The Welsh Government has launched a new plan to embed the
benefits of AI in various sectors and shape its influence to
improve the lives of people across Wales.
A week after the AI Zone for North Wales was launched, the AI
Plan for Wales sets out how the transformative power of
artificial intelligence will be embraced across Wales to drive
economic growth, enhance public services in both Welsh and
English, and equip people across Wales with the skills to thrive
in an AI-shaped future.
The Plan will act as a long term roadmap and establish the
building blocks for exploring the potential of AI in a
responsible, ethical, and collaborative way.
The Welsh Government is already delivering at pace on AI. It has:
- Launched the AI Growth Zone for North Wales, in partnership
with the UK Government.
- Established an Office for AI to provide leadership and
direction on public service transformation.
- Formed the independent Strategic AI Advisory Group to
strengthen our ecosystem across sectors.
- Invested in public service innovation and workforce
upskilling.
- Developed ethical guidance for AI use in public sector
workplaces through social partnership.
Public services across Wales are already embracing AI – from
personalised learning in schools, to automation in local
government, and faster diagnoses in the NHS.
A pilot in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, in
partnership with the Centre for Digital Public Services (CDPS),
is exploring how AI scribing technology might reduce the
administrative burden for clinical teams working in children's
neurodevelopmental services.
The technology transcribes and summarises clinical conversations,
enabling staff to spend more time focusing on children and
families, and less time on paperwork.
Early feedback suggests it could shorten assessments and
reporting processes while maintaining quality and accuracy,
helping teams respond more quickly to families waiting for
support.
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, , 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 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.”
Notes to editors
Joanna Goodwin, Head of User Centred Design at CDPS said:
“It's exciting to see how these technologies can strengthen human
connection and put people at the heart of the service. The pilot
has exceeded our expectations, demonstrating the potential for
meaningful, scalable change.
“While early data suggests we could reduce waiting lists and
deliver services more efficiently, it's vital to remember that
this work is ultimately about improving experiences for the
families and children who rely on us.”
