This week is Organ Donation Week, and I'd like to encourage as many of you as I can to click the link below. More than 8,700 people across the UK are waiting for a lifesaving transplant. If you would accept a lifesaving organ, please consider saying yes to becoming an organ donor and, importantly, talk to your loved ones about your decision. It takes just two minutes to confirm your decision, and it could help save up to nine lives. Please take a moment to find out more and s

Sepsis is a medical emergency that affects over 245,000 people every year in the UK. But knowing the signs–and acting fast–can save lives. If you’re worried about someone right now, use the UK Sepsis Trust’s Sepsis Assessment Tool for guidance on what to do next You can find it here: https://sepsis-assessment.onlinegp.co/

Today is 999 Day, and an opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone who works and volunteers across our emergency services. From paramedics and firefighters to police officers, NHS staff and volunteers, millions of people work tirelessly to keep us safe and support our communities. Thank you for everything you do, today and every day.

Today we remember all those killed in the 9/11 attacks, including 67 British nationals. 25 years on, the UK stands with the United States in remembrance, solidarity and shared resolve. We will never forget.

No family should be priced out by uniform costs. I know it can be difficult to make money stretch to cover the cost of branded uniforms. I speak to families and parent carers all the time, and I hear how challenging it can be to make it all work within the family budget. That's why Labour is cracking down on school uniform costs and capping the number of branded items parents have to buy.

I welcome the Government’s decision to end the early release scheme for certain serious offenders. Including those responsible for the appalling killing of PC Harper. I wrote to the Prime Minister recently regarding the early release scheme, specifically asking for the prevention of releasing those responsible for PC Harper’s death early. I am pleased this was acted upon, and the right decision was made. Decisions like these send a clear message to our police force that we va

Yesterday, I asked the Prime Minister whether our police officers have the Government's backing, including the proper funding they need to keep our communities safe. I was pleased to hear his clear recognition of those who put themselves at risk to protect us. Having served alongside them, I know the courage and dedication our officers show every day. They deserve our full support, and I’ll continue to champion it.

Since being elected, I’ve heard from residents across the Forest of Dean who’ve been affected by cowboy builders. Getting work done to your home should be straightforward. Too many of you have faced the devastating consequences of rogue operators leaving their homes unsafe or disappearing with upfront payments before completing the work. After calling for more action to protect local people, I’m pleased the Government is taking action with: A new Trading Standards approved co

I've heard time and time again from constituents in the Forest of Dean about how frustrating it is to hold a bus pass that doesn't work when you actually need it. Whether it's getting to work, college, or a hospital appointment, a disabled bus pass should be an enabler, not a barrier. This change means 6,082 disabled people in Gloucestershire will finally have unlimited free bus travel 24/7.

I am pleased the Government is taking action to give local communities more say over our high streets. New plans will give councils greater control over new vape shops, betting shops and adult gaming centres, while giving them more powers to tackle problem premises and businesses linked to crime. For the Forest of Dean, this means more power for local councils and communities to shape our town centres and support the good local businesses that keep them thriving. Our high str

I have written to the Prime Minister in support of Maggie Blyth and 49 other policing and law enforcement leaders, calling for the government to do three things: 1. Examine every lawful option available to determine whether the earlier release of those responsible for PC Andrew Harper's death can be prevented. 2. Establish an additional public protection safeguard in cases involving the most serious offenders whenever future changes to sentencing on release arrangements are c

I want to recognise that while Results Day can be a day of celebration, it can also be one of worry, stress and anxiety. Uncertainty can be a difficult one to navigate. To help manage this tricky time, there are organisations and professionals available to support you: UCAS — for advice on your university options, including Clearing and what to do if you don't get the grades you were hoping for. UCAS: 0371 468 0 468 https://www.ucas.com/.../clearing-and.../who-to-contact Your

Tomorrow is A-Level Results Day, and I know many of you—students, parents, family and friends—may be feeling anxious. Just in case you need to consider Plan B, take a look at the video below to familiarise yourself with how UCAS Clearing works and how you can use it to find the university place that’s right for you. Results Day information and preparation guidance (including what to expect tomorrow and tips for students): A level results day

I recently chaired the second meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Emotional Support for Parent Carers of Seriously Ill and Disabled Children, continuing my support for the important work of Harry's Pals and the families at the heart of its campaign. We heard powerful contributions highlighting the urgent need for better mental health support for parent carers. Harry's Pals has been leading the call for parents to be offered free specialised counselling when

I'm pleased that this week we've announced a number of decisions that will help people with the cost of living and make it that little bit easier for businesses across the Forest of Dean. VAT removed from electricity bills from this October. A 20% cut in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues next year, helping the businesses at the heart of our communities. A £2 cap on bus fares across England from January 2027, alongside free bus travel for children this Au

One of the first things I did since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister, was to write to him regarding the provisions in the Sentencing Act that allow for the early release of prisoners. I am pleased, and relieved, that the Prime Minister is reconsidering this part of the Act. We cannot allow offenders convicted of crimes against women and girls—including rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse, and child abuse—to be released early. It was for these reasons that I abstained on th

If you're facing financial hardship, you may be able to get some help through the Government's new Crisis and Resilience Fund. This support may be available if you're: •Struggling to afford food or other essentials. •Finding it difficult to pay your energy or water bills. •Facing an unexpected emergency or financial crisis. •Worried about keeping your home warm or safe. •In need of short-term support to get back on your feet. Find out more about the fund here: https://www.gov

This Alcohol Awareness Week, I’m supporting Community Alcohol Partnerships and their vital work reducing alcohol harm among young people. Their research tackles a key issue: parents often believe supplying alcohol helps children drink responsibly. Research shows the opposite is true. Let’s change the norm and champion alcohol-free childhoods.