4. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Winter Protection Plan

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:53 pm on 15 September 2020.

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Photo of Vikki Howells Vikki Howells Labour 4:53, 15 September 2020

Diolch, Dirprwy Lywydd. Minister, thank you for your statement today, which I've read with great interest. One key part of ensuring our hospitals are able to cope with demand through normal winters, let alone this coming one, is the ability to discharge in-patients in a safe and timely manner to avoid bedblocking. I know that RCT council and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board have worked closely with the Welsh Government's integrated care fund in past years to develop innovative community-based initiatives, which have assisted very many patients in achieving a safe and timely discharge from hospital, releasing those beds for those who need them most. So, I welcome the fact that, on 24 August, you announced a 12-month extension to the integrated care fund. It's clearly a central pillar of our response to winter pressures, so what work is Welsh Government doing to ensure that all local authorities and health boards are fully aware of the benefits of the integrated care fund and have the resources in place to exploit its potential fully this coming winter?