Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has been criticised by Natasha Asghar, Member of the Senedd (MS) for South Wales East, for spending on “woke training sessions,” raising questions about its priorities.
It was revealed that the health board paid £2,400 to Trans Aid Cymru for bespoke staff training, including a “trans inclusion session” and a “male menopause” event.
Ms Asghar said: “The health board’s priorities are completely skewed. Not only are they spending upwards of £3m installing solar panels at the under-pressure Grange Hospital, but now we see they are frittering away money on nonsense woke issues.
“All of this while we have nearly the equivalent of 1-in-4 Welsh people on an NHS waiting list for treatment and more than 8,000 patients facing waits of more than 2 years for help.”
She also raised concerns about nearly £8,000 spent on Stonewall membership.
Stonewall is an organisation which has campaigned for children to have access to puberty blockers.
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board has also increased its number of diversity, equality, and inclusion officers from one in 2023 to four in 2025, with a fifth post still unfilled.
These roles carry salaries of up to £76,000.
Ms Asghar said: “In September alone, more than 1,000 people were waiting more than 12 hours for treatment at Nevill Hall hospital in my region. It is unacceptable.
“All efforts should be on driving down NHS waiting lists and giving patients the best possible outcomes, not wasting money on solar panels, woke training sessions, diversity officers, and membership to divisive organisations.”
A spokesman for Aneurin Bevan University Health Board defended its approach.
The spokesman said: “We are proud to serve one of the most diverse populations in Wales and to employ a workforce that reflects that diversity.
“Creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported is not just the right thing to do – it is fundamental to delivering safe, high-quality care and positive experiences for patients and staff alike.
“Our investment in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is about making sure every patient can access services without barriers and every colleague can thrive.
“These roles are strategic and operational, helping us embed inclusive practices across a large and complex organisation.
“This work strengthens patient safety, improves outcomes, and supports staff wellbeing – all of which are essential to the future of the NHS.
“We are also committed to sustainability and innovation, which is why projects like solar panel installation at the Grange University Hospital are part of our long-term plan to reduce costs and environmental impact.
“Every decision we make is guided by the principle of improving care for our communities, now and for generations to come.
“We continually review our priorities to ensure resources are focused on what matters most which includes reducing waiting times, delivering efficient services, and supporting our staff to provide the best possible care.”