Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion councils, and Hywel Dda University Health Board, recently unveiled their Maternity and Early Years Strategy 2022-26.

The strategy firmly expresses their dedication to putting children at the heart of high-quality integrated services.

Worked out in partnership with third sector organisations, the Strategy plans to establish combined maternity and early years services for each child across the region.

The goal is to enhance outcomes and experiences for both children and their families by integrating services and early identification of needs.

Speakers were present at the strategy's launch, showcasing ideas on how to transform maternity and early years services to offer seamless and timely assistance to families.

Dr. Iram Siraj OBE, University of Oxford, highlighted the importance of early childhood development, the need for unified services, and early identification of at-risk children.

She also addressed the financial challenges families encounter when seeking affordable childcare.

Amy McNaughton, public health consultant for the First 1000 Days Programme, accentuated the necessity of a public health strategy in helping parents, while Claire Law, director of the Centre for Early Child Development, emphasised the benefits of a place-based approach.

Carmarthenshire County Council's cabinet member for health and social services, Cllr Jane Tremlett said: "It is an honour to witness the launch of a strategy that will provide essential support and opportunities to those in need.

"The conference was filled with remarkable individuals who serve as inspiration for our continued efforts.

"Together, we are creating a community where every family and child can succeed."

The strategy's priorities resonate with the guest speaker's research on early childhood development, the effect of poverty, and inclusive policy formulation.

For more information, the entire Maternity & Early Years Strategy for West Wales can be found online.