is also evident that the image was captured in 2020 and retained before the leak became evident earlier this year.

“These two pieces of evidence are why I have been clear with the Senedd that it can only be an image from the former minister’s phone. I decided to ask the former minister to leave the government based on this information and the lack of a credible explanation.”

On May 7, Nation Cymru published a story containing a screenshot from a private ministerial group chat on iMessage during the pandemic. In the thread, Gething told the group: “I’m deleting the messages in this group. They can be captured in an FOI [Freedom of Information request] and I think we are all in the right place on the choice being made.”

The initial messages referenced a Labour group of Senedd members’ meeting, with a quip suggesting using an algorithm designed to help award GCSE grades to select a new member for Swansea East – a jab at Mike Hedges.

Gething has maintained that he intended to delete the message to protect a colleague and avoid embarrassment for colleagues. He denied ever deleting the message.

Initially, when the Welsh Government shared the image sent by a journalist at Nation Cymru, several details were redacted, including names. However, Hedges later revealed in the Senedd it was him that Jeremy Miles had aimed at. During a debate ahead of a no-confidence vote that Gething lost, Hedges stated: “Vaughan was protecting me. Jeremy Miles wanted to use an algorithm and remove me as a Member of the Senedd for Swansea East – that is what was removed. It has nothing to do with the Covid inquiry but was to protect individuals, including me. I don’t care. That’s what happened, and I’m prepared to fight my case. It was an attempt to defend me, which I very much respect and like.”

However, this brought into question Gething’s statement to the Covid Inquiry that he could not disclose messages because they had been lost during a phone upgrade. The Covid Inquiry is investigating whether he should be recalled for further evidence.

Opposition politicians in the Senedd have criticised Gething for refusing to release evidence backing his decision to sack Blythyn. Responding to a topical question tabled by the Conservatives, Gething stated he had “no doubt” the screenshot was taken on Blythyn’s phone.

He said: “In early May, we received a photograph of a fragment of an iMessage chat from a journalist and were asked to comment on its contents. It was from one group chat set up for one day in August 2020 with 11 Welsh Labour Ministers and deputy ministers. It is vital for the functioning of government that ministers trust each other at all times and that private discussions remain private. For these messages to be provided to a journalist is a breach of that trust. Cross-checking the photograph with the full set of messages made it clear that the photograph could only have been of one member’s phone.”

In his latest statement, as he began the process of resigning as Labour leader, Gething declared: “I am today publishing the evidence underpinning the decision to ask the former Minister for Social Partnership to leave the Welsh Government.”

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

7 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.