Wales has become the first nation in the UK to launch a ten-year strategy dedicated to preventing and responding to child sexual abuse.
The Welsh Government today published its Strategy for Preventing and Responding to Child Sexual Abuse 2026-2036, alongside a three-year delivery plan outlining the immediate steps to be taken.
The scale of the problem
An estimated 25,000 children and young people are sexually abused every year in Wales. The effects can be far-reaching and long-lasting, impacting health, confidence, relationships, education and future opportunities – not just for the child, but for families and entire communities.
What the strategy covers
The plan takes a whole-system approach built around four core objectives: preventing abuse before it happens through education and awareness; ensuring professionals act swiftly and together when concerns arise; providing timely therapy and support for children and their families; and delivering ongoing help for adults who were abused as children.
The strategy acknowledges that abuse takes place across many settings – online and offline, within families, institutions, peer groups and communities – and calls for clearer roles, shared understanding and better information sharing between organisations.
How it was developed
The strategy was co-produced with adult victim-survivors, the NSPCC, the Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Abuse, Barnardo’s and the Lucy Faithfull Foundation. Advisory groups for both children and adult survivors will continue to shape delivery throughout the strategy’s lifespan.
What the Minister said
Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden said: “Child sexual abuse is abhorrent. Its impact can be life-altering, affecting a person long into adulthood.
“This strategy represents our unwavering commitment to tackling this issue head-on and a whole‑system approach where everyone works together towards the same goal is central to achieving our objectives.
“I am deeply grateful to the victim-survivors with lived experience who have courageously helped shape this work as well as organisations who provide vital support. These voices will continue to guide us as we deliver on our ambitions.”
She added: “Our vision is clear – to prevent abuse, protect children, and support all those affected. Through close partnership working we can build a safer Wales for every child.”
The delivery plan sets out specific actions for the next three years, including national awareness campaigns, improved professional training and strengthened support services.
