Vote for rescue dog Rossi
Westminster is now in recess but a very important decision is currently underway!
Yes, it’s the Westminster Dog of the Year competition and I am delighted to inform you that our constituency now has a finalist.
Rossi our Scottish SPCA rescue dog, pictured,has made it alongside other illustrious pooches and YOUR vote could make that difference in propelling him to success.
Please therefore vote for Rossi at www.thekennelclub. org.uk and our constituency could take the title.
Wouldn’t it be great if a local SSPCA rescue dog from this constituency could win Westminster Dog of the Year for the first time?
This week also saw our Scottish Government launch a consultation on the future welfare strategy which will form the new Scottish Social Security Bill and is planned to be introduced within the first year of parliament.
This will be a fundamental piece of legislation outlining the way we want Scotland to support our most vulnerable citizens and will include disability and carers’ payments, maternity grants and winter fuel payments.
Please make sure you join the Scottish Government consultation and add your local views, making it inclusive and comprehensive.
In continuing my work championing Disability and Mental Health, last week I supported the National Autistic Society’s campaign for Autism Friendly High Streets.
High noise levels, glaring lights and flashing screens all impact detrimentally upon sensory sensitivities of children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder causing social isolation and difficulties in undertaking basic tasks of daily living.
This campaign seeks to make practical changes to both highlight and address these issues and make our shopping areas autism friendly. I therefore plan to meet with shopping centre management to discuss these issues and will keep you informed.
I was also delighted to visit SNAP (Special Needs Adventure Playground) this fortnight who offer a summer club and respite for children with disability across East Kilbride.
I spoke with staff, volunteers, parents and children who all told me just how important this resource is and what a difference it makes for them.
SNAP relies upon fundraising and our donations so please consider SNAP for any future sponsorship you are involved in.
Last week I was really pleased to go back to the NHS Unite group where I worked for many years to speak about my first year in Westminster in my talk entitled “Shop Steward in the House”.
We covered policy including Brexit and work on the Trade Union Bill Committee alongside practicalities such as finding my way around the maze that is Westminster.
I was pleased to emphasise the importance of issues I learned in my role as a union representative such as the importance of supporting equality, workers and maternity rights.
Finally a little tribute to Strathaven Park for once again being recognised as the top green space and in claiming its third green flag.
I have visited this park since childhood and now with my own children and it is always amazing!