HEIW unveils plan to boost NHS care quality and access across Wales

Published: 20/05/2025

As part of their Integrated Medium Term Plan 2025 – 26, Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) has announced 8 strategic priorities to develop a highly skilled and sustainable workforce, ensuring improved care and better health outcomes for the people of Wales.

Priority one centres on delivering National Workforce Solutions for Quality and Productivity.

Working closely with NHS organisations, national health programmes, and clinical networks, HEIW is taking action to tackle long-standing workforce challenges that impact the day-to-day delivery of care. The plan outlines a focused approach to supporting timely access to healthcare and delivering better outcomes for patients.

Key areas of the plan include:

• Faster access to treatment and diagnosis by strengthening the surgical (perioperative), diagnostic, and emergency care workforce.
• Better end-of-life care through a dedicated palliative care competence project.
• Support for cancer patients via the development of the Cancer Nurse Specialist workforce.
• Improved women’s health services by reviewing training and education needs.
• Enhanced mental health care through better workforce planning in psychological therapies.
• Final delivery of the Healthcare Science Framework, ensuring consistency in skills and service delivery.

This national plan takes a “Once for Wales” approach, meaning patients can expect more consistent and high-quality care across all parts of the country. The plan also supports NHS staff by offering clearer training pathways, opportunities for career development, and improved job satisfaction.

Glyn Jones, Deputy Chief Executive & Director of Finance Planning & Performance at HEIW, said:

“We are committed to working with our partners to reduce waste, avoid harm and support NHS Wales in improving productivity and performance - especially during financially challenging times. Our plans will help improve the quality of care and make NHS Wales a great place to work.

Lisa Llewelyn, Executive Director of Nursing, Health Professions and Quality at HEIW, added:

Our aim is to ensure every patient in Wales receives high-quality care, wherever they are. This plan focuses on building a skilled, motivated and sustainable workforce that is equipped to meet the evolving needs of our communities.”

For further information please see our Integrated Medium Term Plan (IMTP) or contact heiw@wales.nhs.uk.