The Welsh Language Act 1993 places a duty on the public sector to treat Welsh and English languages equally when providing services to the public. The act also requires every public body providing services to the public in Wales to prepare a Welsh Language Scheme. We recognise that the Welsh language has official status in Wales as enshrined by the Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2011.
This scheme sets out how we will provide those services in Welsh. Two principles underpin our work:
- In Wales, the Welsh language should be treated no less favourably than the English language.
- Persons in Wales should be able to live their lives through the medium of the Welsh language if they choose to do so.
What we’ll do
As a public body, the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) has developed a new Welsh Language Scheme to replace the separate schemes of the organisations that were brought together to create it – Money Advice Service, The Pensions Advisory Service, and Pension Wise.
This scheme sets out how MaPS will put into practice the principles established by the Welsh Language Act that, wherever appropriate and practicable, it will treat the Welsh and English languages equally.
The scheme covers the full range of services and operations in Wales, including direct and commissioned services, partnerships, publications, recruitment and HR processes.
Through www.helpwrarian.org.uk our customers in Wales can access support for their money matters online, on the phone, through WhatsApp and webchat.
When the scheme will be launched
MaPS will consult with the public in Wales from 4 October for eight weeks and will then following any amendments based on feedback and comments, we will submit our scheme to the Welsh Language Commissioner.
The consultation invites all those with an interest in Welsh language provision or MaPS services to provide feedback, thoughts and comments by 5pm on Friday 26 November 2021 via email to YmgynghoriadCynllunIaithGymraeg@maps.org.uk