Support for victims of domestic abuse in focus during visit to DASU

News and Info from Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales

North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Andy Dunbobbin has visited DASU (Domestic Abuse Safety Unit) to see first-hand the services available for victims of domestic abuse across the region.

In 2024, around 2.3 million people in the UK experienced domestic abuse, including 1.6 million women (8.5% of the population) and 760,000 men, according to the Office for National Statistics. On average, victims attempt to leave seven times before escaping abuse for good.

DASU, which receives funding from the PCC’s office, provides professional, coordinated support to domestic abuse victims across North Wales, with 50 refuge spaces available as part of the 86 spaces region-wide.

Over the past year, the organisation has received 575 referrals for its services, with complex needs units in Conwy, Denbighshire, and Flintshire always at full capacity.

Due to the confidential nature of DASU’s work, the location of the visit has not been disclosed.

During the visit last week, Mr Dunbobbin was joined by Criminal Justice Manager Rhian Rees-Roberts, where they met with DASU CEO Gaynor McKeown and DASU Head of Refuges Rachel Roberts.

The group discussed the £2.6 million in capital grants from the PCC’s office and Welsh Government, which has funded refuge units, refurbishment projects, office facilities, and security measures.

Mr Dunbobbin also visited a short-term refuge building, which provides temporary emergency accommodation for up to 72 hours. These units, the only of their kind in the UK, are designed for victims who:

Cannot access long-term refuge immediately due to availability issues.
Have pets or older male children, who are often not accepted in communal refuges.
Need weekend or late-night emergency placements when other providers do not accept referrals.

Many refuges do not accept male children over the age of 12, forcing some victims to return home or leave their child with the perpetrator.

DASU ensures access for these individuals, as well as those with pets, caring responsibilities, mental health needs, or past convictions.

PCC and DASU Leaders Speak Out

Following the visit, Andy Dunbobbin praised the work of DASU, saying: “I was impressed to see the facilities that DASU has in place to support and assist victims of domestic violence.

“Supporting victims is a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan for North Wales, and within this, ending violence against women and girls is crucial. Bringing perpetrators to justice and ensuring that victims feel justice has been done is equally important.

“I am pleased to hear how many spaces are available across the region to help victims start a new life away from abuse. DASU should be proud of what they have built, and I hope those in vulnerable situations find strength, reassurance, and hope in their new accommodation.”

Gaynor McKeown, CEO of DASU, addressed recent concerns over refuge availability, stating:

“I was concerned to read reports about a lack of refuge space for victims in North Wales and wanted to clarify the extensive support that exists. I invited the PCC to see our accommodation and highlight the 80+ spaces available across the region.

“We also provide dedicated refuge spaces for victims with complex and multiple needs, made possible by funding from the PCC and Welsh Government.

“I am immensely proud of our strong relationship with North Wales Police, and if any other political figure wishes to see what we offer, I’d be delighted to show them.”

DASU: Over 30 Years of Support

DASU has provided free, high-quality, specialised services for over 30 years, supporting women, men, and children who have experienced domestic abuse.

Their services include: