Dyfed-Powys Police and Paladin Win Wales Safer Communities Award

Dyfed-Powys Police with Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service, have been awarded the Violence Against Women, Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence category at the Wales Safer Communities Awards 2025 on 27 November at Aberystwyth University.

Dyfed-Powys Police was recognised for leading this pioneering pilot programme delivering specialist support for stalking victims across the force area – the only service of its kind currently operating in Wales.

The force has worked closely with Paladin to recruit Independent Stalking Caseworker Advocates (ISACs) to provide dedicated support to victims, including full risk assessments, safety planning, advocacy for Stalking Protection Orders, and support through legal proceedings.

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams from Dyfed-Powys Police said:

"We are incredibly proud of this recognition. Our collaborative approach has significantly improved our response to stalking crimes and ensured victims receive specialist support throughout their journey through the criminal justice system. The Stalking Intervention Panels have been instrumental in improving professional knowledge and delivering better outcomes for victims.”

Since its launch, the service has received 54 referrals from across the Dyfed-Powys area.

DCI Williams added:

"The force's commitment to tackling stalking has been strengthened through this partnership. Our officers now have access to specialist training and support, which has directly led to increased referrals and enhanced knowledge across the force."

Dyfed-Powys Police has also championed the development of 'Stalking Champions'; officers who have received specialised training from Paladin and support front-line officers with reports of stalking crimes. This has led to increased awareness and significantly improved responses to stalking offences across the force.

Feedback from service users has been overwhelmingly positive, with one victim stating:

"I wouldn't have got through what I did if I didn't have my ISAC. For my ISAC to be able to support me with everything, speaking with the police, housing, courts I can't thank her enough.

The Wales Safer Communities Awards recognise outstanding contributions to community safety across Wales in a multi-agency context.