Foreword

Mark Drakeford MS First Minister of Wales This is our final annual report of this Senedd term – a term unlike any in the 20 years since devolution. Since this government was formed in 2016, we have faced a series of unprecedented challenges. Brexit and our new relationship with the European Union will have far-reaching implications for our society, economy and our place in the world. A decade of UK Government-imposed austerity has fuelled inequality and damaged the lives of a generation, particularly the most vulnerable. The climate emergency continues to be a global challenge, which needs urgent action if we are to secure the future we want for our children and grandchildren. The scale of the challenges this term have been unlike anything we have seen in the history of devolution. We have had to take difficult decisions – and the pace and importance of these has only intensified over the past year as the coronavirus pandemic has threatened the lives and livelihoods of people across Wales, while turning every aspect of life on its head. I am proud of our response to the pandemic – it has been built on openness, partnership and collaboration. We placed our trust in our public services and social partners and they have delivered. In the NHS, in local authorities and in all parts of society, we have witnessed the dedication, commitment, hard work and kindness of critical workers. As a government, we thank you all. In spite of these challenges, we have delivered on the pledges we were elected on. We have delivered on apprenticeships, implemented our Childcare Offer, cut taxes for small businesses, more than doubled the capital limit for those moving into residential care, provided £100m for school standards and delivered a New Treatment Fund. We have delivered for Wales and will go on delivering for Wales. We will continue to respond to the coronavirus pandemic and deliver the largest vaccination programme Wales has ever seen, while ensuring our NHS is protected, our economy has a platform on which to rebuild and the people and families most severely affected can draw on our support.