Steps towards a National Care Service in Wales
20 Oct 2026 10:45 AM
The National Care Service Programme sets out how the Welsh Government will create a more consistent and sustainable care system that puts people first.
- a new programme is being published to strengthen social care
- it focuses on 6 key areas to create a more consistent and sustainable system
- this represents the next step in the Welsh approach to a National Care Service
The National Care Service Programme sets out how the Welsh Government will create a more consistent and sustainable care system that puts people first.
It builds on the Programme for Government commitment to ensure people can access high-quality, joined-up care and support wherever they live in Wales.
This represents the next step in the Welsh approach to reforming social care, while continuing to focus on what matters most to people and communities.
The programme will be delivered in partnership with:
- people who receive care and support
- unpaid carers
- the social care workforce
- local government
- care providers and partners
Their experience and expertise will help shape the future delivery of social care in Wales.
The National Care Service Programme will focus on 6 foundations:
- clear national leadership and accountability
- fair funding and reliable care
- supporting care workers to build lasting, valued careers
- better data and digital services
- early intervention and strong safeguarding
- seamless social care and support
The Deputy Minister for Social Care, Delyth Jewell, said:
Social care helps children and families through difficult times, enables disabled people to live independently, supports older people to remain in their own homes and communities, and helps unpaid carers continue their vital role.
The contribution of carers, both paid and unpaid, shapes the lives of millions of people around us. Too often social care is seen as a hidden service. I'm determined that will change.
The National Care Service Programme will develop a more consistent, sustainable and joined-up system of support in the social care sector, ensuring more people can receive timely care in the right place and at the right time. It shows how Wales is leading the way in turning ambition into action on social care reform.
As demand for care continues to grow, we need lasting change that strengthens services, supports the workforce and improves care for people. This programme sets out how we'll work together to achieve that during this Senedd term, within our longer-term vision of a National Care Service for Wales.