Our response to the Welsh Government Budget 2025/26 

On Tuesday 4 March 2025, the final draft of the Welsh Government’s Budget for 2025-26, which outlines spending plans and priorities for the upcoming year, was approved by the Senedd. 

In response to the Budget, Helen Gravestock, Director of Policy, Communications and Voice at Young Lives vs Cancer, said: 

“While we welcome the much-needed investment in Wales’ health service, this Budget lacks clarity on if or how it will help to address the challenges faced by children and young people with cancer and their families.   

“Young people with cancer and their families face extra costs immediately from diagnosis, with one in ten missing or delaying treatment because of the cost of travel. Action is needed now to support young people and families with these mounting costs and the emotional impact cancer brings, yet it is unclear if any of the funding set out in the Welsh budget will help alleviate the financial and emotional impacts of cancer for young people and their families.  

“Welsh Government strategies and approaches for cancer remain overwhelmingly adult-focused, leaving children and young people without a plan that meets their unique needs. We continue to urge the Welsh Government to establish a Young Cancer Patient Travel Fund, to help young people and families get to treatment, and deliver a strategic approach that recognises the unique needs of young cancer patients (aged 0-25). We stand ready to work as a proactive partner to deliver the change needed.” 

Missed Opportunities 

The Budget includes an additional £600 million in funding for health and care services aimed at reducing waiting times and improving mental health provision. While this is a welcome step, there is no specific reference to if and how this funding will directly support children and young people with cancer.  

If cancer services are to benefit from a funding boost, it must be backed by a strategic approach that meets young cancer patients’ needs. The Welsh Government’s Cancer Improvement Plan is adult-focused and does not address the distinct needs and experiences of children and young people. Clarity is also needed on whether any ring-fenced funding for mental health services (maintained at over £820 million in this budget) will help provide support for young cancer patients’ emotional wellbeing.  

Young Lives vs Cancer’s research shows that children and young people with cancer in Wales face average monthly travel costs of around £280, among the highest in the UK. Yet only 20% report receiving financial support that covers the costs of this travel. A Young Cancer Patient Travel Fund, which is estimated to cost around £420,000 annually in Wales, would make a significant difference in ensuring no child, young person or their family struggles with these financial costs or makes difficult choices such as missing treatment because of them. 

Young Lives vs Cancer remains committed to working with the Welsh Government and partners to ensure children and young people with cancer receive the support they need and deserve. 

What was in the Budget that might impact children and young people with cancer?