May Highlights

Each month, I try to share a few highlights from what my team and I have been working on. It is just a snapshot, but it reflects a busy period and gives a sense of the range of issues we are dealing with every day on behalf of residents across Newbury and West Berkshire.

The conversations I have with residents continue to shape everything my team and I do, day in and day out. Whether it is concerns about the cost of living, access to NHS services, support for children with SEND, or protecting our local environment, what I hear directly from you drives the work I take forward, both locally and in Parliament. Listening is only the first step; what matters is turning those conversations into action.

In Westminster, the King’s Speech set out the Government’s legislative programme for the year ahead. I attended the Speech and following debates, scrutinising what it means in practice for communities like ours. While there were some welcome commitments, it still falls short of the scale of change many people are crying out for. Too many families are still feeling squeezed by the cost of living, struggling to access NHS services, or waiting to see meaningful improvements in their local area. People want less talk and more delivery.

Alongside this, I have continued my work on the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee, and contributed to debates and questions. I also recently spoke in a debate on youth justice, calling for a more holistic approach that focuses on early intervention and better support for young people.

You can keep up to date with my Westminster activity on Hansard.

Back in the constituency, one issue that has generated a huge response is the planned closure of Thatcham Broadway Post Office. As a Thatcham resident myself, I know how vital these services are. I am working closely with West Berkshire Council and Post Office Ltd to make the strongest possible case for keeping them. If you have not already, please do sign the petition.

I have been working closely with the council on a number of local issues, including the future of the Post Office and feedback on pedestrianisation. I am grateful for their constructive engagement and shared focus on finding practical solutions that reflect what residents want to see. This kind of partnership working is vital to delivering the best outcomes for our communities.

Protecting our environment remains a priority. I recently joined the Paddle Out protest to push for stronger action on water pollution. With trust in water companies at a record low, it is clear that tougher accountability and real change are needed.

My office continues to support residents across a wide range of issues, from housing and pensions to healthcare and connectivity. That has recently included working with local organisations to support a homeless individual in Newbury and raising concerns with Ministers about NHS data transparency following correspondence from constituents.

Some of you may know that I recently picked up a knee injury, which has meant postponing some face-to-face meetings. However, it is very much work as usual, just from home. I am keeping a close eye on proceedings in Westminster and continuing to work hard for Newbury.

As always, if there is an issue affecting you or your community, please do get in touch, my team and I are here to help.