A Rhyl-based service which provides early intervention and support to vulnerable women to reduce the number in the criminal justice system, while helping them live safer, healthier lives, has been commended in Parliament today for the “important work” it carries out.
Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies highlighted the valuable support the North Wales Women’s Centre provides to women in the region during a question on the Female Offender Strategy in the House of Commons, prompting praise for the service from the Minister of State at the Ministry of Justice, Victoria Atkins MP.
Questioning the Minister, James said:
“What plans are there to take heed of the National Audit Office’s recent comments on the delivery of the Female Offender Strategy? Can I highlight community solutions such as the North Wales Women’s Centre in my constituency, which provides support to help tackle the root causes of crime, such as domestic abuse and poverty?”
The Minister of State replied:
“I am extremely grateful to my hon. Friend for highlighting the vulnerabilities of some female offenders. We are very much committed to delivering the Female Offender Strategy by reducing the number of women in custody and seeing a greater proportion of women managed in the community.
“We are investing £9.5 million in women’s community sector organisations, and the North Wales Women’s Centre received nearly £50,000 of that investment last year. I commend him and the women’s centre for doing such important work in his constituency.”
James added:
“The Minister of State was right to praise this fantastic facility which plays an instrumental role in diverting women out of the criminal justice system whenever possible.
“They have an excellent record of supporting women who are in difficult situations and although the pandemic has been challenging for them, I am very pleased that they are back on track in providing their excellent service and thank all those involved.”
