Mike Hedges AM Requests that Welsh Government prioritise supported housing within the Welsh Budget

Mike Hedges AM Requests that Welsh Government prioritise supported housing within the Welsh Budget

Speaking from The Senedd, Mike Hedges AM said… ‘I have visited many different supported Housing Schemes, including those run by Family Housing and Llanmau in Swansea. I have been very impressed with the impact these types of facility can have in promoting independent living with support on hand if needed; there is no doubt in my mind that if this type of accommodation were not available, then the people would be at much greater risk of needing greater levels of care – and at greater cost. It is not cost that is the driver here however, it is the desire to support people to be as independent as possible for as long as possible, with the highest quality of life as possible.

I am sure that there would be agreement across The Senedd if the Government were to prioritise Supported Housing within this budget.’

Mike Hedges AM – Will the Minister make a statement on the Welsh Government’s budget priorities for 2020-21? OAQ55026

Rebecca Evans AM 14:17:49

Video
The draft budget for 2020-21 delivers on our promises to the people of Wales and invests for the future of our planet, including £324 million extra for the Welsh NHS, almost £200 million extra for local government, and a new £140 million package to help tackle climate change.90

Mike Hedges AM 14:18:09

Video
The Minister, having heard the budget debate yesterday and having heard questions today, cannot fail to be aware of the concern across the Chamber of the need to support supported housing. I saw somebody when I went on a visit who had successfully not gone to hospital for five years. They’d they’d never stayed out of hospital for one year, until they’d gone into supported housing. There is widespread if not near-unanimous support across this Chamber for additional funding for supported housing. Will the Minister look to give it priority during this budget round? Because it really is a matter that seems to unite almost everybody.91

Rebecca Evans AM 14:18:54

Video
I thank Mike Hedges for his contribution. I would reiterate again that I have been listening carefully to colleagues and the arguments are well made. When the appropriate point does come, I will indicate any priority areas for additional funding, should additional funding come forward.