It has been another busy and productive week both in Parliament and across our local communities.
A key part of my role as your Member of Parliament is listening to the concerns of residents and taking action. Lots of people have contacted me recently about delays to Royal Mail deliveries. While our local posties do a fantastic job and work incredibly hard, it is clear that the overall system is not working as it should. I’m gathering residents’ experiences so that I can continue to press for improvements. I raised concerns on behalf of Aycliffe residents in the chamber of the House of Commons recently and am pushing for everyone to receive the reliable service we deserve. Please share your views through my survey:
https://tinyurl.com/Royal-Mail-survey
Supporting residents with the rising cost of living also remains a top priority. Following recent global events, including the conflict in Iran which has driven up oil prices, the Chancellor has announced over £50 million of support for lower-income households who rely on heating oil. This is an important step in helping to protect families in our area and across the country who depend on this form of fuel, particularly in the villages in our constituency.
My campaigning to creating jobs and opportunities locally is making real progress. I was proud to speak in Parliament about the new apprenticeships at the Octric semi-conductor factory in Aycliffe. It was a pleasure to meet Sam and Evan, two young apprentices who’ve recently started at the factory, supported by South West Durham Training. After working with the Defence Secretary to save the plant, I’m really pleased that government investment has ensured 33 more jobs being created and new apprenticeships. It is a strong example of how government investment can support local industry, strengthen our economy and provide real opportunities for people in our community.
It was wonderful to visit Vane Road Primary School in Newton Aycliffe. Spending time in our schools is always one of the most rewarding parts of being an MP. Engaging with young people about how Parliament works, discussing democracy and encouraging them to share their ideas helps to bring politics to life in a meaningful way. These visits are not just about explaining my role, but about promoting important British values such as respect, participation and active citizenship. The pupils asked thoughtful and insightful questions and it was inspiring to hear their ideas about the future of our town.
My office continues to support local residents with a wide range of issues. We have helped thousands of individuals, often with very complex cases. I’ve also held 57 MP advice surgeries across towns and villages throughout the constituency to ensure I remain accessible to those who need support. I’m proud to have also secured nearly £80,000 for residents through unclaimed benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment.
If you have an issue you would like to raise with me, please email: alan.strickland.mp@parliament.uk or call 01325 344185. Finally, I would encourage anyone who would like to stay up to date with my work in Parliament and across the constituency to sign up to my newsletter for regular updates.
