May 22, 2026 - 122 views
A week-long programme highlighting Welsh language healthcare, mental health, dementia awareness and social care careers will take centre stage at this year’s Urdd Eisteddfod Ynys Môn 2026.
The Welsh Government has unveiled details of its “More than just words” programme, which will run throughout the festival from Saturday 23 May until Friday 29 May.
The initiative – known in Welsh as “Mwy na geiriau” – aims to promote the importance of using the Welsh language in health and care services, while also giving festival-goers opportunities to learn more about wellbeing, careers and support services across Wales.
A wide range of organisations will take part during the week, including Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Public Health Wales, Careers Wales, Mind, Alzheimer’s Society and North Wales Police.
Each day of the Eisteddfod will focus on a different theme, with sessions and workshops designed to engage children, young people, families and professionals.
Learners’ Day on Saturday will spotlight opportunities to learn Welsh and develop careers in healthcare and social care, with presentations from the National Centre for Learning Welsh and sessions led by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.
Sunday’s programme will focus on the national “More than just words” strategy itself, exploring how Welsh language services can improve patient experiences across the NHS and care sector.
Careers in social care will be the focus on Monday, with support from Health Education and Improvement Wales and the Unpaid Young Carers Trust, alongside sessions aimed at encouraging more people to consider careers in care.
Tuesday’s public health programme will include discussions on vaccinations, school immunisation services, mental health support for young people and the promotion of the new NHS Wales app. Students from Coleg Llandrillo Menai will also feature in a film highlighting Welsh-medium learning and support.
Wednesday will centre on dementia awareness and kindness, including sessions from the Alzheimer’s Society, dementia specialists, and North Wales Police, which will discuss how officers support people living with dementia in the community.
Mental health and wellbeing take priority on Thursday, with workshops delivered by Mind, CALL and Meddwl.org, including mindfulness sessions and support for anxiety and confidence.
The week concludes on Friday with discussions centred on patient voice and people’s experiences of NHS and care services, led by Llais and young carers groups.
Throughout the week, visitors will also be able to take part in interactive activities including story sessions, film screenings and a dementia bike experience.
The Urdd Eisteddfod is Europe’s largest youth festival and one of the most significant cultural events in Wales, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Organisers say the programme reflects growing efforts to strengthen Welsh-language provision in public services while supporting health and wellbeing in communities across North Wales and beyond.
