**Welsh Politician Takes Charge in Fight Against Violence Against Women and Girls**
A Welsh MP has stepped into a vital national role, overseeing new protections designed to safeguard women and girls from abuse. Alexandra Davies-Jones, Member of Parliament for Pontypridd, is now leading efforts to combat an ongoing crisis of violence against women in the UK. Her remit comes at a pivotal moment, as statistics and recent high-profile cases point to an epidemic gripping communities across Wales and beyond.
From today, women and girls across north Wales will have access to strengthened legal protection through the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs). These new orders accompany an expansion of existing police powers, surpassing the former Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs), which had been widely criticised for their limited scope and time-frames. DAPOs are designed to address all forms of domestic abuse – including physical, coercive or controlling behaviour, economic abuse and stalking – offering sustained measures to keep victims safe.
A key feature of DAPOs lies in their accessibility. Victims themselves can apply, but so too can family members, friends, or professional support workers. For those unable to attend court in person, police officers can make applications on their behalf, ensuring no one is denied protection for want of means or courage. Orders can be made by both family and magistrates’ courts, with local cases processed at Caernarfon, Prestatyn and Wrexham.
Importantly, DAPOs break new ground by imposing exclusion zones backed by GPS monitoring. Perpetrators may also be compelled to undertake rehabilitation and behaviour modification programmes, including support for mental health, drug or alcohol issues. Unlike previous legislation, there is no upper limit on how long these orders can be in place, closing a much-criticised loophole and ensuring safety over the long term.
This move follows pilot schemes in Greater Manchester, three London boroughs, and Cleveland, demonstrating considerable success since the pilots began last November. Over 100 DAPOs have already been issued in Greater Manchester alone, with breaches rigorously enforced and resulting in custodial sentences. The expansion into north Wales marks a significant milestone in extending these protections more widely.
Davies-Jones explained, “DAPOs are already saving lives. What is special and unique about these orders is their broad accessibility – if a victim doesn’t feel able to step forward, someone else can act in their place.” She acknowledged that existing measures had not provided sufficient protection, prompting a comprehensive reassessment involving courts, police, local authorities and victims themselves.
The Minister’s openness about the failings and limitations of older protections is notable. She has insisted on a “holistic approach”, with cross-departmental collaboration stretching from law enforcement to education and healthcare. The strategy involves not just responding to incidents but also addressing societal attitudes and holding men and boys accountable for their behaviour. “We recognise this is a national emergency,” Davies-Jones told WalesOnline, underlining the government’s commitment to halving violence against women and girls within a decade.
Recent UK headlines have featured distressing cases, including murders of young girls and women, reinforcing the urgency for new solutions. In Wales, cases like the killing of Victoria Thomas in Cardiff have shocked communities and highlighted gaps in protection. Davies-Jones stressed the need to tackle root causes, saying, “It’s not just for the victims to protect themselves. We all have a role to play.”
Questions were raised about the effectiveness of restraining orders, citing the experience of a local victim whose abuser repeatedly breached restrictions. The Minister acknowledged these concerns: “Sadly, it is not unique… Some previous orders aren’t working as we’d hope, which is why we’re learning from pilot areas and taking time to get DAPOs right.” She vowed to ensure that breaches of protection will continue to be taken seriously, resulting in real consequences for offenders.
While the rollout to the rest of Wales is still being planned, Davies-Jones is hopeful that careful, staged implementation will yield positive results and avoid repeating past legislative mistakes. Her aim is clear: “I want everywhere covered, but we must do it safely and make sure they’re effective.”
Those affected by domestic abuse are reminded that support is available. The Live Fear Free Helpline offers round-the-clock, confidential advice and assistance. Various charities and organisations, such as Lifecentre, The Survivors Trust, and Rape Crisis England & Wales, also provide essential support for survivors.
Davies-Jones’ new responsibilities represent a renewed commitment to tackling a UK-wide emergency. While the challenges ahead are significant, the expansion of DAPOs across north Wales signals hope – and a promise of greater safety – for women and girls facing abuse.