Julie Morgan, Welsh deputy minister for social services, has launched a consultation on improving the experiences of those using health and social care services.

The consultation is seeking responses to proposed legislation enabling direct payments for adults eligible for Continuing Healthcare to allow them to decide how, when and by whom their care needs are met.

Proposed legislation supporting the commitment to eliminate profit from the care of children looked after is also included.

This commitment is part of the cooperation agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru. The aim is for the future care of children in Wales to be provided by public sector, charitable or not-for-profit organisations.

The consultation also includes considerations on whether the duties to report children and adults at risk of harm, abuse or neglect should be expanded to apply directly to individuals within relevant bodies; and changes to improve how Social Care Wales supports and regulates the social care workforce and how Care Inspectorate Wales regulates and inspects services.

Ms Morgan said: "I am determined that we continue to improve the quality of experience for everyone who uses our social care services. This consultation sets out how our proposals will help us to deliver our wider vision for the care and support available to families, children and young people and will further strengthen the voice and control of disabled and seriously ill adults, and their carers, better supporting people to maintain their independence. I look forward to engaging with all those who have an interest in continuing to improve our health and social care system."

Chief Social Care Officer for Wales, Albert Heaney said: "We want to listen to the voices of those using social care services in Wales so we can shape legislation and services around their care and support needs. The responses to this consultation will help us strengthen care and support, ensuring the voice of our citizens, care experienced young people and their carers is heard.

“By working together we can improve our health and social care system for everyone now and in the future and better support people to maintain their independence.