Climate Change in Wales and its health impact: Who is vulnerable and how?

Abstract In April 2019, Wales declared a climate emergency. Public Health commissioned Impact Assessment (HIA) to be carried out assess the potential impact of Climate Change (CCh) on population and inform key strategic decision makers understand/plan for differential health inequalities impacts that may occur from CCh. A comprehensive mixed-method HIA was conducted over 6 month period in 2019/2020. review peer-reviewed evidence CCh/climate change events groups grey literature direct such as environment, mental wellbeing care settings conducted. 2 stakeholder workshops, qualitative interviews, community profile utilising sources National Survey were also out. All findings analysed, synthesized collated into report. Vulnerability is critical aspect identified range positive negative specific which highlights their vulnerability change. This includes children young people; older coastal rural communities those low incomes. These are often not explicitly highlighted other environmentally focused assessments. The indicated significant across determinants including excess heat/cold; flooding; economy; access services; well-being; resilience. have informed decision-makers prepare CCh plans/policies using an evidence-informed approach particularly address who disproportionately negatively affected. work has demonstrated importance significant, complex policies by mobilising through transparent process, considering vulnerable groups, resulting transferrable learning others.