The Senedd has approved the Welsh Government's Second Supplementary Budget for 2024-2025, a £789 million funding package aimed at substantial investments across various sectors.
Published in February, the budget received final approval today.
The budget includes significant allocations delivered throughout the year:
- Public Sector Pay Rises: £264 million announced in September.
- NHS Improvements: £108 million, including £50 million to reduce the longest waiting times by March 2025.
- School Standards and Education: £63.5 million to enhance school standards and support education at all levels.
- School and College Infrastructure: £53.5 million for repairs and digital improvements.
- Social Housing: £10 million through the Social Housing Grant.
Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford commented:
“We welcome the Senedd's approval of this crucial budget. This investment strengthens the services that matter most to the people of Wales. The extra funding is supporting improvements in the NHS and schools; has provided pay increases for public sector workers and is helping to build more affordable homes for Welsh families.”
The Second Supplementary Budget also includes significant funding for rail and sustainable travel improvements and road safety. A further £10 million will be committed to local authorities, as part of emergency support to ensure that councils can repair damage that has been caused by storms over the winter.
This budget provides the essential foundation for the Welsh Government's financial planning for 2025-2026, ensuring continued investment in critical areas.
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