Building Cohesive and Inclusive Communities Across Wales
Last week, organisations and communities across Wales came together to mark Safer Communities Awareness Week 2025. The theme, “Working Together for Cohesive and Inclusive Communities”, inspired a week of thought-provoking events, collaborative learning, and shared best practice aimed at strengthening safety and inclusion in every corner of Wales.
A Week of Learning and Dialogue
The week featured a series of Lunch & Learn webinars, each tackling a different aspect of community safety:
- Monday: Dr Andrew G. Thomas explored the rise of incel ideology and the manosphere, unpacking the psychological and social dynamics behind these online communities and their impact on cohesion.
- Tuesday: Peter Greenslade led a session on rural fire management, highlighting how inclusive dialogue and partnership working can transform public perceptions and reduce tensions in rural areas.
- Thursday: Emma Winston, Leanne Davies, and Annalise Hughes discussed the vital role of probation services in supporting prison leavers, showcasing how partnership and inclusive practice can reduce reoffending and support rehabilitation.
- Friday: Detective Inspector Richard Weber addressed the threat of County Lines, offering insights into how exploitation impacts vulnerable individuals and divides communities, and how multi-agency responses can foster resilience.
Recordings of most sessions are available, offering continued access to the insights shared.
The campaign was also supported by a bilingual partner toolkit, which included suggested social media messages, graphics, and hashtags. The toolkit emphasised that inclusion is not just a value but a strategic foundation for safer communities. It highlighted how collaboration across sectors and with residents can reduce isolation, prevent conflict, and create spaces where everyone can thrive.
Looking Ahead: Safer Communities Awards 2025
As the week concluded, attention turned to the upcoming Safer Communities Awards, set to take place on 27 November at Aberystwyth University. The awards will celebrate outstanding contributions to community safety across Wales, with categories including Anti-Social Behaviour, VAWDASV, and Modern Slavery and Exploitation. Entries for nominations close on Friday 3 October.
