The Welsh Government has today announced over £2m of additional
funding to provide victims of violence against women, domestic
abuse and sexual violence with support and advice.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice made the announcement
while formally opening Rothbury House in Newport. The New
Pathways support centre, which provides counselling services for
survivors of sexual violence, was established with Welsh
Government support to redevelop a former nursing home into a
support centre, with additional funding in March providing new
security measures to ensure clients feel safe and secure.
The funding represents a substantial uplift, including £1.28m of
additional funding to provide victims with support and advice
across Wales, and £900,000 to improve buildings and facilities,
enhance security and provide essential equipment for
organisations supporting survivors.
The announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the
Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence
(VAWDASV) Act 2015, which became law on 29 April 2015.
Deputy Chief Executive of New Pathways, Mike Wilkinson, said:
“Rothbury House will be offering a wide range of support services
for people who have experienced sexual violence (rape, sexual
assault and sexual abuse) including support from Independent
Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), wellbeing support and
specialist sexual violence counselling. We have staff who
specialise in supporting children and young people, and we also
offer professional training services and our own Counselling
College.”
During the visit, the Cabinet Secretary toured Rothbury House and
met with staff to see how the improved facilities have enhanced
support services for survivors.
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: "Partnerships like this
one with New Pathways, where we work closely with specialist
organisations, are vital to our comprehensive approach to
tackling violence against women and girls. This additional
investment strengthens vital services for victims and survivors
across Wales, providing safe spaces where they can begin their
recovery journey.
“There is no place for harassment, abuse or violence in our
society. Ten years on from our landmark VAWDASV Act, we remain
committed to eliminate violence against women, making Wales the
safest place to be a woman or a girl. We continue to work in
partnership with dedicated specialist organisations, the police
and the broader Welsh public sector to prevent abuse, tackle
perpetration and support those affected.”
Notes to editors
New Pathways received £241,095 from the Welsh Government in
2019-20 to help redevelop Rothbury House, and £19,320 in March
2025 to provide new fencing and a security system.
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