As I write this column, I am reflecting on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau by Soviet troops in 1945, observed on January 27. Holocaust Memorial Day serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and all acts of genocide. It encourages us to pause and reflect on our shared responsibility to stand against hatred, prejudice, and intolerance.

As your Member of Parliament, I understand the weight of this responsibility. It is vital that we not only remember the victims of such atrocities, but also ensure that these horrors are never repeated. This month, I have attended several events across Parliament to honour the victims and to reflect on the values that unite us as a nation—values of respect, kindness, and a commitment to preventing injustice in all its forms. In addition, I have been reaching out to schools across the Forest, inviting them to take part in events organised by the Holocaust Educational Trust. These events play a crucial role in educating the next generation, and I encourage all constituents to engage with this important day and reflect on its meaning.

Since my last column, I have been visiting communities and meeting with residents to hear their concerns. Last week, I knocked on doors in Newent, where the state of our local roads, particularly the growing issue of potholes, came up time and time again. Potholes are not just a nuisance—they damage vehicles, create safety hazards, and disrupt daily life. The Government’s pothole campaign aims to tackle this issue, and I’m pleased to announce that Gloucestershire County Council (GCC) will receive £35.3 million in direct investment to help address the problem. If you spot any persistent potholes, please email me at [email protected], and my team will ensure they are reported to GCC.

I also visited Tutshill, where residents raised concerns about local roads and safety issues. I am actively following up on these concerns and will be pressing GCC Highways to take swift action. During a surgery in Sedbury, I had productive discussions on issues such as antisocial behaviour, health services, and road safety. These surgeries allow me to connect directly with residents and I always find them valuable for understanding the challenges faced by our communities. My surgeries are now being booked into March, if you would like to book an appointment, please email me at [email protected].

One of the most pressing issues I have been tackling this month is the state of maternity services at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Following the recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) report, which rated maternity services as inadequate, I wrote to the CEO, Kevin McNamara, to express my concerns. This is the third consecutive year that Gloucestershire’s maternity services have been rated inadequate, raising serious questions about the safety and quality of care for mothers and babies in our county. I have urged the Trust to take immediate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all patients.

On another important issue, I have received a lot of feedback from constituents regarding devolution and its impact on Gloucestershire. While I fully support the Government’s devolution plans, I believe it is crucial that any changes work in the best interest of the Forest of Dean. Our area has too often been overlooked, and I am determined to ensure we are not left behind in these discussions. Along with four other Gloucestershire MPs, I am calling for a different approach to Gloucestershire County Council’s (GCC) proposal for a single unitary authority. Instead, we are proposing two separate unitary authorities—one for the West and one for the East. This would allow the Forest of Dean to work more closely with neighbouring areas, ensuring our unique needs and priorities are addressed. Additionally, I do not support the proposals from some to delay the local elections in May, as it is crucial that local communities have their say without unnecessary delay.

I have noticed some misinformation circulating online regarding my decision to step down from my position on the Forest of Dean District Council. To clarify, after careful consideration of my responsibilities as both a Councillor and an MP, I have decided to step down as a District Councillor at the time of the upcoming local elections in May. This will help limit the costs of a by-election, as the elections will already be taking place. It will also ensure a smoother transition for whoever takes over as councillor, avoid unnecessary costs, and protect public funds.

In Parliamentary news, I am honoured to have been appointed to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill Committee. This Bill addresses key issues in children's education and wellbeing across England. It includes measures such as free breakfast clubs, caps on the number of branded school uniform items, and vital reforms to safeguarding and children’s social care. As a committee member, I will be working with experts to scrutinise the Bill and ensure it will make a meaningful impact. My experience as a School Governor and Education Officer has given me a strong understanding of the challenges in education, and I look forward to bringing that experience to the committee.

As always, if you’d like to get in touch with me, please email me at [email protected].