Our work in the Welsh language

Published: 5 July 2023

We’re proud of our commitment to the Welsh language and how we integrate it into our work. This work, by our teams across the UK, enables you to communicate with Ofcom in the language of your choice – Welsh or English.

Our approach

Ofcom treats the Welsh and English languages equally in our work in Wales. When providing a service in Welsh, we aim to make sure the Welsh language is treated no less favourably than the English language. In deciding when to provide a Welsh language service, we apply a consistent decision-making process. If the service in question relates to something that affects, or is relevant to people and businesses in Wales, we will provide a Welsh-language service as standard practice.

We believe our approach makes a positive contribution to the ability of Welsh speakers to engage with communications issues in their chosen language.

Here’s an outline of what we offer to Welsh speakers.

In 2011 the Welsh Language Measure set out that in Wales, the Welsh language should be treated no less favourably than English. Its core principle is that people in Wales should be able to live their lives through the Welsh language if they want to.

As Ofcom is a public body with an office in Cardiff, we must comply with Welsh language legislation (PDF, 360.3 KB). Since 25 January 2017, we’ve been working in partnership with the Welsh Language Commissioner on implementing our Welsh language standards. This legislation sets out how Ofcom must provide and promote services through the Welsh language. Ofcom’s final compliance notice (PDF, 360.3 KB) from the Welsh Language Commissioner carries Ofcom’s full authority, support and approval.

We aim to provide good quality services to everyone at all times, but we accept that things may go wrong. If they do, we understand that you may want to make a complaint to us.

We want to listen to your views so we can learn from any mistakes and put them right.

If you'd like to complain about Ofcom's work in the Welsh language, please complete and submit our online complaints form. This form is only for complaints about our work in the Welsh language. All other complaints need to be made via the complaints area on our website. Complaints made using this form which are not about our work in the Welsh language may not receive a reply or be considered.

If this does not resolve your concerns, please contact the office of the Secretary to the Corporation.

Ofcom’s full complaints procedure