MS, Minister for Mental
Health and Wellbeing: Two years ago, The Hughes Report was
published setting out options for a UK redress scheme for women
harmed by pelvic mesh and sodium valproate.
The Welsh Government recognises the profound impact on women and
the continued distress caused by the absence of a comprehensive
resolution. Those affected have shown extraordinary resilience
and determination.
In her report, Dr Henrietta Hughes recommended a UK‑wide redress
scheme is set up to meet the needs of individual patients who
have suffered “avoidable harm” because of the failures of pelvic
mesh and sodium valproate. She also said individuals “must not be
subjected to an emotional rollercoaster” and she said it would be
profoundly unfair to commission this work if the government had
no intention of providing redress.
Responsibility for progressing such a redress scheme rests with
the UK Government.
Welsh Ministers have consistently pressed for progress through
four‑nation discussions and remain clear that further delay risks
compounding the harm already experienced by women and their
families.
The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care has recently
discussed this matter with ministerial colleagues from the UK
Government and the other devolved governments. While discussions
are ongoing, there is no decision about redress.
We will continue to press for progress, while ensuring our
position is clearly understood.
On this anniversary, I reiterate our commitment to all those
affected.
We continue to advocate for financial redress, to end the
emotional rollercoaster of anticipation and the long-running
harm.
We will take action where we have the power to do so, and work
with others to achieve a fair and lasting resolution.
