Long-term approach needed to face today’s challenges

It has been another busy month for me as MP, representing local interests in Parliament and supporting our community as Bath reopened to locals and visitors.

In Westminster, I asked Government to raise the Carer’s Allowance, create a targeted strategy for disability and employment, and invest in the long-term future of social care.

I spoke about the experiences of people in Bath, for example, an extremely vulnerable constituent who signed up to receive Government food parcels in March, during the first lockdown, and did not receive anything until mid-june.

The pandemic has been challenging for everyone but for those who have had to shield or have other types of disabilities, it has been especially painful. Many in these groups have lost jobs and experienced deteriorating mental health after months of isolation. 25 years since the Disability Discrimination Act came into legislation, it is high time we truly recognise the value of the social care sector.

As a result of my work with a local group, I led a Parliamentary debate on ‘Global Human Security’ asking Government to rethink the way we approach risk and defence. We need to make policy based on a long-term vision, understanding the greatest threats we face as a nation are posed by the climate emergency, worsening global inequality, and health crises.

Maternal health inequalities have worsened in the last few years, and the pandemic has had a far greater impact on minority communities.

It is horrific that in the year 2021, being Black still makes you five times more likely to die in childbirth in this country.

Hearing accounts from women in Bath who have had their lives put at risk and their concerns not listened to whilst giving birth has been heart-breaking. I am committed to lobbying on their behalf.

I was delighted that a new location has been found for Bath Farmers’ Market while the Green Park Station roof undergoes repairs.

The market will be based at Green Park Car Park, the former Avon Street Coach Park.

My office received emails from traders and residents on this issue. I would like to warmly congratulate the acting BANES Council Leader Richard Samuel and his team for finding a central location quickly.

After a long pause, it was wonderful to be out listening to residents on the doorstep in the runup to today’s elections for West of England Mayor and the Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner.

We Liberal Democrats believe in grassroots politics and localism. I know these values resonate with our communities here in Bath.