No one left behind: Llais calls for action on rural health and care in Wales 

Llais has recently published a spotlight on rural health and social care, based on what we’ve heard through our engagement with people in rural areas of Wales. 

The message for health and social services : rural communities feel overlooked, and change is too slow.  

Despite national plans and commitments, people in rural areas say they are still facing barriers that make it harder to get care. These challenges are not new, but they are becoming more urgent.  

This must not be accepted as “just how things are.”  

What people are telling us  

People across rural Wales have shared their experiences, highlighting serious gaps in care. These include:  

• Access to care
• Transport barriers
• Mental health support
• Workforce shortages
• Emergency care delays  

Despite these challenges, people spoke about the resilience of their communities and the value of care once they can access it. They want services that are easier to reach, more consistent, and better aligned with rural realities.  

Alyson Thomas, CEO of Llais, said:  

“The voices we’ve heard show that rural communities are resourceful, but they are being asked to do too much to fill gaps in formal services. People want care that reflects the realities of rural life, not one-size-fits-all models. Welsh Government and NHS Wales must act now to turn plans into practical solutions that work for rural communities.”  

To read the report in full, click here: Spotlight on rural health and social care in Wales | Llais