Llais calls for action as new report reveals inconsistent access to Welsh language health and social care services is affecting people’s dignity, wellbeing and treatment

While 27% of the population (828,000 people) can speak Welsh, StatsWales data from 2024 shows that only 12.6% of GPs report higher or proficient Welsh language skills. In some health boards, this figure is as low as 5%. This leaves a big gap between what people need and what services can provide. 

Members of the public told Llais that speaking Welsh helped them feel involved, valued and respected. However, when services do not offer the use of Welsh, people often feel dismissed or unimportant. 

The report highlights that the ability to use Welsh in health and social care is not simply a matter of preference. In some situations - particularly in mental health services, dementia care, end-of-life care and conversations about treatment options - language can directly affect people's understanding, wellbeing and experience of care. 

Among the experiences shared with Llais were accounts of children being unable to complete eye tests accurately because Welsh materials were unavailable, people struggling to discuss their feelings in English, and families describing the comfort Welsh brought to loved ones during the final stages of life. 

Professor Medwin Hughes, Llais Chair said: 

“Being able to use Welsh in health and social care is about much more than language; it is about feeling understood, respected and safe when accessing services. 

“We heard some powerful stories from people about the positive difference that Welsh language provision can make, but we also heard from people who felt they had to fight to access services in Welsh, or who felt overlooked when their communication needs were not recognised. 

“At some of the most vulnerable moments in people’s lives, whether that's during a mental health crisis, living with dementia, receiving difficult news or approaching the end of life, being able to speak in your preferred language can make a profound difference. 

“We want to see practical action that makes the active offer the norm, so that people do not have to ask for services in Welsh, and can be confident that their language needs will be recognised and met.” 

The report sets out five calls for NHS organisations and local authorities to act on, based on practical ideas shared by members of the public: 

• More widely implement the active offer across health and social care services in Wales. 
• Strengthen collaboration with the Welsh Language Commissioner and Welsh language organisations to meet duties and improve bilingual access. 
• Improve awareness of the cultural significance of Welsh among staff. 
• Ensure all staff know which colleagues can provide services in Welsh and signpost appropriately. 
• Improve access to translators when Welsh-speaking staff are not available, particularly for important, sensitive and high-risk situations. 

Llais is also committing to continue listening to people’s experiences, share examples of good practice, work with partners including the Mwy na Geiriau team, and recruit more Welsh-speaking volunteers to strengthen its representation and amplify Welsh voices. 

The report will be discussed during a joint panel event hosted by Llais and Mwy na Geiriau at the National Eisteddfod, titled From policy to practice: Making the Active Offer a reality in health and social care.