I exposed a stark mental health funding disparity during a Westminster Hall debate. I highlighted that mental health conditions account for 28% of NHS caseloads but receive only 13% of funding, despite legal parity of esteem requirements. I warned this leaves Worcestershire services facing long waits and over-reliance on crisis care. If we are serious about parity of esteem, the spending must follow the rhetoric. I pledged to keep pushing for the resources mental health services need.

I urged Greenlands and Woodrow residents to shape £20 million Pride in Place funding. Speaking in the Commons, I revealed interviews for the independent Chair of the new Neighbourhood Board are underway. This legally ring-fenced fund puts decision-making in residents’ hands to revitalise community spaces. The Board will hold engagement sessions before submitting a 10-year plan this autumn. This represents the largest direct financial investment in Redditch in my lifetime. I urge everyone to...

I backed the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s campaign for 24/7 hospital helipads after visiting their redeveloped Strensham Airbase. Meeting Associate Clinical Operations Director Julian Spiers and clinical team, I praised their life-saving work and highlighted the charity’s reliance on public donations, as it receives no direct government funding. I pledged to champion improved helipad access to reduce transfer times for critically ill patients. Every minute makes a difference. Redditch...