What is social care, and what we’re hearing about it

New podcast episode explores what is social care, and what we’re hearing about it

We’re continuing the conversation about the future of health and social care in Wales with episode four of our video podcast series In Conversation With…  

In this latest episode, Llais Chief Executive Alyson Thomas is joined by Sarah McCarty, Chief Executive of Social Care Wales. 

Together, they explore what social care is, who it supports, and how it fits into communities across Wales.  

The conversation also discusses:  

• The role of Social Care Wales in workforce development, regulation, and service improvement 

• Why voice, control, and “what matters” conversations are central to care 

• The importance of kindness, dignity, and respect in people’s experiences 

• Why services need to feel joined up around the individual 

• Supporting unpaid carers and recognising their role 

• Pressures on the social care workforce and the importance of recognition 

• Welsh language provision and the active offer in care settings 

• Accountability, confidence, and improving services when things go wrong 

Alongside this, the episode reflects what Llais has heard through the Health and Social Care We Want project, including how much people value kindness, dignity, respect, joined-up services, and feeling genuinely heard. 

Why Listen 

This episode is ideal for anyone interested in social care in Wales. Public services, workforce development, care reform, or how lived experience can help shape better, more responsive support for people and communities. 

The series explores how listening to people’s experiences can help shape a better future for health and, in particular, social care in Wales.