July 16, 2025 - 661 views
The Welsh Government has introduced a 10-year strategy to prevent and address child sexual abuse, the first of its kind in the UK.
The strategy focuses on prevention, protection, and support and acknowledges the evolving nature of abuse, especially online.
Co-produced with various organisations and adult survivors, the strategy aims to prevent abuse, protect children, support recovery, and aid adult victims.
Research shows approximately 25,000 children in Wales experience some form of sexual abuse each year, yet only a fraction come to the attention of police or social services.
It is built around 4 strategic outcomes:
Prevent child sexual abuse
Protect children affected by abuse
Support children and families to recover
Support adult victim-survivors to recover
This strategy will also be key in further delivery on recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) and builds upon work already undertaken under the previous national action plan.
It also contributes to the implementation of findings from Baroness Casey’s report on group based exploitation.
Dawn Bowden, Minister for Children and Social Care, said: "We must do all we can to tackle the heinous crime of child sexual abuse. By developing the UK's first 10 year strategy in this area, we are demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting children and supporting survivors throughout their lives.
"The voices of people who have been affected by sexual abuse are central to this strategy and how it is delivered.
"I encourage individuals, organisations, and communities across Wales to share their views and help shape this vital work."
Consultation on the strategy will continue until October 8, 2025.
