I joined MPs from across the Midlands to press for faster, more reliable east–west rail connections. At a Westminster meeting with Heidi Alexander, I backed calls for track upgrades, additional carriages on overcrowded CrossCountry services and greater local control over rail investment. MPs warned current journey times are holding back growth, with routes slower than comparable links elsewhere. The Midlands cannot be left behind. I highlighted the benefits for Redditch inclu

I backed the launch of the Trust & Transparency (TNT) Charter in Parliament, a campaign calling for clearer and fairer electricity pricing for businesses. The initiative, launched by Sarah Edwards MP and supported by organisations including the Federation of Small Businesses, aims to tackle opaque pricing, hidden commissions and complex contracts. UK business electricity prices remain significantly higher than in parts of Europe, with many firms citing energy as their biggest

I attended a Westminster session hosted by Tom Hayes MP and organised by UNISON, focusing on the importance of public libraries and pressures facing local councils. Research showed Worcestershire has maintained its library network and increased opening hours by 26% since 2010, despite a 55% reduction in staff over the same period. Libraries are incredibly valuable community assets that support learning and opportunity. I stressed the need to properly resource councils and wel

I pressed ministers in the House of Commons to improve safety and living standards for tenants in the private rented sector. Speaking during Housing Questions, I raised concerns about the number of non-decent rented homes and asked what further action the Government will take as reforms under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 come into force. Measures include ending Section 21 “no-fault” evictions, banning rental bidding wars and strengthening action on damp and mould. I welcomed

I visited Redditch Town Centre Post Office to meet new Postmaster Richard Fleetwood and reaffirm my support for keeping vital postal and banking services on the high street. The visit follows my successful community campaign, backed by thousands of residents, which secured the branch’s future. I praised Richard’s plans to maintain core services while strengthening the Post Office for the long term. I described the branch as a real community win and pledged to continue working

I visited the new Maggs Day Centre Hub in Redditch town centre to see how staff are supporting people experiencing homelessness across Redditch and Bromsgrove. Opened in October 2025, the Hub offers a welcoming space for drop-ins, housing and benefits advice, clothing, health services and outreach. Meeting Service Lead Lauren Ebeling and the team, I heard how the centre helps people rebuild their lives through practical support and strong partnerships. I praised their compass

I recently met representatives from 2Wish, a specialist charity supporting families affected by the sudden or unexpected death of a child or young person. During the visit to my constituency office, I spoke with Immediate Support Coordinator Alison Parry about the charity’s work across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire, including counselling, play therapy, memory boxes and practical support. I praised 2Wish for providing safe and compassionate support during unimag

I visited 216 (Redditch) Squadron RAF Air Cadets in Winyates, praising the camaraderie, discipline and life skills on display. I watched a drill display, joined cadets working on engineering projects and took part in a Q&A led by a Cadet Corporal. The Squadron supports young people to develop teamwork, leadership and resilience through a wide range of activities. The cadets are incredible young people and I thanked volunteers for their dedication. I would absolutely encourage

I visited Launch Pad Youth at The Old Needleworks Foundation to see first-hand the positive impact the club is having on young people in Redditch. Running weekly, the club provides a safe, welcoming space where young people can socialise, learn new skills and build confidence. During my visit, I joined a pancake-making session using fresh fruit donated by Friends of Isaac’s Food Bank, promoting healthy eating and wellbeing. I praised the dedication of youth workers and volunt

I met with Reverend Canon Paul Lawlor, Redditch Mission Area Leader and Area Dean of Redditch and Bromsgrove, to discuss community faith work and plans to revive interfaith events across the town. Our discussion covered the vital role faith groups play in supporting residents, particularly in areas such as Greenlands and Woodrow, as well as opportunities for partnership projects and funding for community initiatives. I praised Reverend Lawlor as an important leader at the hea

I visited Monty’s Spice Route Café in Batchley to support the new independent business and champion local entrepreneurs. Meeting owner Monty, I heard about his journey in opening the café and creating a welcoming community space. I sampled a chicken tikka wrap and latte, praising the relaxed atmosphere and South Asian-inspired menu, with takeaway also available locally. Highlighting the importance of small businesses, I said they are the lifeblood of communities, creating job

I thanked residents in Brockhill for engaging during my recent roving constituency surgery, where I went door to door to hear local concerns. Key issues raised included ongoing postal delays, the future of railway station development, facilities at the new police station and persistent potholes and road maintenance problems. The conversations were incredibly valuable in helping me understand what matters most to residents. I am already following up with the relevant authoriti

I joined young people and families at the 1st Church Hill Scout Group for a Shrove Tuesday pancake evening, celebrating the group’s vital role in the community. Visiting the Church Hill Scout Hut, I met Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Squirrels and helped flip and serve pancakes alongside them. I thanked volunteers for their dedication, praising those who give their time week in, week out. I highlighted the Scouts’ role in building confidence, teamwork and practical skills, adding

I visited Nomad Coffee Company at Redditch Railway Station, praising the independent café as a firm favourite among commuters. Meeting owner Cat and her team, I highlighted the café’s high-quality coffee and friendly service, which has made it a popular stop for travellers and residents. I also welcomed plans to support young entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses. Initiatives like this make a real difference in helping young people turn ideas into reality and I

I visited Droitwich Spa CVS at The Old Library Centre to meet staff and volunteers supporting residents across North Worcestershire. I met CEO Tonia Enderbury and community transport volunteers, hearing how services help people in rural areas access healthcare, shopping and social activities. I praised volunteers for helping residents stay connected and independent, highlighting the difference they make to daily life. I also discussed pressures facing the sector, including ri

I congratulated Redditch United FC after it achieved carbon-neutral certification, becoming only the second football club in the world to reach this landmark milestone. Announced at the Valley Stadium, the club’s independently verified NCZ Gold Certification confirms emissions across operations, travel and supply chains have been measured, reduced and offset. The club has committed to further reductions as part of its long-term strategy. I praised the phenomenal achievement,

I wrote to senior NHS leaders seeking clear answers on the future of the Hill Crest site and its role in new neighbourhood health services for Redditch and the Villages. Following discussions with Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, I am pressing for details on how the site could support joined-up care, bringing together GPs, nurses and specialists to better support patients with complex needs. Residents deserve honest, detailed answers on what this will mean in practic

I have strengthened partnership working with Homes England and Redditch Borough Council to increase the delivery of affordable and social housing locally. Meeting with senior officials, discussions focused on unlocking national funding, identifying under-used land and ensuring new developments meet high design and space standards. A joint land exercise has revealed additional viable sites, while confirmation of funding through the Social and Affordable Homes Programme from 20

I welcomed Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust’s decision to return previously sold-off land at Alexandra Hospital to NHS use, securing vital space for future healthcare expansion. During a visit to the site, I met senior Trust leaders to discuss capacity pressures and long-term planning. With much of the hospital already operating near full capacity, the land will now be protected for clinical purposes rather than retail, giving the Trust breathing room and certainty to