BPS welcomes health funding boost in Welsh budget

The Welsh government has published its draft budget for 2025-26, hailing it as a 'budget for a brighter future'.

Overall, if agreed, the budget will see a £26 billion investment in Wales and backed by an additional £1.5 billion compared to last year, it will provide increases to every department.

In a report setting out the budget, the government said it had shaped its spending plans to prioritise public services and deliver on its priorities, which include cutting NHS waiting times, including for mental health; and improving access to social care and services for women's health.

Sharon Davis, chair of the BPS Welsh Branch, said:

"We're pleased to see this extra investment in our health and other public services and are delighted that the government is also prioritising cutting mental health waiting lists. This is great news as we know that the need for mental health support is continuing to grow.

"Psychologists and other psychological staff are well placed to help the government address its priorities and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership, not only to tackle mental ill-health but also to take a preventative approach where we can."

In line with the milestones set out in Wales' first Women's Health Plan, which was published yesterday, the budget also allocates £3 million towards improving healthcare for women.

An additional £7 million was announced to support school attendance and an extra £14.3 million to increase support for sustainable and improved delivery of provision for children and young people with additional learning needs.

The draft budget will be voted on in March 2025.

BPS welcomes Women's Health Plan for Wales