Wales: BASW Cymru Director congratulates new First Minister of Wales and calls for action for change

BASW Cymru’s National Director, Prof. Sam Baron, has congratulated Eluned Morgan MS on not only becoming the new First Minister of Wales, but also being the first woman to do so. 

BASW Cymru (British Association of Social Workers), is the largest professional membership organisation for social work in Wales and is a member of the larger BASW family across the UK.  As the voice for social work and social workers, it represents the profession in addition to providing campaigning, career development opportunities, practice resources, advice, and representation. 

The new First Minister, subject to final approval from His Majesty the King, was confirmed in post today (Tuesday 6 August) when the Senedd was recalled during the summer recess. 

With no other candidates in the race to become the new leader of the Welsh Labour Party and the next First Minister, following the resignation of the former First Minister, Vaughan Gething MS, Eluned Morgan was confirmed into post with no manifesto.

Speaking about today’s confirmation, BASW Cymru National Director, Prof. Sam Baron, said:

“It would be wonderful to congratulate the new First Minister on her confirmation into the role without having to mention her gender, but there are still many glass ceilings that remain firmly in place.  This is a real positive step forward for women and politics and one that is welcomed by BASW Cymru.

“With no manifesto ahead of becoming the new Leader of the Welsh Labour Party, and subsequently First Minister, little detail has emerged about her priorities and direction for her new Government. 

“What is clear is that here in Wales we need positive action for change that will be felt in communities across Wales and throughout the generations of its population.  With ministerial experience around health, well-being and social work-related portfolios, I sincerely hope the improvements needed in these areas will be a priority for the First Minister to tackle.

“BASW Cymru remains firmly committed to improving the lives of everybody in Wales and will work with the First Minister and her Government to bring about these improvements.”