04 Mar 2024
Over 150 people attended Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn's annual St David's Day Conference on March 1st, with the focus this year being on Recognising Vulnerability within Offenders.
Recognising vulnerability in offenders is essential for developing a more nuanced and effective approach to criminal justice according to PCC Llywelyn. Identifying and understanding vulnerabilities allows for targeted and effective interventions and will aid in reducing the risks of reoffending and victimisation.
By addressing the underlying issues that contribute to criminal behaviour, there is a better chance of breaking the cycle of reoffending and promoting long-term positive change.
The Conference provided an insight into how a range of organisations and support services providers work to understand an offender’s vulnerabilities; how they identify situations where offenders may be at risk of victimisation within the criminal justice system; and how they support in putting appropriate safeguards in place to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.
Approximately 100 guests attended the conference in person at Police Headquarters, with a further 65 attending online.
Guest speakers included, Michelle John, of PEGS Support, Rebecca Zerk and Elize Freeman of Aberystwyth University's Centre for Age, Gender and Social Justice; Mike Wilkinson, of New Pathways, Victoria Harris of HMPPS and Gemma Humphreys of The Nelson Trust.
Speaking following the Conference, Mr Llywelyn said: "It gave me great pleasure to host my eighth annual St David's Day Conference this year, which focused on recognising offender vulnerability.
“It is important to recognise that many offenders are often victims themselves, who might have possibly experienced crimes worse than their own. Additionally, a significant number of them suffer with mental health problems.
“Understanding these underlying factors is essential as we strive to find more compassionate and effective solutions. Sending individuals to prison isn't always the better choice; instead, we must work collaboratively to develop interventions and support systems that address the root causes and contribute to rehabilitation.
"I'm extremely grateful to all the speakers for their valuable input during the day, and for all attendees, who came along to develop their knowledge in this area and share their views and ideas."
Guest speaker Michelle John, who is PEGS Support Director, and was at the Conference to discuss Child to Parent Abuse said; “It was fantastic to have been asked to speak at the Police and Crime Commissioners Conference.
"Being able to highlight the impact of child to parent abuse through the lens of vulnerability, identifying and understanding of child to parent abuse, firmly placed the focus on the families this form of abuse impacts.
"It is through events like this, we can raise awareness, promote communications, improve responses and encourage change.
"It was a pleasure to hear from all the other speakers and a huge congratulations for all involved in creating and delivering such a powerful and thought provoking event".
ENDS
Further information:
OPCC.Communication@dyfed-powys.police.uk
PCC Dafydd Llywelyn with guest speakers from Aberystwyth University
