2 February 2024

Dear colleagues

Mental Health Standards of Care (Wales) Bill: Consultation

On 13 December 2023, the Welsh Parliament agreed that I could introduce proposals for a new law in Wales, called the Mental Health Standards of Care (Wales) Bill.

The purpose of the Bill is to replace outdated mental health legislation; improve the delivery of mental health plans for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and adult services in Wales; improve the accountability of Welsh public sector organisations; help to establish parity between the treatment of physical and mental health; and help to reduce mental health stigma in Wales.

The reforms proposed in the Bill will ensure that patients are more empowered, have more choice and influence over their treatment and receive the dignity and respect they deserve. The measures proposed within the Bill will also strengthen the patient voice.

As part of the process, I now have until 13 January 2025 to introduce a Bill that meets that purpose. My proposed law will then be scrutinised in detail by the Senedd, before a final decision is taken on whether it should become law. If passed, the Bill would become the Mental Health Standards of Care (Wales) Act.

I am now consulting as widely as possible on my proposal. The attached document gives further background information and asks a number of questions about the proposal and how it might be developed. I want everyone who could be affected by this proposed Bill, who has views on it or has expertise, to contribute. I will consider all responses, which I hope will help inform my approach to drafting the Bill.

I would, therefore, be very grateful if you could find the time to contribute to this consultation and let me have your or your organisation’s views on the proposed Bill and what it is seeking to achieve. I look forward to receiving any comments you wish to make by 22 March 2024.

Thank you for your time.

Yours faithfully

James Evans MS

Member of the Welsh Parliament for Brecon and Radnorshire