Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTMUHB) recently announced a series of engagement events designed to “shape the future of diabetes care.” While the initiative is a welcome step toward listening to patients, a glance at the schedule reveals a frustratingly familiar pattern: if you don’t live in Pontypridd, you might be out of luck.
Of the three planned sessions in March, two are being held physically at the YMA in Pontypridd. For residents in Aberdare, Mountain Ash, or Hirwaun, this presents a significant hurdle to having their voices heard.
The “Cynon Gap” in Healthcare Planning
Diabetes doesn’t stop at the mountain’s edge. Living with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes is a 24/7 commitment that requires local, accessible support. However, by centering physical meetings only in Pontypridd, the Health Board is inadvertently creating the very “barriers” they claim to want to discuss.
For many in the Cynon Valley, getting to Pontypridd for a 2:00 PM meeting on a Monday or a Saturday morning involves:
- Navigating unreliable public transport links.
- Incurring travel costs during a cost-of-living crisis.
- Balancing work or caregiving duties that don’t allow for a cross-valley commute.
Why Local Voices Matter
The Cynon Valley has its own unique health profile and challenges. Whether it’s the availability of specialist clinics at Prince Charles Hospital or the ease of getting a GP appointment in Aberdare, our experiences are distinct from those in Pontypridd or Bridgend.
The Health Board’s goal is to “Influence how diabetes care is delivered across our region.” But how can they truly represent the region if the people of the Cynon Valley aren’t given a local seat at the table?
“Your insight is invaluable,” the Health Board states. But for that insight to be shared, the Board needs to meet patients where they are—not just where it’s convenient for the organizers.
How to Get Involved (From a Distance)
While we wait for the Health Board to realize that the Cynon Valley needs its own session, residents are encouraged to sign up for the MS Teams session. It is the only way to ensure Aberdare and the surrounding areas aren’t silenced.
Event Schedule:
- Thursday 5 March: 18:00 – 20:00 (MS Teams – Online)
- Saturday 7 March: 10:00 – 12:00 (YMA, Pontypridd)
- Monday 16 March: 14:00 – 16:00 (YMA, Pontypridd)
23 YEARS IN POWER – AND WE’RE STILL LOSING SERVICES in Cynon Valley
Related Posts
Diabetes Week 2025: Let’s talk about annual diabetes health checks, living well and planning for pregnancy with diabetes
Diabetes UK Cymru demands Welsh Government action as pandemic hits diabetes care hard
See diabetes differently this Diabetes Week 10-16 June