New programme aims to strengthen social care across Wales
Plans focus on creating a more consistent and sustainable system, with support for care workers and better joined-up services.
A new programme aimed at strengthening social care in Wales has been published by the Welsh Government.
The National Care Service Programme sets out plans to create a more consistent and sustainable system, with a focus on six key areas.
They include clearer national leadership, fair funding, support for care workers, improved digital services, early intervention and safeguarding, and better joined-up care.
The Welsh Government says the programme is the next step towards its longer-term ambition of creating a National Care Service for Wales.
It says the plans will build on its commitment to ensure people can access high-quality care and support, regardless of where they live.
The programme will be developed in partnership with people who receive care, unpaid carers, care workers, local authorities, care providers and other organisations.
Deputy Minister for Social Care Delyth Jewell said social care supports children and families, helps disabled people live independently and enables older people to remain in their own homes.
She said demand for care is continuing to grow, and the programme would help create lasting change while improving services and supporting the workforce.
The government says the programme will be delivered during this Senedd term, as part of its longer-term plans for social care reform.