Meinir Jones

Non-Executive Director at Life Sciences Hub Wales and National Clinical Director, NHS Executive Wales

The first Women’s Health Plan for Wales illustrates a 10-year vision to improve healthcare services for women and tackle the gender health gap.

Launched December 2024 by the NHS Wales Executive, the Women’s Health Plan for Wales is spearheaded by the National Strategic Clinical Network for Women’s Health. This clinically led, multi-professional network is an enabler of the wider NHS Wales National Clinical Framework and works between NHS health boards and Welsh Government while engaging with patient groups and the third sector.

Equitable health services for all women

The network will work with NHS Wales Executive’s other national strategic clinical networks to ensure a coordinated, collaborative and evidence-based approach to address how NHS Wales will provide equitable health services for women across all conditions.

Sarah Murphy, Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, explains: “This plan is the culmination of an immense effort, and I extend my gratitude to the National Strategic Clinical Network for Women’s Health for their dedication. But this is just the beginning; the real work starts now.”

By prioritising women’s health, Wales is setting a
new standard in patient-centred, research-driven
and technologically advanced healthcare.

Key women’s health initiatives

The plan sets out nearly 60 actions to be achieved in short (<2 years), medium (3–5 years), and long-term (6–10 years) phases. Key actions include the formation of Women’s Health Hubs across all NHS Wales Health Boards to offer dedicated services tailored to women’s specific needs; the creation of a National Women’s Health Dashboard to provide real-time data tracking health metrics; and delivery of educational initiatives to increase understanding of women’s health conditions.

Research and innovation will drive success

Life Sciences Hub Wales recently supported researchers from Cardiff, Bangor and Swansea Universities, who have subsequently secured £3 million in catalytic funding from Health and Care Research Wales to launch a Women’s Health Research Centre within Cardiff University. Life Sciences Hub Wales helps researchers, innovators and industry partners secure funding and accelerate impact.

Shaping the future

By prioritising women’s health, Wales is setting a new standard in patient-centred, research-driven and technologically advanced healthcare. The plan lays the foundation for a more equitable and effective healthcare system, ensuring better outcomes for women across the country.