I recently visited Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service ( GDASS ) and had the opportunity to spend time with Heather and Tessa, hearing more about their incredible work. They, along with the wider team, do truly essential work supporting victims who are experiencing, or have experienced, domestic abuse. Across the Forest of Dean, they provide not just practical help and advice, but also understanding, reassurance, and a vital source of support at incredibly difficul

It was brilliant to welcome Hartpury University and Hartpury College to Parliament this week for an inspiring event on women in sport. I was proud to sponsor this important discussion, which brought together voices from across sport, politics, and the wider sector. The focus was on how we can do more to create equal opportunities for women, from driving investment to raising the profile of women’s sport. It was especially powerful to hear Zoe Stratford and Sam Monaghan share

On Thursday, I was pleased to host my third SEND event here in the Forest of Dean, bringing together parent carers, families, charities, local organisations and professionals to discuss the Government’s proposed SEND reforms. It was really valuable to hear lived experiences directly from families, alongside those working to support them every day. Concerns raised included access to services, mental health support, part-time timetables, and the need for clearer communication a

Last week I launched a Mock Parliament, bringing together students from all six of our secondary schools. It was fantastic to see young people exploring how Parliament works, debating topics they care about—from AI to climate change—and building confidence to use their voice. We were also joined by the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury (Chief Whip), who held a Q&A with students and explained the role of a whip in government. This was the fir

Following recent correspondence from the Police and Crime Commissioner, Chris Nelson, I, Alex McIntyre for Gloucester , and Simon Opher for Stroud have responded in a joint letter, set out in full below. That correspondence related to proposals for increased police precept flexibility—which would be funded through higher council tax—and a one-off Home Office grant for IT systems. At a time when residents across Gloucestershire continue to face cost-of-living pressures, we do

This morning, I attended a really important meeting to discuss the reality of the hospitality sector in the Forest of Dean and beyond. Alongside Phil at The Farmer's Boy Inn , I met with Wayne Childes from The King’s Arms, Newent; Wayne Edge from Flamin Edges at The Yew Tree , Longhope; Mark Terry-Lush from the Wye Valley & Forest of Dean Tourism Board; and Jonathan Lane, the District Council’s Cabinet Member for the Economy. The hospitality sector plays a vital role in commu

MP SEND Event Parent carers, educators, and SEND professionals are invited to my third SEND Event, this time bringing parent carers together with educators, support services and professionals to drive meaningful, practical improvements that matter. The evening will include professionals offering support for parent carers, alongside updates from me on government progress and a continued commitment to provide tangible support and improvements. 26th February 6pm–8pm Central Fore

UK Parliament Week is just around the corner! I’m encouraging all our local schools to get involved in UK Parliament Week 2025 (24th–30th November). This is a great opportunity to access a wealth of resources that help young people understand what Parliament does and how they can make their voices heard. Last year, Forest of Dean schools engaged brilliantly—we were the top constituency in the South West and ranked among the top 25 in the whole country! This year, we’re alread

I want to hear from you about the issues that matter most to our communities in the Forest of Dean. Take a few minutes to fill out this...

My team of caseworkers and I have worked alongside Newport Bus Company to secure an improved Bus 72 route for constituents across the...

Today is Back British Farming Day, and an opportunity to thank the many farmers who continue to ensure British farming thrives within the...

Today, we come together as a community—to raise awareness, to listen, and to speak openly about suicide. We are so lucky to have a...

Labour is committed to keeping our streets safe. That’s why we’re ensuring every area in the Forest of Dean has a named local police...

Have you been diagnosed with osteoporosis? Your voice can help shape national policy. As Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group...

Gloucestershire will receive up to £11.1 million over five years to provide tailored employment support for disabled people. Part of the...

The Persimmon Charitable has released two grants of £50,000 available for charities working with 14 to 25-year-olds. If your charity...

Too many men face barriers when it comes to accessing the care and support they need —whether it's for physical health, mental...

I have written to Dr John Martin, Chief Executive of South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust , to raise my concerns about...

Patients across our region – including here in the Forest of Dean – will soon benefit from faster, better emergency care. 71 brand-new...