Llais responds to Welsh Government intervention at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board

Welsh Government’s Cabinet Minister for Health and Care has announced directed intervention measures at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB). 

The measures are intended to “to stabilise services, strengthen leadership and accountability, and drive lasting improvement” for more than 700,000 people in north Wales. 

The Health Board has been in a heightened state of escalation for 11 years, including more than three years at the most serious level. 

People across north Wales have consistently shared concerning experiences of healthcare services under BCUHB with Llais. These include long waits for assessment and treatment, difficulties accessing services, care that has fallen below expected standards, and failings in clinical care. We will continue to listen to people, gather and share their experiences, to help shape service improvements and provide a clear picture of whether changes are leading to better care and outcomes. 

Geoff Ryall-Harvey, Llais’s Regional Director for North Wales said:  

“Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is facing significant and long-standing challenges, and we welcome the Cabinet Secretary's commitment to strengthening oversight, accountability and support for improvement. 

“People across north Wales have been waiting a long time to see meaningful change. For many, concerns about access to services, waiting times and the quality of care they receive are not new issues. People will expect that today's announcement now leads to improvements that they can see and feel in their day-to-day experiences of healthcare.  

“Behind every poor experience of care is a person whose wellbeing is affected. The people of north Wales deserve services that are safe, timely and meet their needs. 

“It is vital that this process is transparent and involves people, families and frontline staff from the start. People need to be able to see what is changing, understand whether progress is being made, and have confidence that improvements will be sustained. 

"Llais will keep listening to and sharing people’s experiences throughout this process to make sure their voices shape improvement. We encourage everyone to take part and have their say."