Written Statement - NHS Wales Escalation and Intervention Arrangements

In March 2014, the joint Escalation and Intervention Arrangements were launched. Under these arrangements, the Welsh Government meets the Wales Audit Office and Healthcare Inspectorate Wales twice a year to discuss the overall position of each health board and NHS trust. A wide range of information and intelligence is considered to help identify any issues to help them be resolved effectively.

This statement informs Assembly Members about the outcome of the latest meeting that was held on 18 July 2018.

The framework has four escalation levels:

• Routine arrangements;

• Enhanced monitoring;

• Targeted intervention;

• Special measures.

As a result of the discussions, the Welsh Government, Wales Audit Office and HIW agreed all organisations will remain at their current escalation level as set out in the table at annex 1.

I have already provided members with an update on Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

With regard to the three organisations in targeted intervention, over the last 12 months, progress has been seen, with both Cardiff and Vale and Hywel Dda University Health Boards achieving performance milestones.  In Hywel Dda, the outstanding issue remains finance, though the recent baseline review will help the organisation.

In Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, a new Chief Executive has been appointed and there have been changes to the Executive Team.  There has been a gradual improvement in performance and I expect this to be sustained. I recognise there is still further work to do across all three organisations and my officials continue to work closely with them.

I continue to have expectations for improvement from each of the escalated organisations and their progress will continue to be monitored through formal accountability arrangements and discussions with officials.

Annex 1

This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Assembly returns I would be happy to do so