A social care advocate has cautioned that small residential care facilities throughout Gwent represent invaluable community assets that the country cannot afford to see disappear.

Mario Kreft, who leads Care Forum Wales, is urging the Welsh administration to protect independent care establishments, particularly as proposals for a National Care Service move forward.

His recognition in Care Home Professional magazine’s 2026 Power List arrives at a critical juncture, with the former arguing that locally-connected care homes perfectly embody the kind of enterprises the incoming Plaid Cymru administration has pledged to back.

Mr Kreft stated that the new Plaid administration in Cardiff presents a chance for a fresh start to showcase the outstanding contribution made by small and local enterprises that form the foundation of social care provision throughout Wales.

He noted that care homes in Wales typically accommodate 40 residents, and the overwhelming majority are operated by individuals and families who reside within the same neighbourhoods they serve.

He stressed the crucial, everyday role these facilities play in supporting healthcare systems and communities right across Wales.

Mr Kreft observed that these committed individuals take pride in residing within and serving their own communities, generating employment opportunities and delivering essential services that the NHS would be unable to operate without.

He described them as family-owned Welsh enterprises, expressing optimism that the new Welsh Government has acknowledged the significance and worth of indigenous businesses of this nature.

He cautioned that without adequate backing under a potential National Care Service framework, numerous smaller establishments could become financially unviable and be forced to shut their doors for good.

Mr Kreft pointed out that Wales is fortunate to possess numerous facilities situated near people’s homes within their own communities, eliminating the need for lengthy journeys to see family members.

However, he warned that without appropriate support embedded within a National Care Service structure, these establishments will be unable to continue operating, and once they cease to exist, that loss becomes permanent.

Mr Kreft additionally urged Plaid Cymru representatives in the Senedd to tour their local care homes personally to witness the tangible effects they have on residents, employees and the broader community.