On the 3rd of October 2024, we came together to celebrate a shared commitment to protecting children and young people in Wales. The event, generously sponsored by the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS, was a gathering of influential speakers, community partners, and most importantly a remarkable group of school children whose energy and enthusiasm became the highlight of the occasion.
The celebration centered on a cause close to our hearts: preventing domestic abuse and creating a safe, nurturing environment for the next generation. This critical mission was brought to life through speeches, presentations, and breakout activities, culminating in a sense of unity and shared responsibility.
Distinguished Speakers Illuminate the Day
The event was graced by a series of powerful addresses from distinguished speakers, each of whom has played a pivotal role in championing the safety and well-being of children and in eradicating Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence (VAWDASV) in Wales.
Lynne Neagle MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education in Wales, opened the day with the Welsh Government’s commitment in supporting learners to recognise healthy and safe relationships through the Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) curriculum. She further says that ‘Spectrum is vital in achieving these goals.’
She was then followed by Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, who highlighted the importance of teaching how relationships should be in schools, and how things can be learned from Wales.
Johanna Robinson, VAWDASV National Adviser for Wales, then spoke about the impact of VAWDASV to children and young people in Wales.
During the afternoon, we were fortunate to hear from Ruth Taylor, Journalist and Stori Patron, who shared the impact of coercive controlling behaviour on her and her children; and our final speaker was Professor EJ Renold, who delivered a compelling presentation on the importance of listening to the voices of children and young people.
The Children were the Highlight of the Event
However, the true highlight of the day came when a class of children took to the stage. Their performance was a moving tribute to the importance of understanding healthy relationships, resilience, and safety.
They shared a poem depicting the impact of the Spectrum Project in their lives. Their presentation embodied the very essence of the day’s message: that prevention and education must start early, with educating young people and empowering them to speak out against violence and promote healthy relationships.
Cwmrhydyceirw Primary School’s Deputy Head Teacher says, ‘I can see the impact Stori has had on our pupils. The lessons have been thoughtful, engaging and fun whilst also and most importantly, sharing the serious element on safe relationships. It has also given our class teachers the opportunity to listen and observe our pupils during these activities and address misconceptions they may have had about safe relationships afterwards.’
We extend our deepest thanks to the speakers, children, and partners who made this day a true celebration of hope and possibility. Together, we are forging a safer, more supportive Wales for our children and young people—one where domestic abuse is no longer tolerated, and every child can thrive.
For more information on The Spectrum Project, please visit – www.spectrumproject.co.uk