Consultation invites unpaid carers across the country to shape new national strategy

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has unveiled plans to make Wales a “Carer Aware” nation, with a new public consultation launched today (Monday, Feb 2) aimed at improving recognition and support for the country’s thousands of unpaid carers.

Ministers say the move is designed to ensure people who look after relatives, friends or neighbours are identified earlier and treated as partners in decisions about the care of their loved ones.

A draft National Strategy for Unpaid Carers has been developed with input from hundreds of carers and representative groups across Wales. It sets out eight key priorities, including better recognition of carers’ roles, improved access to respite and short breaks, stronger wellbeing support, and measures to prevent young carers from carrying too much responsibility.

Under the proposals, carers of all ages and backgrounds — including disabled carers and those in minority communities — would be able to access clear, local information and help when they need it.

Officials say earlier identification is critical, so carers can receive advice, financial guidance and emotional support from the start of their caring journey, rather than only at crisis point.

The strategy also stresses the need for sufficient alternative care arrangements to allow carers time to rest and protect their own health.

Dawn Bowden, Minister for Children and Social Care, said many carers do not even see themselves as carers.

“Too often, unpaid carers go unrecognised – even by themselves. They’re simply ‘looking after mum’ or ‘helping out a friend’, but caring can have a profound impact on people’s finances, careers, health and wellbeing,” she said.

“We want Wales to be a place where carers are identified early, where they know their rights, and where they’re treated as partners for the person they care for.

“This consultation is important in shaping a strategy which takes into full account how carers feel and how they’re supported. I’d encourage everyone with an interest to provide their views.”

The consultation is open now and runs until April 13, with responses helping to shape the final strategy and future support services across Wales.

People can take part online via the Welsh Government website.

Landmark legislation gives public sector greater control as rollout set to begin in southwest Wales in 2027

LOCAL bus services across Wales are set for their biggest overhaul in decades after new legislation formally became law this week.

The Bus Services (Wales) Bill received Royal Assent on Monday (Feb 2), with the Welsh Government saying the changes will transform how routes are planned and delivered, putting passengers and communities ahead of profit-led timetables.

The legislation was sealed at a ceremony in Cardiff by First Minister Eluned Morgan, marking what ministers describe as a “historic day” for public transport.

The law gives the public sector a stronger role in shaping bus networks, allowing services to be designed around local needs in both rural and urban areas. Instead of relying solely on commercial operators deciding routes, councils and regional bodies will be able to coordinate and plan services more directly.

The Transport for Wales will work alongside local authorities, Corporate Joint Committees, bus companies, unions and residents to redesign networks using local knowledge.

Buses remain a vital link for many communities, particularly in rural parts of west Wales where alternatives are limited. They connect people to jobs, schools, hospitals and town centres.

Eluned Morgan said: “This is a historic day for public transport in Wales – it sends out a clear message that we are committed to improving the bus system and delivering better, more reliable services for the people of Wales.

“Buses are lifelines for many communities across Wales connecting people to jobs, health services, education and friends, and I’m excited to see the improvements that are coming.”

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said the changes marked “the beginning of a new era”.

He added: “These changes won’t be seen overnight, it’s going to take time, but we are working closely with the industry and local authorities to plan and deliver bus services to meet the needs of passengers today and for generations to come.”

The rollout will be phased, starting in southwest Wales in 2027, followed by north Wales in 2028, southeast Wales in 2029 and mid Wales in 2030.

Ministers say the aim is to deliver more reliable timetables, better coverage and services that reflect what communities actually need – rather than what is most commercially viable.

Pembrokeshire residents are being urged to prepare for possible flooding along the coastline between St Dogmaels, Cardigan and Amroth, after Natural Resources Wales issued a Flood Alert.

The alert warns that rising water levels could pose a risk to homes, vehicles and livestock, and advises people to take precautions now. Authorities are reminding residents to follow their flood plans, check on family, friends and pets, and ensure essential items and documents are protected.

Residents are also advised to keep mobile phones charged, know how to turn off electricity, gas and water supplies, and prepare a small emergency bag with items such as medication, warm clothing, baby and pet care essentials, and insurance documents. Vehicles, livestock and equipment should be moved from areas likely to flood if possible.

Safety warnings are clear: do not drive or walk through floodwater. Just 30 cm (1 foot) of water can carry a car away, and 15 cm can knock a person off their feet.

For more information, residents can visit Natural Resources Wales – Flood Warnings, check river and sea levels online, or contact Floodline on 0345 988 1188 (quick dial 503013). Updates are also available via @NatResWales on social media.