Jane Hutt MS, Minister for Social Justice and Chief Whip
I have today launched the Welsh Benefits Charter, which is at the heart of our work to develop a compassionate, person-centred and streamlined Welsh benefits system.
This is a key commitment in our Child Poverty Strategy, which will be launched tomorrow (23 January).
The Welsh Benefits Charter commits the Welsh Government and local authorities to work together to improve the take-up rate and the experiences people have when they access the financial support the Welsh Government makes available. To put the charter commitments into action, an external steering group chaired by Fran Targett has been established.
Improving the Welsh benefits system is part of the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru Co-operation Agreement commitment to support the devolution of the administration of welfare and to explore the necessary infrastructure required to prepare for it.
I visited Blaenavon Resources Centre in Torfaen today with the Designated Member for the Co-operation Agreement, Sian Gwenllian, and Leader of Torfaen Council Anthony Hunt to launch the Welsh Benefits Charter.
I intend to make a statement to the Senedd about the Welsh Benefits Charter next month.