Staff shortages, cyber threats and rising demand highlight urgent need for action

CARE providers in Pembrokeshire are being urged to strengthen their risk management practices as they face increasing operational and financial pressures.

Ansvar Insurance, a leading specialist in the care sector, has warned that without proactive steps, services across the county could struggle to cope with a combination of rising demand, regulatory complexity and evolving risks.

The call comes as new data from the Welsh Government reveals that 2,226 adults in Pembrokeshire were receiving care and support at the end of March 2024 — a 3.5% rise compared to the same time the previous year.

Meanwhile, the sector continues to grapple with a shortage of staff. Although vacancy rates in Wales have slightly improved — dropping from 9% in 2022 to around 6% in early 2025 — providers are bracing for further recruitment challenges as UK immigration changes restrict the hiring of overseas care workers.

David Eccles, Head of Distribution at Ansvar, said: “The care sector is facing both operational and financial challenges. While the new Health and Social Care (Wales) Act 2025 may bring benefits in the long term, care providers in Pembrokeshire need to take action now to manage the growing risks.”

Alongside staffing pressures, cyber security has become a major concern. With increasing reliance on digital systems, providers are more exposed to data breaches, which can carry significant financial and reputational damage. Across the UK, care providers who reported at least one cyber incident in the past three years faced average costs of £9,528 per breach.

Health and safety obligations, personal accident risk, public liability exposure, and complex compliance requirements also continue to stretch provider capacity.

Eccles added: “There’s no doubt that care providers across Pembrokeshire deliver vital support to the most vulnerable. But in today’s climate, they must review their risk management strategies, invest in staff development, enhance cyber protection, and ensure they have the right insurance cover in place to meet the specific needs of the sector.”

Fast Track West Wales initiative launches across the region

HYWEL DDA University Health Board has formally pledged to become a Fast Track Region, launching Fast Track West Wales — a regional commitment to end new HIV transmissions by 2030 and reduce stigma across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, and Pembrokeshire.

The pledge was signed by Chief Executive Dr Phil Kloer, Executive Director of Public Health Dr Ardiana Gjini, and Sexual Health Consultant Dr Adam Tyler. By joining the global Fast Track Cities initiative, Hywel Dda UHB becomes part of an international and Welsh network of cities and regions working to eliminate new HIV transmissions. The approach centres on expanding testing, prevention, treatment, and access to support services, while also tackling long-standing stigma.

Dr Ardiana Gjini said the move marked a significant step forward for public health in West Wales.

“Becoming a Fast Track Region represents a powerful commitment to our communities,” she said. “Fast Track West Wales is not only about ending new HIV transmissions — it’s about challenging stigma and ensuring dignity for those living with HIV.

“HIV has long been associated with LGBTQIA+ communities, but it’s essential to understand that HIV does not discriminate. Anyone can be affected. Our upcoming campaigns will focus on broadening public understanding and fostering greater compassion.”

Fast Track West Wales is part of Fast Track Cymru, a national programme bringing together health boards, local authorities, voluntary organisations, and individuals with lived experience. The initiative aims to ensure equity, access, and education, so that no one is left behind.

More information about Fast Track Cymru is available at: www.fasttrackcymru.org

Tavernspite and Templeton schools recognised by Hywel Dda University Health Board

HYWEL DDA UNIVERSITY HEALTH BOARD has praised the outstanding efforts of pupils at Tavernspite and Templeton schools, who are pioneering a whole-school approach to emotional and mental wellbeing.

Earlier this year, Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health, visited the schools and was given a tour by pupils showcasing a wide range of initiatives aimed at supporting the health and wellbeing of the entire school community.

As part of their ongoing commitment to becoming Health Promoting Schools, children presented their approach to wellbeing, highlighting activities that foster healthy habits including regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, personal safety, environmental responsibility, good hygiene, and positive social relationships.

The schools have also created a joint initiative known as TEaM – Tavernspite/Templeton Emotional and Mental Well-being. This pupil-led group plays a key role in ensuring that emotional and mental health remains central to school life. Notably, the schools are the first in the UK to be recognised as official “parkrun schools,” a testament to their dedication to encouraging active lifestyles among pupils.

Head teacher Kevin Phelps said:
“Being a health promoting school is the most important work we do. As a federation, we believe deeply in supporting the physical and emotional wellbeing of our staff, pupils, and wider school families.

The many innovative practices we’ve adopted – from TEaM, our emotional wellbeing programme, to the Daily Mile, Smartphone-Free Childhood and parkrun – have already made a significant and positive difference to the health of our community.”

Dr Ardiana Gjini added:
“Schools are vital settings for promoting and protecting health and wellbeing. Tavernspite and Templeton have shown what’s possible when health and education work hand-in-hand.”

Hywel Dda University Health Board has supported the schools for more than a decade, providing training, resources, and guidance as part of their health promotion journey.

To learn more about the Whole School Approach to Emotional and Mental Wellbeing, visit:
https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/staying-healthy/children-and-young-people/