Group will advise on the use of technology in public-service delivery
The Welsh Government has set up a panel of external experts to advise on how public services could be improved via the use of digital technologies.
The creation of the panel was led by Lee Waters, the assembly member for Llanelli who, according to the government, has “a keen interest in the potential of technology across the public sector and Wales more generally”.
He will be joined by a panel of six external experts, including Sally Meecham, who previously worked as chief operating officer of the Government Digital Service, and Paul Matthews, the CEO of Monmouthshire Council – which is working with five tech start-ups via the government’s £20m GovTech Catalyst funding programme.
Related content
- Welsh Government launches ‘innovation directory’ resource for policymakers
- Ambulance data-sharing and smart speakers for carers receive chunk of £5m Welsh innovation fund
- Welsh government seeks supplier for £180m digital services framework
The panel will work to help “shape the next steps towards improving” the use of digital in the delivery of citizen services. It will also have a remit to offer “external advice and challenge for the Welsh public sector”.
Julie James, leader of the house with responsibility for digital, said: “The last two decades have seen huge changes in the way digital technology has touched our lives. From online banking to the provision of news, from the growth of social media to shopping and healthcare, the way we work and play continues to be transformed.”
She added: “As a Welsh Government it is crucial we are using our devolved powers to support our communities, our businesses and our public services to react, to adapt and to take advantage of new opportunities. I am pleased to establish this panel which will provide advice and challenge public services.”
The other members of the panel are: Anne Marie Cunningham, a GP and campaigner for on healthcare issues; Victoria Ford, director at transformation specialist Perago-Wales; Mark Wardle, chair of the NHS Wales Technical Standards Board; and Dominic Campbell, founder and CEO of FutureGov.
