Will the Minister provide an update on the expected timeline for the implementation of direct payments under NHS continuing healthcare (CHC) in Wales, following the Royal Assent of the Health and Social Care (Wales) Act 2025?
The Welsh Government continues to work towards the timeline for enabling direct payments for continuing NHS healthcare (CHC) as outlined in the Explanatory Memorandum accompanying the Bill.
The intention is for the provisions to be implemented from spring 2026. Officials are working at pace to deliver against a number of milestones that will support implementation, including:
- 16 July 2025 – Consultation on proposed regulations for direct payments in health and social care launched
- 8 October 2025 – Consultation closure
- Autumn / Winter 2025 - Regulations and guidance prepared
- Spring 2026 – Publication of the consultation summary of responses
- Spring 2026 – Senedd consideration of the Regulations
- April 2026 – Coming into force date for Regulations
- April 2026 – Publication of guidance
Work is also ongoing within and across Local Health Boards to prepare for implementation. The Welsh Government will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders as appropriate on the legislation and any accompanying guidance.