Health, Care and Welfare

The Welsh Consumer Council published a report entitled 'Welsh in the Health Service' in 2000. The report identified four key groups of 'vulnerable' people who should be able to receive services in their first language:

• Mental health patients
• People with learning disabilities and other special needs
• Older people
• Young children.

As stated by the Welsh Language Board:

“…in circumstances where stress, vulnerability, illness or disability are key factors, not being able to communicate in their first language may place those concerned at a personal disadvantage. Given the sensitive nature of many of these discussions, it is important to offer language choice whenever possible.”

[Guideline 6(iv), page 26]
Welsh Language Schemes - Welsh Language Board