Welsh Government says translation support is needed so patients can communicate safely with NHS staff

ANDREW RT DAVIES has called for taxpayer-funded foreign language interpreters in the Welsh NHS to be scrapped, claiming the service encourages “health tourism”.

The Conservative Senedd member made the comments after receiving a written answer from Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor, who confirmed the Welsh Government supports providing translation services for patients who need to communicate with NHS staff in foreign languages.

Mr ap Gwynfor said the policy was intended to ensure the communication and information needs of patients and service users are met consistently, including for those whose preferred language is not English or Welsh.

But Mr Davies said the position showed “where Plaid Cymru separatists’ priorities lie”.

He said: “Plaid Cymru separatists should not be funding foreign translation services in our NHS.

“To stamp out health tourism, these interpreters must be scrapped.

“Any other legislation that prevents them from being scrapped has to go too.”

The Welsh Government’s answer referred to the All Wales Communication and Information Standards for Healthcare, which are designed to ensure patients can understand and be understood when accessing care.

The issue is likely to provoke debate, with supporters of translation services arguing they are essential for patient safety, consent, diagnosis and treatment, while critics say public funds should not be used for non-English or non-Welsh language support in the NHS.

The written question was tabled for answer on Thursday (May 28).

Temporary facility set to offer face-to-face banking support as permanent home is sought

A NEW temporary banking hub is expected to open in Pembroke Dock within the next week, offering residents and businesses access to everyday banking services following the closure of traditional high street branches.

The facility, which is being established inside Pembroke Dock Library, was visited this week by county councillor Jonathan Grimes and Preseli Pembrokeshire MS Paul Davies, who received an update on progress from Debbie of Cash Access UK.

According to Cllr Grimes, the temporary hub is now nearing completion and will provide a valuable service to the local community, particularly for residents who still rely on face-to-face banking and cash services.

At present, it is understood that NatWest, Lloyds and Barclays will each have a dedicated day at the hub during the working week, with staff available to offer advice, support and assistance with account-related queries. Other banks are expected to be confirmed in due course.

Importantly, customers will not be restricted to using services only from their own bank. The hub will allow people from any banking provider to carry out routine transactions such as cash withdrawals, deposits and other day-to-day banking needs.

The temporary facility will operate Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and will be based inside the library while plans continue for a permanent banking hub in the town.

Jonathan Grimes, county councillor for Pembroke St Mary South and Monkton, said he was pleased with the progress being made.

He said the temporary hub “already looks fantastic” and would be a “really valuable addition for the community.”

The long-term location for the permanent Pembroke Dock Banking Hub is still being finalised by Cash Access UK, with the permanent site expected to open within the next 12 months.

The move comes amid growing concern over the loss of high street bank branches across Pembrokeshire and the impact this has had on elderly residents, cash-reliant businesses and people without easy access to online banking.

Banking hubs have been rolled out across the UK to plug the gap left by branch closures, offering shared facilities where customers from different banks can access essential services under one roof.

Photo caption: New banking hub: Jonathan Grimes and Paul Davies receive an update on the temporary Pembroke Dock Banking Hub at Pembroke Dock Library (Pic: Supplied).

Young musicians from Sinfonia Cymru will perform at Narberth Scout Hut as part of SPAN Arts’ Cymuned tour

SPAN ARTS is inviting the community to enjoy a free live performance by Sinfonia Cymru on Saturday (June 6).

The concert will feature a quintet of strings and piano, bringing professional live music into the heart of Narberth for audiences of all ages.

Sinfonia Cymru, described as Wales’ orchestra of young talent, is made up of dynamic professional musicians aged under 30. The organisation supports young musicians from Wales and around the world as they begin their professional careers.

The ensemble performs classical music, new compositions and collaborations with musicians from other genres, with a focus on bringing high-quality music to places where audiences feel at home.

The free hour-long concert will take place at Narberth Scout Hut, just off Towns Moor car park, from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. Doors open at 11:30am, with refreshments and snacks available before the performance.

After the concert, audience members will be invited to meet the musicians and learn more about their instruments.

Tickets are free, but booking is advised via span-arts.org.uk/whats-on.

Event details

Event: Sinfonia Cymru – Cymuned tour, followed by musician meet and greet
Tickets: Free, booking advised
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
Time: 12:00pm–1:00pm
Venue: The Scout Hut, Narberth, SA67 7UW

For more information, visit span-arts.org.uk or call 01834 869323.