STUDENTS on Allied Health degree courses at Wrexham University are to undertake new Welsh language work-based learning modules, in order for them to be able to communicate with patients in their first language while on placement.

The modules were officially launched at the National Eisteddfod this week.

These modules will enable those studying on the Nutrition and Dietetics; Occupational Therapy; Operating Department Practice; Paramedic Science; Physiotherapy; and Speech and Language Therapy degree courses to be able to communicate with and support patients and colleagues through the medium of Welsh, while on placement.

Students undertaking the modules will be supported by Practice Educators through the medium of Welsh. The modules will start to be delivered from this October.

Elen Mai Nefydd, Head of Welsh Medium Academic Development at Wrexham University, said: “We are extremely proud to have launched our Allied Health Welsh language work-based learning modules at the National Eisteddfod this week – it seemed an incredibly fitting way to announce this development.

“As an institution, we are thrilled to be working alongside and responding to the needs of our local health board.

"The addition of the Welsh medium work-based learning modules are not only beneficial for our students’ development but also for patients in North Wales, whose first language is Welsh.

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“Feedback from patients is that being able to communicate with healthcare professionals in their first language makes a huge difference to their overall experience.”

Nesta McCluskey, Clinical Director of Allied Health Professionals at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “We are pleased to be working with the University to provide Welsh language work-based learning modules to Allied Health degree students, who are the future healthcare professionals of Wales.

“As a health board, we have a clear vision that everyone who comes into contact with our services should be treated with respect and dignity, and receive a safe and responsive service that is accessible in their language of choice, which is why we are pleased to be working alongside the University to provide these modules to Allied Health students.”