Welsh Government Unveils New AI Plan to Boost Public Services, Skills and Economic Growth
Welsh Government Unveils New AI Plan to Boost Public Services, Skills and Economic Growth
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The Welsh Government has announced a new national plan to embed artificial intelligence across key sectors, aiming to harness the technology’s potential to strengthen public services, drive economic growth and equip the workforce for an increasingly AI-shaped future.
Published just one week after the launch of the AI Zone for North Wales, the AI Plan for Wales outlines a long-term roadmap for adopting AI in a responsible, ethical and collaborative way.
Public services in Wales are already deploying AI tools, from personalised learning in schools to automation in local government and faster diagnostic pathways in the NHS.
A notable example is a pilot project at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, run in partnership with the Centre for Digital Public Services (CDPS). The trial is assessing whether AI scribing technology can reduce the administrative workload of clinicians working in children’s neurodevelopmental services.
The system automatically transcribes and summarises clinical conversations, freeing staff to spend more time with families and less on paperwork. Early feedback suggests the technology could shorten assessment and reporting times without compromising accuracy, supporting faster access to care.
Kath Bowen, Operational/AHP Lead for the Paediatric Neurodiversity Assessment Service at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, said: “AI scribe technology has been a valuable addition to our service. It’s saving staff hours each week, allowing us to see more children and focus on meaningful conversations with families.
“Staff feel more present and engaged, and families have responded positively to the reports, noting their accuracy and how well they reflect their child.”
“This pilot shows how AI can enhance human connection, and help us deliver better, more responsive care.”
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said the plan reflects Wales’ determination to seize the economic and public service benefits of AI.
She said: “The AI Plan for Wales shows our ambition to capitalise on the vast opportunities of AI to help us deliver excellent public services, unlock inclusive economic growth and equip people with the skills to thrive in a modern world.
“We are mindful that we must navigate these opportunities with care, and are committed to ensuring AI is used in ways that are transparent, inclusive, and safe.
“Last week, working with the UK Government we announced the first AI Growth Zone for Wales which will ensure the north Wales region can reap the economic benefits of AI.
“Public trust is essential and we will earn it through strong partnerships, human oversight, fair work, and a shared commitment to ethical innovation. Together, we can shape a future where AI works for everyone.”
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy highlighted AI’s potential role in modernising NHS services. She said: “AI has the potential to transform how the NHS works in Wales. AI scribe technology can boost our efforts driving down waiting times for neurodevelopmental services by making the assessment process faster and more efficient. It can also improve patient care and their experiences of treatment, as it allows staff to spend more time with children and their families.”
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