While Parliament has been in recess over August, I’ve been a busy spending time with local residents’ groups, businesses and community organisations. Recess is always a valuable opportunity to spend more time here in the constituency, listening to the concerns of local residents and seeing the excellent work being carried out in our community.
Over the summer I had the privilege of visiting a number of employers and institutions that play a vital role in the local manufacturing sector. At 3M I heard from staff about the cutting-edge work being carried out at their Newton Aycliffe site. On a more personal note, my Auntie Jean worked at the factory for over 40 years, so it was lovely to meet her former colleagues. I’m proud of 3M’s strong record on apprenticeships, supporting the next generation, which is a key priority for me as your local MP.
I also visited Northumbria University where I heard about the work they are leading to create more routes for young people from our area into higher education and degree-level apprenticeships. We discussed how to expand opportunities so that young people can gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive, whether they choose to go on to university, vocational training or straight into work.
It was also great to visit Tesco in Aycliffe where I met the store manager and head office staff to hear about the ways they are supporting our local communities, through employment, community grants and food bank donations. I was really impressed by the work they’re doing.
Back in Westminster this week, the Labour government’s focus has been a big boost in support for working families. Free childcare for kids under 2 has been doubled this week from 15 to 30 hours. This will be a massive help to local Mams and Dads, saving on average £7,500 and helping parents balance work and family life. The government has also extended school holiday clubs so children can continue to enjoy activities outside of term time and we’re reducing the cost of school uniforms by capping the number of branded items. All of these measures will help families, improve child development and deliver on Labour’s commitment to put more money in your pocket.
Newton Aycliffe was also given additional funding for policing by the government’s Summer Hotspot scheme. This gave Durham Constabulary more resources to put boots on the ground to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. It’s been encouraging to see how this funding is already making an impact and to hear from officers about their work in keeping our town safe. Newton Aycliffe was one of four towns across our constituency to benefit from this extra funding, along with Ferryhill, Spennymoor and Chilton.
Finally, I held regular advice surgeries in Trimdon Station, Aycliffe and West Cornforth. It’s always great to sit down with local residents to discuss issues and concerns. As Parliament returns, my priority remains the same: to stand up for our Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor constituency and ensure our community continues to have the support, investment and opportunities it deserves. I will keep working hard, both locally and in Westminster, to deliver on the issues that matter most to us as residents.