Welsh Government extends Professor Medwin Hughes’ term as Chair of Llais for a further four years
Welsh Government extends Professor Medwin Hughes’ term as Chair of Llais for a further four years, continuing his leadership of Wales’ independent statutory body representing the voices of people who use health and social care services.
Professor Hughes, appointed as the first Chair of Llais in 2023, brings decades of experience in Welsh public life, higher education, cultural leadership, and governance.
Over the past three years, Llais has strengthened its role as the national voice for people using health and social care in Wales, increasingly shaping national conversations about the future of services.
Among its achievements is the landmark Health and Social Care We Want project, which included a nationwide engagement programme involving thousands of people and resulted in the publication of The People’s Principles; a set of eight principles based directly on people’s real experiences of health and social care.
These principles now guide Llais’ discussions with decision‑makers and continue to shape the expectations we set for services on behalf of people across Wales, reinforcing the clear message shared by people across Wales: “Treat us like people, not numbers.”
Professor Hughes said:
“I am pleased to continue as Chair of Llais, overseeing our work as we move into the next phase of delivering meaningful change for the people of Wales.
Llais has a key role in ensuring that people’s voices continue to drive the changes Wales needs, and I am looking forward to playing my part in making this happen.
The People’s Principles are a powerful reminder that health and social care must be rooted in partnership with the people it serves. These voices speak of a system that needs to be more joined‑up, more transparent, and more compassionate.”
Looking ahead
The extension of Professor Hughes’ tenure as Chair will provide continuity as Llais continues its commitment to strengthening citizen voice, championing people’s rights, and influencing meaningful improvements across Wales’ health and social care system.
His leadership will guide the organisation through its next phase of influence, and impact, rooted firmly in the lived experiences and needs of the people of Wales.