The committee heard evidence from Welsh Government ministers and officials on the pandemic’s impact on children and young people’s health and social services. The health minister said children appeared less likely to become seriously ill with COVID-19, but their role in transmission remained uncertain. Paediatric critical care had capacity and a surge plan, though the Government would need to reassess it as restrictions changed.

Members discussed families’ reluctance to use health services, including health visiting and routine vaccination. Officials said vaccination attendance had begun to recover. They also said the full mental health impact on children was not yet known, but would be a priority in recovery planning. CAMHS capacity was being monitored weekly, crisis services remained available seven days a week, and a review of unexpected deaths had been commissioned to examine whether there was a rise in suicide. Perinatal mental health services continued, although work on planned inpatient provision had been interrupted.

On safeguarding and care, the Deputy Minister expressed concern about a fall in referrals and encouraged vulnerable children to attend school or childcare settings. An expanded definition of vulnerability was due to be published, giving local authorities more discretion to offer places. Officials reported no significant increase in the number of looked-after children, few placement breakdowns and continued monitoring of individual cases. Members also asked about technology for maintaining contact, foster-carer support and residential care. Ministers said about £1.5 million of the £6.3 million hospice allocation had gone to the two children’s hospices.

The committee questioned the absence of the usual children’s rights impact assessments for rapidly introduced legislation. Officials said Wales had not relaxed children’s social care requirements, and assessments were planned for proposed changes in childcare and education. A survey of children was also planned.

Members raised concerns that some childcare providers were unable to access financial support and might close. The Deputy Minister said the Government was exploring a bespoke solution; officials reported growing use of free childcare for critical workers and vulnerable children. Finally, the committee discussed virtual family court hearings, postponed complex cases and arrangements for children to move between separated parents’ households. The meeting ended with thanks to the witnesses before the committee moved into private session.