Compassionate care is the responsibility of all says minister

Day in, day out, the experience of the vast majority of people coming into contact with the NHS in Wales is of care which is dignified and respectful. I want to see a culture of conversation in the health service, where people feel able to voice concerns about care and know they are being heard. Of course, when things don’t happen as they should, we must listen, learn and take action.

Safe, compassionate care is the responsibility of everyone in the health service, from cleaner to Chief Executive. We know that NHS staff in Wales are highly motivated and committed, and we must ensure we have a health service which allows them to get on with their job of providing excellent care.The Francis Inquiry, although undertaken in response to failures outside Wales, offers us the opportunity to look at our health service with a critical eye and ensure we are in the best shape to deliver the safe, compassionate care patients deserve.