Cardiff and Vale University Health Board responds to Independent Assessment Report

7 August 2026

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board has responded to the publication of an Independent Assessment report commissioned by Welsh Government as part of the targeted intervention arrangements currently in place for the organisation. 

In July 2025, the Health Board was placed at Level 4, or targeted intervention, within Welsh Government's escalation and intervention arrangements. As part of this process, NHS Wales Performance and Improvement was commissioned to undertake an independent assessment to help understand the factors contributing to the Health Board's current position and identify the changes needed to support future improvement and de-escalation. 

As part of the assessment, independent advisers spoke with around 200 colleagues from across the organisation to understand their experiences and perspectives.  
 
The report examined leadership, culture, behaviours and governance, identifying areas where improvement is needed while also recognising strengths within the organisation and the commitment of its workforce. 

Chris Bown, Interim Chief Executive of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, said: 

"We take the findings of the report extremely seriously and recognise that there are a number of areas requiring improvement - these must be addressed at pace. 

"Whilst work is already underway in a number of the areas identified, we recognise that more needs to be done. The report provides valuable insight into where we need to improve and will help shape our ongoing improvement plans, ensuring they remain focused on strengthening services and improving experiences and outcomes for the people we serve. 

"Every day, colleagues make a difference by providing care, support and reassurance during some of the most important and challenging moments in people's lives. That dedication is recognised within the report, and it provides a strong foundation on which to build the improvements needed for the future. 

"We are committed to listening, learning and taking action. By keeping people at the heart of everything we do, we can make lasting improvements for our patients, communities and staff." 

The Health Board has already begun work in a number of areas, including strengthening governance arrangements, supporting leadership development and bringing improvement activity together through a single Integrated Improvement Plan. This will provide a clear and coordinated approach to delivering the changes needed to support long-term improvement. 

The report also recognises positive progress made in addressing some longstanding behavioural challenges and highlights Cardiff and Vale University Health Board as a desirable place to work, reflecting the dedication and commitment shown by colleagues across the organisation. 

Kirsty Williams, Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, said: 

"This report provides an important opportunity for reflection, learning and improvement. While it identifies areas where change is needed, it also recognises the commitment of colleagues across our organisation and the progress that has already been made. 

"We are committed to being an organisation that listens, learns and continually improves. Working closely with Welsh Government, NHS Wales partners, staff and stakeholders, we will focus on making the changes needed to strengthen our culture, leadership and governance, while continuing to deliver safe and effective care for our communities. 

"Meaningful change takes time, commitment and sustained effort, but we are determined to use the findings of this report to build a stronger organisation for the future. By learning from what the report tells us and maintaining a clear focus on what matters most to patients, communities and staff, we can continue to improve the services people rely on and strengthen confidence in our organisation." 
 
Welsh Government: Written Statement: Cardiff and Vale University Health Board Level 4 Independent Assessment Report (7 August 2026) | GOV.WALES

Press and media enquiries: Please email our press office at news@wales.nhs.uk for a copy of our statement, with other lines of enquiry or for interview requests.