Thank you very much for writing to me about the meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Pro-Life Group. As this Group is based in the UK Parliament rather than the Welsh Parliament, it may be worthwhile if you contact your local MP regarding attendance.
Ensuring that there is sufficient support for the women facing the many challenges and uncertainties of pregnancy is very important for all couples and families. This is particularly important for women experiencing unplanned pregnancies as they may require additional support in the management of their pregnancies.
I agree that we must ensure the best possible pregnancy care is available across the United Kingdom. In July 2019, the Welsh Government announced its five-year plan for maternity care in Wales, emphasising the need to deliver high quality and safe services across all stages of pregnancy. However, given the impact of COVID-19 on maternity care, it is vital that this plan is refreshed.
Furthermore, while the Welsh Government also promised to provide better outcomes for women and their families with, or at risk of, mental health problems through its mental health strategy, we believe that fundamental to the enhancement of services is fully understanding both need and staffing. There is also a distinct lack of data, and the real challenges of recruiting staff and providing professional development for staff is vital to overcome before the service is sustainable, efficient and effective.
We must also, as a matter of urgency, explore the expansion of psychological treatments, such as talking therapies, to ensure that parents can be signposted to support services at the earliest opportunity.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.