I recently visited Midlands Air Ambulance Charity as it celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Operating and funding three air ambulances across six counties, they provide vital emergency care to communities including the Forest of Dean. I know many people across the Forest have been impacted by their life-saving work and understand first-hand just how important the Midlands Air Ambulance is. It was great to meet with Julian, Nicole and Aiden, and to see the impressive pr

A huge thank you to everyone who has signed the petition so far! Let's keep the momentum going. Please feel free to share and display the attached poster—it's fantastic to see so many businesses across Cinderford and the surrounding area already showing their support. I spent time in Cinderford this week speaking with parents, students and local residents, and the message was clear: we must do everything we can to protect the future of Forest High School. Please continue to s

Pleased to announce the WINNER of the 2026 Fish and Chip Awards in the Forest of Dean is… FRYDAY’S in Bream Voted for by constituents! I had the pleasure of presenting the award this evening and sampling their brilliant fish and chips myself. Huge congratulations to the whole team at Fryday’s for this well‑deserved recognition. If you haven’t been yet, pop in and support a fantastic local business!

It was great to visit Greenwood’s Nursery in Coalway last week and see first-hand the work they do to support children and families across the Forest of Dean, including those with SEND needs. I was particularly interested to learn more about the nursery’s SEND offer and its involvement in the ELSEC programme, which aims to improve the early identification, intervention and support available to children with speech, language and communication needs. It was really insightful to

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fc.org%2FZcpqS7fb2z%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHlVKvuuDg7QfmPLr9Z-_HO-jffVJz5Y0PV3Ks13wMDO_-mWhjNoR6-v1t8h8_aem_bLDKsSd1fQUrc2ez8lWAJw&h=AUCa0weJwLCG-H02kZjw0IS5rQfWVKyy6Ma-A-S51hduR5icgBRrqaEo1-wOJToSxsCeh8lB4ybL4fruCOJoHjpPDbNFptzOEg3WkdLQ8p0Gp6hP4SqzBVhPbqXufE00YpYNF8_rZ_DfeBuK&__tn__=%2CmH-R&c[0]=AUDtILy_2rdt6O4rxsZcZw_383qY3LasMxCrS5l_CFO4zS1gGdnk3Gp26De09MQpOVUFoW5_k928hZQtcHdExwURJaFd

The plan is working. We are securing our borders. Net migration = down Asylum hotel use = down Small boats arriving = down Reform talk. Labour delivers.

National Fish & Chip Day is coming up on 5th June, and I’m launching a competition to find the very best fish & chip shop in the Forest of Dean! Our local chippies are at the heart of our communities — serving great food, supporting local jobs, and bringing people together week after week. So now it’s over to you! Nominate your favourite chip shop for the chance to win the title of “Best Fish & Chips in the Forest of Dean” this National Fish & Chip Day. Whether it’s for the c

I hear from parents and families across the Forest of Dean all the time about how difficult it can be to keep up with the online world our children are growing up in. That’s why the Information Commissioner’s Office has launched a really useful new campaign called “Switched on to Privacy” — helping parents and carers have simple conversations with children about staying safe online. The advice focuses on three easy steps: Chat — have regular conversations about online privacy

I recently met Laura from the James Hopkins Trust and heard more about the incredible work they do supporting life-limited young children and their families across Gloucestershire, including many here in the Forest of Dean. The care and respite they provide is a lifeline for families facing some of the toughest circumstances imaginable. Their work goes far beyond medical support—helping create moments of joy, dignity and compassion for both children and parents. Charities lik

It was great to visit Restorative Gloucestershire this week and meet Julie and the team to hear more about the incredible work they are doing to support victims across Gloucestershire. Restorative Justice gives victims the opportunity to explain to offenders the real impact of their crime, ask questions, and have their voices heard. It also helps offenders understand the consequences of their actions, take responsibility, and make amends. Restorative Mediation similarly gives

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the emergency ambulance call centre in Bristol and see firsthand the incredible work being done there. Spending time alongside staff, listening to live calls and experiencing the pace and pressure of the job was eye-opening. It’s an incredibly fast-moving, high-pressure environment where decisions are made in seconds and every moment counts. Sitting with the team gave me a real hands-on understanding of the challenges they face every

Congratulations to Cheryl on opening Lavender Stone Florist at Harts Barn this Saturday! I was really pleased to cut the ribbon and support Cheryl as she starts her new business. The shop is in Unit 8 at Harts Barn and looks lovely. Wishing Cheryl every success with Lavender Stone Florist. Thank you for inviting me to be part of such a special occasion!

5,232 renters in the Forest of Dean are getting more rights today! • No more bidding wars. It will be illegal to request, encourage or accept offers above the set price. • Landlords will not be able to ask for more than one month’s rent upfront. • No more “no-fault” evictions. All evictions will require valid grounds. • An end to fixed-term tenancies. All tenancies will default to being a monthly rolling contract. • More rights for your pets. Landlords must consider pet reque

It was great to visit Brody’s Trust and spend time with Nikki and the team yesterday, hearing first-hand about the important work they are doing to support children with special educational needs and their families. All the work they’ve done to transform their space is super impressive, particularly the sensory room—creating a space where children can explore, regulate and feel comfortable. I was also shown the improvements made to their kitchen to ensure inclusivity and acce

My team and I, alongside SENDIASS, are holding more advice sessions in May, with a couple of 1:1 slots available for parent carers, families, or individuals seeking support, guidance, and advice. Please see the details below: Date: Wednesday, 20th May Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm Where: Coleford If you would like to book an appointment, please email my office at: matt.bishop.mp@parliament.uk

I was grateful to attend the dedication of the Imjin Veterans’ Memorial yesterday at the Cyril Hart Arboretum at Speech House, marking the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Imjin River. It was an honour to lay a wreath in recognition of those who served during the Korean War, including fifteen individuals with links to the Forest of Dean.

Wow. The final debate, marking the completion of Mock Parliament 2026, took place last night at the District Council Chamber, bringing together students from all six secondary schools across the Forest of Dean. The event was a huge success, and every student involved should be immensely proud of what they have achieved—as I certainly am. From our first session together months ago to the confidence on display in the final debate, these students have truly excelled and shown th

Last weekend, I hosted a Coffee Morning in Redmarley. A big thank you to all the constituents who attended and came ready to discuss a wide range of important issues. Our conversations covered everything from local planning and development concerns to broader national matters. These events are really valuable—they give me the chance to hear directly from residents about what matters most and help ensure I’m representing our community as effectively as possible. Thanks to ever