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Aberystwyth will take centre stage this week as the Wales Safer Communities Network brings the third annual Safer Communities Awards to Aberystwyth University.
The awards celebrate the work of projects, partnerships and people actively making communities safer across Wales. On Thursday 27 November community safety professionals and local leaders will gather in the heart of Ceredigion to honour the projects, partnerships, and people making a real difference in keeping our communities safe.
The awards will be hosted by TV presenter John-Paul Davies. Before his career in journalism John-Paul spent four years in the Police becoming the first Police Officer in twenty years from South Wales to gain a place on the Home Office Accelerated Scheme for Graduates.
The ceremony will shine a spotlight on outstanding achievements in areas such as tackling anti-social behaviour, supporting victims of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence, and combating modern slavery and exploitation. This year the expanded awards categories will champion the work of the teams and partnerships who deliver this work as well as honouring individual contributions.
The 2024 overall winner, Swansea City Chill, created diversionary opportunities, intergenerational opportunities and connected people across the city, and reduced reports of antisocial behaviour by nearly 40%. It was a partnership involving council and policing teams, the youth justice service, education and third sector organisations.
The Safer Communities Awards are not just about recognising success—they’re about inspiring others to get involved and make a difference. As Aberystwyth welcomes this year’s finalists, the event promises to highlight the power of collaboration and community spirit in building a safer Wales for all.
Mark Brace, Head of the Wales Safer Communities Network said:
“The Safer Communities Awards tell positive news stories that often don’t get the recognition they deserve, and we want to champion the work that goes on across Wales. We’re bringing colleagues together to celebrate the innovative thinking that makes change happen.
“This year’s award winners showcase the variety of great work taking place to keep communities in Wales safe. We’re honouring the work of individuals, teams, and partnerships across the public, private and voluntary sectors who strive daily for safer communities.”
