The Welsh Government’s newly launched Women’s Health Plan for Wales represents a transformative opportunity to address systemic inequalities in healthcare. At Llamau, we are especially encouraged by the plan's focus on tackling violence against women and girls (VAWG), an issue central to our work with survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Among its priorities, the plan commits NHS Wales to signing a ‘sexual safety in healthcare organisations’ charter, exploring the introduction of VAWDASV champions (Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse, and Sexual Violence) in each health board, and delivering enhanced education on these issues for all healthcare workers.

This is an important step forward, and we are encouraged to see the recognition of the need for VAWDASV champions.

However, it is worth noting that similar initiatives, such as the IRIS (Identification and Referral to Improve Safety) programme, have already demonstrated success in primary care settings by equipping GPs and other healthcare professionals to identify and respond to domestic abuse. Primary care offers a critical opportunity for early intervention and prevention, connecting survivors to specialist support services at a much earlier stage. It is vital that these principles remain central to the implementation of VAWDASV champions to maximise their impact.

The introduction of VAWDASV champions has the potential to be a game-changer. These dedicated roles could ensure that every health board prioritises the needs of survivors, embedding expertise and accountability across the system. Meanwhile, comprehensive training for all healthcare workers will help create a culture where survivors are believed, supported, and directed to appropriate services.

At Llamau, we see first-hand the lasting physical and emotional impacts of abuse. Survivors often carry these burdens into healthcare settings, where re-traumatisation or missed opportunities for intervention can compound their experiences.

The commitments outlined in the Women’s Health Plan offer hope that survivors will encounter a more responsive and supportive system—one that prioritises their safety and dignity at every level.

The ‘sexual safety in healthcare organisations’ charter is another vital component. By committing to this charter, NHS Wales signals a zero-tolerance approach to abuse within healthcare environments, ensuring that these spaces remain safe for all patients and staff.

While this progress is promising, it is only the beginning. Implementing these measures will require robust resourcing, clear accountability, and ongoing collaboration with specialist organisations like Llamau, who bring decades of experience supporting survivors.

We applaud the Welsh Government for taking this bold step and look forward to working alongside them to ensure that these commitments translate into meaningful change. Together, we can create a future where healthcare not only heals but empowers survivors to rebuild their lives.