It’s been another busy month both in Parliament and across Stourbridge, Brierley Hill and Netherton, and I wanted to share some of the work I’ve been doing.
A major piece of good news for our area has been the launch of the Pride in Place programme, which will bring £20 million of investment to Netherton over the next ten years. This funding has the potential to make a real difference to our communities by supporting local projects, improving public spaces and helping to drive long term regeneration. It is vital that local people are at the heart of shaping how this funding is spent, and I would encourage residents, community groups and organisations to get involved as plans develop.
Another issue I have been working on is the future of the Crystal Gateway Dementia Centre. Following concerns raised by local families and campaigners, I secured an Urgent Question in Parliament to press the Government on the future of dementia services in our communities. For many people living with dementia and their loved ones, these services provide vital support, and I know how deeply valued they are in our community. I raised constituents’ concerns directly with ministers and will continue to make the case for proper consideration of the impact any closure could have on local families.
Alongside this work, I have continued to raise issues affecting our area in Parliament. In recent weeks, I have challenged ministers on the pressures facing the steel industry, including concerns about the impact that proposed tariffs and quotas could have on downstream steel companies and the jobs they support across the Black Country. In Parliament, I also led a number of amendments to the Railways Bill aimed at protecting passengers and staff. These included proposals to safeguard ticket office services by ensuring any changes to staffing or opening hours remain subject to independent consultation, as well as measures to guarantee that all rail fares are available at ticket offices. Too many people, particularly older passengers, disabled people and those without reliable internet access, are being disadvantaged by an increasingly digital railway. I believe rail services must remain accessible, affordable and responsive to the needs of all constituents.
Supporting local businesses remains a key priority for me. Across Stourbridge, Brierley Hill and Netherton, I regularly hear from business owners who are working incredibly hard in the face of rising costs and economic pressures. That’s why I recently signed an Early Day Motion calling for a reduction in VAT for the hospitality sector. The UK currently applies a higher rate of VAT to hospitality businesses than many comparable European countries, placing additional strain on pubs, cafes, restaurants, salons and other local venues. At a time when many businesses are facing rising energy, staffing and operating costs, we need to do more to help them thrive. I look forward to continuing conversations with local businesses about the challenges they face and how we can support them.
I was also delighted to visit King Edward VI College to meet with students and staff and discuss the future of Criminology qualifications. Hearing directly from students about the opportunities the course has created for them reinforced the importance of ensuring young people have access to a broad range of educational pathways. Whether through academic or vocational routes, every young person should have the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. I will continue to seek clarity from ministers on the future of this qualification and advocate for the students who value it so highly.
As always, if there is an issue affecting you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. My team and I are here to help and support you.
