Yesterday, I joined Bournville Village Trust and Spring Housing Association for a tour of the Beeches. The building in Bournville is being given a new lease of life as apartments for families (on Birmingham City Council’s waiting list) who are in urgent need of a home.

I recently had the pleasure of spending an evening in conversation with the brilliant Jacqui Smith. It was a privilege to share stories from my time in the Royal Marines, Everest, my year as MP for Selly Oak & my time in Government as Minister for Veterans & People. Here’s to the journey ahead.

I visited Acorns Children's Hospice and admired the new mural created in honour of the remarkable Benjamin Zephaniah- renowned poet, musician, actor, proud Brummie, and advocate for causes close to his heart. Benjamin was a devoted long-standing supporter of Acorns, generously giving his time.

Great to visit Birmingham Hippodrome- the UK’s busiest theatre and a real cultural gem for our city. The Hipp is more than a stage- it’s a driver of opportunity, creativity & over £73m in economic value for our region. I’m looking forward to working together to champion the role of the arts in Bham.

During a recent visit to Birmingham Children's Hospital, I witnessed remarkable work from an exceptional team dedicated to supporting all our children and women in society. I learned about the Trust's innovative approach, including 3D-printing heart models to enhance cardiology treatment.

As veteran, I recognise the challenges that many of our Service personnel can face when transitioning back to civilian life. This week's visit to Combat Stress in Birmingham was deeply moving. I saw the care being provided and met veterans who are on their journey to recovery.

On Friday, I made my first ever plasma donation at the Birmingham Donor Centre. As MP for Selly Oak, I’m proud to stand up for a stronger, more self-sufficient NHS. Plasma donations are vital– they help treat over 50 life-threatening conditions. #giveplasma @givebloodnhs.bsky.social

A reminder that I will be at Cotteridge Church on Mon 21 July, to discuss and address the issue of poverty with our constituents. I am eager to hear the concerns and issues of local residents, take questions, and discuss the efforts being made to combat poverty at both local and national levels.

I'd be delighted if you could join me on Thur 24 July for a relaxed evening filled with stories, laughter, perhaps a drink or two, and an exclusive look into my life as an MP. Most importantly, your presence will support Labour's 2026 campaign fund. 🎟️Book your tickets here: labevents.org/wm25alcarns

Last week, I visited the Outpost Arts Centre in Druids Heath and meeting with Jayne. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about this remarkable community facility. We discussed the Cultural Placemaking Plan for Druids Heath and the ongoing efforts to establish a Cultural Action Area.

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit Christchurch C of E Secondary Academy. Since the tragic loss of their student Leo Ross, the school community has faced significant challenges. It was heartening to return to the school and reconnect with the remarkable staff and students.

I had a fantastic time attending this year's CoCoMAD festival at Cotteridge Park on Saturday. It was great to see so many people there enjoying themselves. CoCoMAD is run by Friends of Cotteridge Park, a group of dedicated volunteers who are always looking for more people to join their team.

Today marks a fantastic milestone for rail travel in our region as the Midlands Rail Hub progresses, bringing with it new connections, additional platforms and up to 300 extra trains daily. At a visit to Kings Norton Station I witnessed how this investment will bridge communities and enhance travel.

Curry, beer and wine in Stirchley on Friday. A great end to a Friday night, and a great end to a first year with a legendary team. For all the leaders out there- "you are only ever as good as your team". Thanks guys for a fantastic year!

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the venue for my next advice surgery this Saturday has changed. The new details are below. I apologise for any inconvenience caused.

n Armed Forces Week we honour the men and women who risk their lives in defence of our nation. This Labour Government has delivered the largest pay rise to the Armed Forces in 20 years. Now we're tackling improving forces housing with Homes Fit for Heroes. @alcarns.bsky.social

🎖️ As part of Armed Forces Week I spoke to the team at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. My message to SMEs is clear: veterans bring talent, discipline, and value — and employers should take notice. #ArmedForcesWeek #VeteransInBusiness #GreaterBirmingham #AFW2025

I'm really looking forward to attending this year's CoCoMAD festival at Cotteridge Park on Sat 5 July. I hope to see some of you there- you don’t need a ticket, and can bring the whole family. Thanks to the community of Cotteridge. Without your support, this wonderful festival wouldn’t be possible.

Great to see this amazing work from Bournville Village Trust, who are working in partnership with Small Woods, supporting veterans to transition back to civilian life. It's fantastic to see them learning new practical skills and preserving woodland, while sharing their experiences.

It was an honour to meet the Royal Air Force Air Cadets from Kings Heath & Moseley and Rubery Squadrons today. I joined them at their hub in Rubery, and for some fieldcraft training in the Waseley Hills. Young people from across Selly Oak attend both squadrons to gain further skills and experiences.

Great to speak with Jane Haynes from @birminghamlive.bsky.social about my upcoming Mission: Everest. I've been inspired to take on this challenge by the efforts of volunteers I've seen in Selly Oak who contribute so much to make lives better, from litter picking to supporting the local hospices.

I recently met with a group of residents in Bournville, who are tackling road danger and making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to get around. The discussion was very constructive and I look forward to working with them to make Selly Oak a safer and easier place to get around on two wheels.

That ride with @alcarns.bsky.social looked like this. Thank you to Al for making time to meet local residents concerned about tackling road danger and making it easier to get around the Selly Oak constituency and the wider city, including several from @betterstreetsforbirmingham.org.

The lives we live today are made possible by the sacrifices of the past. As we mark #VEDay80 this year, we show our thanks for the strength and dedication of our Armed Forces, both past and present.

Calling all budding artists🧑‍🎨 – here is your opportunity to decorate 10 Downing Street! To mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, we’re inviting children to take part in a competition to design bunting for the celebrations. For more information and how to enter, visit: ve-vjday80.gov.uk/10-downing-s...

The support Manchester gives to our Armed Forces Community starts with its leaders. So it’s been great to meet with Mayor @andyburnham.bsky.social to recognise everyone involved in helping to deliver the Greater Manchester Armed Forces Covenant Roadmap. @greatermcr.bsky.social deserve great credit.

Cllr Mary Locke is hosting a jobs fair to connect jobseekers with employers offering full-time, part-time and flexible vacancies. If you're looking for work or looking to fill a vacancy, please join Mary at Stirchley Baths, Bournville Lane, B30 2JT on Wed 9 April from 10am to 1.30pm.

Casework is one of the most important processes within my parliamentary role. Helping people in Selly Oak will always be my top priority. #sellyoak #casework #memberofparliament

I was really pleased to find out this morning that Bournville Radio Sailing and Model Boat Club and Boating Lake has been granted Grade II listed status by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England. Built in 1933, the Cadbury family funded the construction.

Last week, I met acclaimed actor Larry Lamb in Westminster to celebrate Marie Curie's Great Daffodil Appeal. I also met dedicated staff & volunteers from the UKs leading end of life charity. I encourage people across Selly Oak to show their support for the Great Daffodil Appeal in any way they can.

A reminder to come and meet me on Friday at Cotteridge Church from 1700-1830 if you need advice or have an issue you would like to discuss. The advice surgery is for residents who live in the Selly Oak constituency. You can check which constituency you live in here: members.parliament.uk/findyourmp

The Not Forgotten is a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of veterans and serving military personnel. They have partnered with Matt Goss to release a heartfelt single to celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day, and I had the pleasure of attending the first official playback last night.

I had the opportunity to see the inner workings of the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association recently. It was a pleasure to meet the staff and discuss everything from purpose and governance to engagement and output. Thanks to everyone for their warm welcome & keep up the fantastic work!

I visited National Grid Electricity Distribution’s substation at Highters Heath, which delivers power to nearly 26k local customers. We discussed how NGED is investing in their network to support local economic growth & the energy transition, recruiting apprentices, and supporting their customers.

The 'Big Business Supporting Small Business' group, run by X-Forces Enterprise, is an essential platform for collaboration between corporate giants and veteran entrepreneurs, helping the forces community to excel. This Labour Government is committed to supporting veteran-led enterprise.

On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women. I’m proud to have been elected into a Parliament where 40% of MPs are female- the highest number in history. Over the last 9 months, I've enjoyed meeting many inspiring women who make Selly Oak such an incredible place to live.

Last week, along with West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Birmingham City Council officials, I took part in a ‘topping out’ ceremony celebrating the completion of the highest point of the community-owned Stirchley Co-operative building. It was great to see the progress being made.

It was great to be at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Awards last week, with over 1000 people at the ICC celebrating the contribution of diverse businesses in our city and region. A special mention to Birmingham Hospice who won the Excellence in Inclusive People Development Award.

I had the honour of meeting Colin S. Bell, a 104-year-old Second World War veteran and former Mosquito bomber pilot. Hearing about his incredible service in the @royalairforce.bsky.social was truly inspiring. Wishing him a very happy birthday and thank you for your service.

I was honoured to take part in a roundtable discussion yesterday with the Ukrainian Veterans of the Azov Brigade who were illegally held captive by the Russians. We spoke about issues relating to Ukrainian Prisoners of War. During this critical time, our commitment to Ukraine remains resolute.

I recently attended Pancreatic Cancer UK's event to hear the impact of shortages of Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy. I am pleased to support their campaign by signing the open letter calling for an urgent meeting, and a national approach to ensure that PERT is available when people need it.

I'm pleased that Housing Minister Rushanara Ali accepted my invitation to visit Selly Park last month. I wanted the Minister to see the impact of unregulated Exempt Accommodation properties & to back the calls from local Cllrs & residents for the stronger regulation of supported housing providers.

Here are the details for my next Advice Surgery for any constituents needing help and support. This is a drop-in service; no appointment is required. If you are a constituent and need advice, or have an issue that you would like to discuss with me, please come along and I will be happy to help.

Great to visit Stirchley with @alcarns.bsky.social today. The community here will be their own landlords. This co-op shows what happens when people have power over their own homes. Safety, security, fairness, and pride in where they live. We need more of this. 🏡 @coopparty.party.coop

I have received a response from the Leader of Birmingham City Council regarding my letter to him about the deteriorating housing environment in Bournbrook. I will continue to push for clear and persistent action to be taken to tackle the problems I have raised on behalf of residents.

Last night, the Lord Mayor of London hosted businesses from across the City of London to champion the #ArmedForcesCovenant and #ERS Scheme. As we face changing threats, the partnership between Defence and employers has never been more important.