Carl Sargeant, Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Children
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
A report on the Supporting People Programme was released today by the Wales Audit Office (WAO). I am grateful to the WAO for its work in compiling a report on this important grant programme.
I welcome the WAO’s view that the Programme provides important services and has made considerable progress in recent years. However, I also acknowledge their observation that it needs further improvement.
It is important we reflect on how far the programme has come since the 2010 Aylward Review. The work of support providers makes a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people.
Going forward we must ensure service users are at the heart of the Programme’s decision making and their interests are represented.
I acknowledge there is still work to do around improving regional working and ensuring services focus on delivering housing related support, and I am committed to making this happen. The Welsh Government will work closely with the sector to reflect on the report’s recommendations and further improve this vital programme for Wales. The Welsh Government will reply formally to the WAO’s findings and recommendations in due course.
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.