Senedd committee report on gender-based violence highlights BPS evidence

The society submitted a written response to the Equality and Social Justice Committee highlighting a number of issues and concerns.

Echoing the BPS's position, the report recommends that the Welsh government adopts a whole-government approach and works with partners across public services, the private and third sectors to promote gender equality and inclusivity in Wales.

The committee also calls for a national review to investigate whether there are enough funds and training for teaching about healthy relationships in schools, something the BPS expressly mentioned.

The committee report quotes the society's evidence saying, 'Children spend a significant amount of time in schools so what they experience in the classroom, on the playground, and with their peers, will impact on their views and behaviours towards others.

'Schools are in a unique position to positively shape children's views through an awareness about safe, equal and healthy relationships and translating these into practice.'

The report also refers to the BPS's evidence on the extreme views expressed by social media influencers saying, 'witnesses discussed online safety and social media, including concerns about "extreme misogyny" which is often disseminated and can influence the attitudes and behaviours of young people'.

The committee recommends that the Welsh government should consider funding a nationwide public awareness campaign with a top male, sporting role model who can inspire other men and boys to take a stand against violence and promote positive values and behaviours.

Dr Cerys Miles, Chair of the Division of Forensic Psychology in Wales, which contributed to the written evidence, said:

"We welcome the report and are pleased that the committee used the BPS evidence and recommendations to support some of the actions it is proposing.

"Gender-based violence is widespread in our society and so can only be tackled through greater partnership working and wider collaboration.

"The committee rightly recognises the huge strides that the Welsh government has already taken to protect women and girls against violence. Wales is trailblazing in this area in the UK. However, we'd like to see more resources dedicated to intervention and prevention given the enormity of the problem and the impact it has on victims and society at large.

"Psychologists have a key role to play in tackling violence against women, working with women and children impacted by abuse and supporting other professions to undertake work in a trauma-informed way."

Read the committee's report - How we must all play our part: A public health approach to halting the epidemic in gender-based violence 

Read the BPS's full consultation response