Newyddion WAHWN
WAHWN members urged to have their say in new Culture and Sport Strategy
Wales' Arts Health and Wellbeing Network welcomes the launch of the Welsh Government's open call for evidence on a new Culture and Sport Strategy for Wales, announced by Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Heledd Fychan MS, at a panel discussion at the National Eisteddfod.
Describing the launch as the beginning of "a new chapter" for culture and sport in Wales, the Minister made clear that the ambition is to create a long-term strategy that is shaped by the people and organisations working across the sectors, not "a strategy to put on the shelf”.
Speaking directly to those gathered, Heledd Fychan called for people to be open and honest while sharing their experiences to help shape a strategy that reflects the needs and ambitions of Wales across the arts, culture, heritage, creative industries and sport. She also emphasised the importance of taking a joined-up approach, rather than allowing different sectors to compete against one another for limited resources.
A key theme during the panel discussion was the role that culture and sport play in supporting health and wellbeing, including preventative care.
Addressing investment in the sector, Heledd Fychan said: "We cannot afford not to invest in culture and sport… Everyone has a basic right to be happy."
She also outlined ambitions to strengthen the role of local authorities within the new strategy. As arts and sport are non-statutory services, they are often among the first areas to face cuts during periods of financial pressure. Developing a more joined-up, long-term approach across national and local government will therefore be an important part of the conversation.
The discussion also highlighted the economic value of investment in the arts.
During the panel discussion, Dafydd Rhys, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales, spoke about Cynefin and the importance of positioning the arts as a frontline service rather than an optional extra, as well as sustainable, long-term investment. He highlighted that Wales' arts and health sector is at the forefront of international good practice and referenced the independent report Assessing the Economic Impact of the Arts on Health and Healthcare Services in Wales. Produced by the Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation (CHEME) at Bangor University and the Research Centre for Arts and Wellbeing at Edge Hill University, the report provides the first national assessment of the economic impact of the arts on the NHS and social care in Wales, suggesting that every £1 invested generates an estimated £2.51 in economic return.
Practical examples of the arts improving health and wellbeing were also shared during the discussion, including the Knit and Stitch project and Dance to Health.
Have your say
The Welsh Govenment’s consultation on the new strategy offers WAHWN members the opportunity to help shape the future of culture and sport in Wales, and to ensure that the contribution of the arts to health and wellbeing is recognised as central.
We encourage everyone working across the arts, health, social care, local government, research and the third sector to take part in the consultation too.
The consultation closes on 18 December 2026.
We look forward to working with members, partners and communities across Wales to help ensure the new Culture and Sport Strategy recognises the transformative role arts, culture and creativity play in improving health, wellbeing and quality of life for everyone.