Report highlights residents concerns over life in Powys

Concerns over transport, healthcare and the loss of local services have been highlighted by Powys residents as Newtown and Welshpool face potential changes to the way health services are provided in north Powys.

A major new report from Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) has found that while people value living in their communities, there are growing concerns over whether the services and support they rely on will still be available in the future.

The findings come at a significant time for Newtown, Welshpool and surrounding communities, with the future shape of health services in north Powys currently under consideration.

Transport and connectivity emerged as a recurring concern in the PAVO research, with poor access affecting people's ability to reach healthcare, work, education, shops and social activities.

That issue is particularly important in rural north Powys, where changes to where health services are delivered could mean some patients having to travel further for treatment.

Community transport was also highlighted as an important lifeline for people needing to attend medical appointments or reach shops and social activities, but providers are themselves facing funding pressures and difficulties recruiting volunteer drivers.

A total of 1,232 people responded to PAVO's Powys-wide survey, while 574 attended 18 roadshow and Community Conversation events. Another 510 people took part in follow-up focus groups.

PAVO Chief Executive Clair Swales said: “The findings give us a substantial evidence base and a clear picture of how people feel about their communities, the issues that matter most to them, and where improvements are needed.”

She said the reliance on community transport demonstrated the connection between transport and access to other essential services.

“We know that many people rely on community transport to do their weekly shopping, attend health appointments and take part in social activities.

“At the same time, community transport providers are facing funding pressures and difficulties finding volunteer drivers.

“The challenge now is how we support these vital community services to remain sustainable, so people can continue to access the services and opportunities they need.”

Healthcare concerns identified during the project included health and social care, primary care, mental health and dentistry.

PAVO said these were not problems communities could solve on their own and would require action involving public bodies and other organisations.

The findings add another dimension to the debate over the future of health provision in north Powys, including services currently provided from Newtown and Welshpool hospitals.

They also highlight the potential importance of transport when decisions are made about concentrating services in particular locations, especially for people living in smaller communities surrounding the two towns.

Ms Swales said: “The report makes clear that communities cannot tackle every issue alone. Challenges around health and social care, primary care, mental health, dentistry and transport require collaborative action from statutory bodies and other partners.”

The Community Conversations project did result in 18 practical projects being developed across Powys. In north Powys these included volunteer awareness events in Llanfyllin, with small amounts of funding provided to help communities turn ideas into action.

“These projects show what can happen when people are given the opportunity, support and a relatively small amount of funding to turn their ideas into action,” Ms Swales said.

PAVO has now committed further funding to build on work started through Community Conversations.

Ms Swales added: “If communities are to play a greater role in shaping local services and finding local solutions, continued investment in Powys’ community and voluntary sectors will be vital.”

The Community Conversations project was launched in 2025 and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with support from Powys County Council.

The full report can be read here: https://www.pavo.org.uk/news/community-conversations-what-you-told-us/