Since 1999, elections for the Senedd (previously the National Assembly for Wales) have taken place every five years in May. The next Senedd Election is scheduled for Thursday, May 7, 2026.
BASW Cymru has created manifesto 'asks' for the upcoming election, prioritising the social work profession's interests.
A dedicated steering group has been formed to take the manifesto work forward, comprising members from the BASW Cymru National Standing Committee, a local authority consultant social worker, two BASW Cymru staff members, who are qualified social workers, and one non-social worker BASW Cymru staff member who coordinates the group's work. BASW Cymru has also invited other members to contribute. A key part of the manifesto’s development took place at BASW Cymru’s annual conference in March 2025 in Cardiff.
We are currently seeking feedback and comment on our manifesto ‘asks’ from the broader BASW Cymru membership. If you are a BASW Cymru member, you can participate in this process on our online consultation portal.
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The 2026 Senedd Election will mark the most significant changes since devolution in Wales began, including:
- An increase in the number of Members of the Senedd (MSs) from 60 to 96.
- The elimination of first-past-the-post elections for MSs.
- All 96 MSs will be elected via a proportional representation system, with six MSs representing each of the 16 newly established constituencies, which are:
- Bangor Aberconwy Ynys Môn
- Clwyd
- Alyn, Deeside and Wrexham
- Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr
- Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire
- Carmarthenshire
- Swansea West and Gower
- Brecon, Radnor, Neath and Swansea East
- Aberafan Maesteg, Rhondda and Ogmore
- Merthyr Tydfil, Aberdare and Pontypridd
- Blaenau Gwent, Rhymney and Caerphilly
- Monmouthshire and Torfaen
- Newport and Islwyn
- Cardiff East and North
- Cardiff West, South and Penarth
- Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend
For the first time, the Senedd Election will reduce the term of office of those elected from a five-year term to four years.
Other changes that will impact following the 2026 Senedd Election, include:
- All candidates standing for election must be a resident in Wales.
- A defection of an MS to another party is not permitted. An MS would instead have to become an independent MS.
- Independent candidates must disclose any political party membership for full and clear disclosure.
Keep checking this page for updates about our manifesto. If you any any question or queries about the BASW Cymru manifesto work, please email steven.crane-jenkins@basw.co.uk.
