Speech and Language Therapy Team wins Welsh Language Award 

9/10/2025

A Speech and Language Therapy Team has been recognised for their commitment to promoting the Welsh language in healthcare, winning the Welsh Language Award at this year’s Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Achievement Awards. 

The team, who cover Gwynedd and Anglesey, are dedicated to supporting patients and their families to reach their full potential in communication and wellbeing. They recognise that providing services in a patient’s preferred language is key to high-quality care, enabling individuals to understand their treatment and actively contribute to their care plans. 

Staff whose first language is not Welsh are actively encouraged and supported to attend Health Board courses to improve their Welsh skills. Many have developed their proficiency to a level where they can deliver services directly through the medium of Welsh.  

The team also collaborates with Bangor University, where staff are completing Welsh in the Workplace courses to further strengthen their skills. Following a recent audit of Welsh language standards, the team has developed an action plan based on Welsh Government’s “More Than Words…”, ensuring that standards are met while promoting the everyday use of Welsh in the workplace. Staff practise Welsh in meetings, supervision, and discussions, creating an environment that encourages learning and confidence without pressure. 

Carol Owen, Speech & Language Therapist said: “The West Speech and Language Therapy Team demonstrates how language can be a vital part of patient-centred care. Their dedication to supporting patients and families in Welsh, and their commitment to fostering Welsh language skills among staff, makes them a very deserving winner of the Welsh Language Award.” 

Through their leadership, innovation, and passion, the team continues to set a benchmark for inclusive, bilingual care, ensuring that patients across Gwynedd and Anglesey can access services in the language of their choice. 

Nigel Lanham, Northern Operations Manager for category sponsor SGC Security Services, said: “We’re honoured to be sponsoring this year’s Welsh Language Award, as we recognise the vital difference it makes when people can access care in their preferred language. 

“Huge congratulations to the three finalists on their work to make the Welsh language an integral part of the way NHS services are delivered across North Wales.” 

The principal sponsor of the Achievement Awards was Centerprise International. For more than 40 years, Centerprise International has been dedicated to providing innovative, tailored IT solutions customers across both the public and private sectors.  

Jez Nash, Chief Executive Officer of the awards’ principal sponsor Centerprise International, said: “We were again delighted to support the awards and help recognise the outstanding efforts of NHS staff across North Wales. 

“Centerprise International has a long and proud partnership with the NHS in Wales, and tonight’s examples of staff going above and beyond to support both patients and their colleagues was a fantastic reminder of the special work they do. 

“Congratulations again to everyone shortlisted.”