Written question WQ96977
- Asked by
- Siân GwenllianPlaid
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 13 days
Question
Is the Welsh Government able to show that there is sufficient independent oversight of safeguarding arrangements in religious establishments in Wales, in light of the recent statement by the Children's Commissioner for Wales that there is a complete lack of independent oversight of safeguarding arrangements in religious establishments?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
We have set out clear expectations for all organisations, including those operating in faith-based settings, through the “Working Together to Safeguard People: Code of Safeguarding Practice” This Code outlines:
- Core safeguarding principles
- Standards for safe recruitment, training, and reporting
- Guidance on creating safe and supportive environments for children and adults at risk
Faith organisations are expected to adhere to this Code as part of their safeguarding responsibilities.
Section 5 of the Wales Safeguarding Procedures provides specific guidance on managing allegations or concerns about individuals in positions of trust, including faith leaders and religious workers. These procedures apply to anyone working with children or adults at risk, whether paid or voluntary.
While these frameworks establish clear and consistent expectations, there is no single statutory body in Wales currently responsible for independent oversight of safeguarding arrangements in religious establishments.
We are actively engaging with faith organisations in response to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) recommendations. We are considering all available options to strengthen safeguarding oversight.
We have developed a ten-year National Strategy for Preventing and Responding to Child Sexual Abuse in response to feedback from stakeholders. The public consultation is due to conclude on 8th October 2025.