An independent assessment of the challenges facing Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has been published today as part of the Level 4 intervention overseen by NHS Wales Performance and Improvement and commissioned by the Welsh Government.
The health board was escalated to the highest level of intervention in July 2025 following concerns around its growing financial deficit, quality and planned care waiting times, and issues relating to culture and leadership. In March 2026, the previous Welsh Government agreed a formal escalation framework outlining the reasons for intervention and the support and oversight arrangements to be delivered through NHS Wales Performance and Improvement.
The first phase of this intervention involved an independent assessment led by two senior advisors with extensive operational, executive and medical leadership experience. Their work focused on governance, organisational culture, leadership, and the effectiveness of existing improvement and recovery plans.
The report identifies significant concerns across leadership, culture, governance, planning and organisational capability. It concludes that these issues are systemic and long‑standing, requiring an organisational reset, a single recovery plan, and strengthened accountability and assurance. The Cabinet Minister for Health and Care said the new Welsh Government “will not allow such issues to continue” and will “robustly hold the health board to account for its performance.”
Despite the seriousness of the findings, the report also highlights areas of improvement. It notes the commitment and dedication of staff who continue to prioritise patient safety despite working in difficult circumstances. The Minister thanked staff for their contributions and determination to support the required changes.
The assessment also recognises areas of good practice, including performance in urgent and emergency care and specialist services. Improvements in board oversight and development under the new Chair were also acknowledged, though the Minister said further progress is needed to meet the expectations of Government and the public.
With the report now published, the second phase of intervention will support the Chair and newly appointed Interim Chief Executive in setting a clear direction for the organisation. The health board is expected to work closely with NHS Wales Performance and Improvement to produce a single, organisation‑wide improvement plan that addresses the underlying causes of concern and sets out clear actions, milestones and accountability measures aligned with the escalation framework.
The Minister will chair a meeting with the health board in November 2026 to review progress. He said he expects “sustained improvements across all areas” and assurance that changes can be embedded consistently.
As part of the Government’s First 100 Days commitments, work is also underway to review the national escalation and intervention framework to ensure it better supports improvements in health board performance.
The statement has been issued during recess to keep Members informed. The Minister said he would be willing to make a further statement or answer questions when the Senedd returns.
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