NEW SENEDD IN WALES
On 7 May 2026, Plaid Cymru was elected in Wales. Information here relating to Wales represents the previous Labour Government plans and progress so subject to change. We will keep you updated as and when things change. You can also read here our summary of Plaid Cymru’s manifesto commitments which will inform legislative and policy developments in Wales.
Adult Social Care Review
In a speech at the LGA conference on 7 July 26, Baroness Casey highlighted the importance of seeking views from the public about social care to feed into much needed reform.
Supporting people in Scotland to stay in their community
Scottish Government has committed £20m to support the implementation of its Coming Home Action Plan with meaures for tailored support and housing close to home, family and friends.
Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) strategy 2026-2030
On 1 April HIW launched its strategy for healthcare which aims to “put people first, drive improvement across services, and take action where patient safety is most at risk”.
Neighbourhood health centres
NHS England has published its guidance for neighbourhood health centres. As part of the Government’s 10 Year Health Plan, neighbourhood health centres support the shift towards prevention, early intervention, and more integrated care closer to home. The guidance is a statement of policy intent and a practical planning instruction for neighbourhood health centre development.
NHS (England) 10-Year Health Plan - Neighbourhood Health Framework
As part of its 10-year Health Plan, Government published on 17 March 26, its Neighbourhood Health Framework. Based on the premis that most people want to access health and care as close to home as possible and staff want to be able to provide support without constrained by organisational boundaries, the Government aims to create a neighbourhood health service based on collaboration between the NHS, local authorites and wider partners. Four key changes (2026-2029) are planned:
LGBT+ Health Evidence Review (England)
The LGBT+ Health Evidence Review by Dr Michael Brady to better understand the health and care needs of LGBT+ individuals and tackle inequalities was due to conclude in January with a final report and recommendations but has still not yet been published.
Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (England)
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 includes measures (from 1 May 26) to ‘level the playing field’ between private tenants and their landlords including:
