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Starting Well, Living Well | Director of Public Health Annual Report 2024 - 2025

Children Playing

This year’s report from Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB’s Director of Public Health focusses on the early years of life as a critical period for laying the foundations for lifelong health.

Across our region, the health board is working with partners, delivering innovative work to support families, reduce inequities, and improve outcomes.

Philp Daniels Director of Public Health said: “The evidence for investing in the early years is clear, delivering long-term health and economic benefits. By embedding early years as a strategic priority and building on the excellent work already underway, we can give more children in CTM a better start and improve long-term health outcomes across the region.”

The report highlights three key areas where we're working together to improve outcomes for children:

  • Preconception and the First 1000 Days: Good maternal health and pregnancy planning are vital. In Rhondda Cynon Taf, the Magu Project provides an integrated care pathway for pregnant women and families, helping parents build resilience and keeping families together. Early outcomes show a 22% reduction in babies under 1 year old entering care and improved parental wellbeing.
  • Improving and Protecting Health: Healthy weight, oral health, and vaccination are priorities. In Bridgend, the Flying Start Sarn programme demonstrates a whole-setting approach, integrating health visitors, midwives, dietitians, and speech therapists. This collaborative model promotes breastfeeding, supervised toothbrushing, and emotional wellbeing, ensuring children are ready for school.
  • Wider Determinants: Tackling poverty and supporting school readiness are essential. In Merthyr Tydfil, St David’s Baby Bank shows the power of community action, providing clothing and essentials to families in need. Since its launch, the service has supported over 425 families, reducing hardship and promoting dignity.

Read the full report here: Director of Public Health Report 2024-2025

12/12/2025