HEIW launches Ffordd - a national wellbeing resource for the mental health workforce in Wales

Published 31/03/2026

Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) has launched Ffordd, a digital wellbeing hub for the mental health workforce. Aligned to the Strategic Mental Health Workforce Plan for Health and Social Care Wales, the hub is designed to strengthen resilience, build confidence and support psychological safety across Wales. It brings trusted information, practical tools and compassionate guidance together in one easy to use space.

Ffordd was created after staff asked for one reliable place to find wellbeing support. They wanted resources that reflect the realities of their roles and a space that feels compassionate, safe and simple to use. In response to this, HEIW worked in partnership with practitioners, wellbeing leads, psychological services and partners across health and social care in Wales to develop Ffordd.

Ffordd is the Welsh word for “way”. The name reflects the aim to support people throughout their careers, not only during difficult times.

HEIW recognises the emotional and psychological pressures that come with mental health work. Ffordd offers trauma informed support after difficult events such as inquests, patient suicide or safeguarding incidents. It also brings everyday wellbeing tools, reflective guidance, local and national support services and opportunities to connect with peers through communities of practice into one place.

By making support easy to find, Ffordd helps staff feel less isolated and more supported to reflect, recover and stay grounded in their work. It helps people regain confidence after challenging experiences and focus on providing quality care. Ffordd also creates greater consistency across Wales, so staff can expect the same level of support wherever they work.

Ffordd lays the foundations for future support pathways to enable the development of psychologically safe cultures and improve retention across the mental health workforce. It will continue to evolve through feedback from staff to keep it relevant, practical and shaped by real experience.

Angie Oliver, Deputy Director of Workforce and organisational Development said: 

“Ffordd is an excellent resource that supports the mental health workforce at every level. It offers compassionate, practical wellbeing support that is easy to access whenever it is needed. It’s great to see it live and we hope staff find the resources beneficial."

Visit the HEIW website to learn more about Ffordd.