This weekend, Haverfordwest, one of the two Welsh towns to retain the historic ‘civic’ office of Sheriff, proudly hosted the National Association of City and Town Sheriffs of England and Wales (NACTSEW) Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference for 2024. The event, which marks a significant occasion in the town’s calendar, drew past and current Sheriffs from across the nation to celebrate and deliberate on the venerable role of Sheriff, a tradition steeped in history.

The current Sheriff of Haverfordwest, Cllr Jill Owens, who served as Mayor in the previous year, was at the forefront of the weekend’s activities. The town last welcomed the Association back in 2007, making this event a notable return and a festive reunion for many members.

The weekend kicked off on Friday evening at the Cricket Club, where the Town Council, led by Mayor Cllr Martin Lewis, welcomed the Sheriffs and their consorts. The Mayor took the opportunity to express the town’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Association and encouraging membership among past and present Sheriffs.

The main proceedings of the AGM took place at County Hall, followed by cultural tours to the iconic St David’s Cathedral and Pembroke Castle, enriching the visitors’ experience of Welsh heritage. Concurrently, consorts enjoyed exploring local shops and sites, adding a communal and economic boost to Haverfordwest.

A highlight of the gathering was the Gala Evening held at the Wolfscastle Country Hotel, providing a grand setting for the Sheriffs and their guests to dine formally and socialize.

The ceremonial highlight of the weekend was the Sunday Shrieval Service at St Mary’s Church. The Sheriffs, dressed in their ceremonial robes, processed from the Town Council’s offices on Quay Street up to the High Street, a spectacle that invited public participation and celebration. The service was followed by a gathering where attendees enjoyed traditional Welsh Cakes, capturing the spirit of community and heritage.

This year also marks the 40th anniversary of NACTSEW, a testament to the enduring relevance and appeal of the Sheriff’s role in the civic life of English and Welsh communities. The idea for the Association was conceived by the former Sheriff of Gloucester, Andrew Gravells, MBE, who now serves as the Honorary Life President.

As the event concluded, Haverfordwest Town Council extended its gratitude to all who contributed to the successful hosting of the AGM and Conference. The baton passes to Lichfield for 2025, with Haverfordwest setting a high precedent in celebrating the historic and continuing significance of the Sheriff’s office.

THE NHS in Wales continues to navigate a complex landscape of challenges and achievements as it strives to deliver quality healthcare to its population.

Recent reports highlight both the pressures faced by the system and the initiatives underway to address them.

Healthcare professionals across Wales have expressed concerns over increasing workloads and resource constraints. Hospitals are grappling with high patient numbers, leading to extended waiting times for elective surgeries and specialist consultations. According to figures released by NHS Wales in September 2023, the number of patients waiting for treatment exceeded 750,000—a record high.

Emergency departments have reported surges in attendance, putting additional strain on staff and facilities. In August 2023, A&E departments across Wales recorded their busiest summer on record. Dr. Rachel Davies, an A&E consultant at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, commented, “We’ve seen unprecedented numbers of patients this year. Our staff are working tirelessly, but the demand is overwhelming.”

In rural areas like Pembrokeshire, the situation is compounded by geographical hurdles. This newspaper has recently highlighted concerns over ambulance response times in the county, noting that residents in remote locations often face longer waits for emergency services. Local resident Sarah Jenkins shared her experience: “When my mother fell ill, it took over an hour for the ambulance to arrive. In critical situations, every minute counts.”

A shortage of medical personnel remains a significant issue. Recruitment and retention of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals are ongoing concerns. The Royal College of Nursing Wales reported in October 2023 that there are over 1,800 nursing vacancies across the country. Many professionals cite burnout and limited resources as factors influencing their decision to leave or avoid joining the NHS workforce in Wales.

Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Minister for Health and Social Services, acknowledged these challenges during a recent Senedd debate. “We are acutely aware of the staffing shortages and the immense pressure our healthcare workers are under,” she said. “Addressing these issues is a top priority for the government. We’re investing in training and recruitment to bolster our workforce.”

Opposition parties have called for more decisive action. Plaid Cymru’s health spokesperson, Rhun ap Iorwerth, stated, “The staffing crisis in our NHS is not just a numbers problem; it’s about the wellbeing of those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. We need urgent measures to support and retain our healthcare professionals.”

In response to the mounting pressures, the Welsh Government has increased funding for the NHS, aiming to improve infrastructure and service delivery. The 2023 budget included an additional £425 million allocated to health and social services. Investments are being made in modernising hospitals, expanding digital healthcare services, and streamlining patient care pathways.

The then First Minister Mark Drakeford addressed the situation during a press briefing in September 2023: “Our commitment to the NHS is unwavering. We are working closely with health boards to tackle waiting times and ensure that everyone in Wales has access to the care they need.”

The government has also launched targeted recruitment campaigns and enhanced training opportunities to bolster staffing levels. “We are investing in our future workforce,” Eluned Morgan added. “By supporting education and providing incentives, we aim to attract new talent to the NHS and retain our valued staff.”

Despite the hurdles, there are success stories emerging within the NHS in Wales. Community-based health programmes are making strides in preventive care, focusing on wellness and early intervention to reduce the burden on hospitals. For instance, the “Healthy Pembrokeshire” initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles through local events and education.

Telemedicine initiatives have been accelerated, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing access to care for those in remote areas. Dr. Gareth Thomas, a GP in Ceredigion, noted, “Virtual consultations have been a game-changer for patients who live miles away from the nearest clinic. It has significantly improved access to care and reduced travel times.”

Healthcare professionals are also embracing collaborative approaches, with multidisciplinary teams working together to provide comprehensive care. These efforts aim to improve patient outcomes and increase efficiency within the system.

Patients have offered mixed feedback on the state of the NHS in Wales. While many praise the dedication of healthcare workers and the quality of care received, others express frustration over delays and difficulties in accessing services.

John Evans, a patient awaiting hip surgery, shared his experience with Wales Online: “I’ve been on the waiting list for over 18 months. The pain limits my mobility, and it’s affecting my quality of life. I understand the pressures the NHS is under, but the delays are disheartening.”

Advocacy groups are calling for increased transparency and patient involvement in decision-making processes. The Patients Association Wales has urged the government to “prioritise patient voices in policy development and healthcare planning.”

The Welsh Conservative health spokesperson, Russell George, commented, “Patients are bearing the brunt of systemic failures. The Welsh Government must take responsibility and implement effective strategies to reduce waiting times and improve service delivery.”

The NHS in Wales stands at a critical juncture. Balancing immediate demands with long-term strategic planning is essential to address the systemic issues at hand. Continued investment, innovative solutions, and collaborative efforts between the government, healthcare providers, and communities are key to strengthening the NHS for future generations.

As the nation navigates these challenges, the resilience and commitment of its healthcare professionals remain a beacon of hope. The path forward will require concerted efforts to ensure that the NHS can continue to uphold its founding principles of providing comprehensive, accessible healthcare to all.

IN CARMARTHEN, the West Wales Motorcycle Club is changing lives by blending a love for motorcycles with community and mental health support. Founded in 2017, this not-for-profit organisation offers a unique approach to well-being through hands-on mechanical work and social interaction.

The club’s bi-weekly workshops, held every second Saturday between 9 am and 3 pm, provide members with access to a well-equipped space for repairing and restoring motorcycles. These project bikes, some seemingly beyond redemption, are revived thanks to the combined expertise of the members. The process is not just about mechanics; it fosters a sense of accomplishment, builds confidence, and diminishes feelings of isolation among participants.

Inclusivity is at the heart of the club’s ethos. Membership does not require motorcycle ownership, allowing anyone interested to join the community. Whether they wish to learn about motorcycle maintenance or simply enjoy a cup of tea with fellow enthusiasts, members find a welcoming and supportive environment. The club also boasts members with mental health support backgrounds, including trained mental health first aiders, ensuring that those struggling can access a listening ear and be signposted to specialist organisations if needed.

Originally supported by a significant National Lottery Grant, the club has since sustained itself through smaller grants and recently secured funding from the National Lottery’s All Wales Grant Scheme. This funding guarantees at least another year of operations, providing the necessary time to see.

The club’s workshops not only serve as a hub for mechanical learning but also as a means to promote positive mental health. The collaborative efforts on motorcycle restoration projects provide a therapeutic outlet for members, allowing them to connect with others who share their passion. Through these social and mechanical interactions, the club offers an innovative approach to community well-being.

Graham Sines, the club’s Secretary, highlights the project’s uniqueness and invites interested individuals to visit during a workshop session to see the initiative in action. The club’s focus on inclusivity, social interaction, and mental well-being makes it a standout organisation in the West Wales community.

For more information, visit their website at https://www.westwalesmotorcycle.club or contact them via email at [email protected].