Following a local multi‑agency roundtable in Medway on reducing violence against women and girls, I asked the Government what action it is taking, particularly in light of new national strategies. Tackling this violence is critical for victims, women and community safety.

♻️ I’ve been calling for a review of the Environment Agency’s powers so they have the tools to prosecute offenders and shut down the illegal waste site at Brambletree Wharf in Borstal, as well as others across the region. More here 👉 buff.ly/0DHEcLg

The Government has recently published its new Violence Against Women and Girls strategy, aiming to halve violence within a decade, with new funding, mandatory lessons on healthy relationships and consent, a youth helpline, and specialist police teams in every force.

Excited to share ‘Learning or Earning: A New Agenda for Youth NEET Reduction’, which stems from my inquiry into the causes of the NEET challenge. This year, I’ll be pushing for its recommendations to be implemented. 👉 Full report: buff.ly/pLhMq1L 👉 My recent article on the topic: buff.ly/WP7hcIV

Great opportunity at my Select Committee to question Darren Jones MP, the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister - a new role designed to improve delivery and outcomes. I asked how the Government is focusing on achieving its key objectives and what challenges this change has brought. Listen here 👇

🌿🔥 A Chatham resident raised concerns about overgrown land posing a fire risk. After I stepped in, the council acted and the area was cleared - making it safer and improving the view for residents.

Have you checked your Pension Credit eligibility recently? It’s not just extra income - it unlocks vital help that could save hundreds each year, from housing and energy bills to free NHS services and even a free TV licence for over-75s. 👉 buff.ly/4wQrfKB

🏠 I welcome Medway Council’s decision to introduce stronger controls on homes in multiple occupation (HMOs). This is an important step forward in improving living conditions for residents and ensuring better oversight of HMOs across Rochester and Strood. Everyone deserves good-quality accommodation.

As 2025 draws to a close, thank you to everyone in Rochester & Strood for your support this year. Here’s to a fantastic start to 2026!

📈 The number of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) is rising - and it’s a challenge we can’t ignore. I’ve written for Kent Online about what we need to do nationally and what I’m planning locally to tackle this issue. 👉 Read here: buff.ly/OTlmetR

🎓 Amazing opportunity to open Waterfront UTC’s new T-Level suite! As Co-Chair of the APPG for Skills, Careers, and Employment, I’m proud to support technical education. T-Levels and vocational training are key to building future skills.

Happy Kwanzaa! A celebration of African heritage, unity, and community. Wishing peace and prosperity to all who are celebrating.

Merry Christmas to everyone in Rochester & Strood! Wishing you and your families a day filled with fun, rest, and celebration.

🎄 Thank you to the Historic Dockyard Chatham for inviting me to give a reading at this year’s Christmas Carol Service. It was wonderful to celebrate with fellow guests, as well as the staff and their families who work hard to keep this incredible part of our local heritage alive throughout the year.

👧🏫 I’m proud to support England’s first National Youth Strategy in 20 years. It will invest millions in youth workers and deliver 250 new or refurbished youth centres - strengthening community, improving wellbeing, and creating opportunities for young people.

🏠 A Rochester-based family faced homelessness just weeks before their daughter’s GCSE exams. After I raised their case, the council confirmed a housing plan and support to secure suitable accommodation.

Really good to be back at St Mary’s Island Community Centre for my last constituency surgery of the year before Christmas. For updates on my monthly surgeries in 2026 and to stay updated on all my work, you can check my web-site here: buff.ly/jqCrQZR

🎉 Congratulations to Beybaba Turkish Restaurant in Strood for being named a finalist in the British Kebab Awards 2026! This national recognition highlights their quality, service, and contribution to our community. 🗳️ Vote here: buff.ly/A0H1uVh

Wishing all who celebrate a joyful Hanukkah! I hope the Festival brings peace and happiness to you and your loved ones.

🏠 Proud to be part of a Government launching a £3.5 billion National Plan to End Homelessness. It tackles rough sleeping and addresses root causes, creating long-term housing pathways. Everyone deserves a safe, stable home - this plan is a big step toward that goal.

🤝 The Employment Rights Act is now law - ending zero-hour contracts, curbing fire-and-rehire, and strengthening day-one rights. I was proud to vote for this landmark legislation, which takes effect in 2026.

🏫 I recently asked the Education Minister what steps are being taken to support primary-aged students with careers guidance. Reaching children early is vital for promoting technical routes that our economy will rely on in the future. Watch my question and the Minister’s response below 👇

👪 The new Child Poverty Strategy will lift 550,000 children out of poverty by 2030, with over 2,700 effected in Rochester and Strood. The plan includes ending the two-child benefit cap and expanding free school meals, breakfast clubs, and nursery programs.

📢 £89.1m of additional funding for Medway Council announced - part of major changes to local government funding. Under the Tories, Medway’s core spending power fell by 91% between 2010 and 2024. This 32% increase will allow long-term investment in frontline services and community spaces.

♻️ I spoke to the BBC about the illegal waste site at Brambletree Wharf in Borstal. We need to review if the Environment Agency is doing enough and whether new powers are needed. This blight must be cleared. Full story here: 👉 buff.ly/uGAWLdj

This morning, I signed the condolence book at Australia House in London, for victims of the Bondi Beach attack targeting Australia’s Jewish community. My thoughts are with the victims and Jewish communities in Australia and the UK - the two countries I consider home.

🚆 Fantastic to meet with Andrew Gibbs from Virgin Rail with colleague and Ashford MP Sojan Joseph. Discussed next steps in our campaign for the return of international rail services in Kent, after Virgin was recently given the green light to launch a rival international services via Channel Tunnel.

From welcoming Moot Brew Co to Parliament and celebrating Christmas with local families - here are some of the highlights from my last week:

Labour’s landmark Employment Rights Bill has passed BOTH Houses of Parliament today. Marvellous news 👏

🚌 An extra £1.4m for Medway buses every year for three years! This 37% funding boost means better routes and improved services - especially for areas like Hoo Peninsula, Cuxton, and Halling. More reliable buses and better connections for schools, work, and appointments.

🏛️ Rochester and Strood has 569 listed buildings - from Rochester Castle to All Saints Church in Hoo. I’m fighting for the return of the VAT exemption to make restoring these sites affordable and protect our heritage. Read my article on the topic here 👉 buff.ly/V0QA9bw

Great to join the Scope reception last week on the International Day of Disabled People to discuss how we can begin closing the employment gap for disabled people by creating more inclusive workplaces.

🩸 Giving blood is quick, easy, and can save lives - that’s why I’ve donated as part of the NHS winter blood drive. Winter blood supplies drop significantly, so please consider signing up. Find out more here 👉 buff.ly/k8vZfz5

🍺 Great to enjoy a pint of Moot Brew Co’s IPA in Parliament! Thanks to Patrick & Calvin from Moot, Barry from the Society of Independent Brewers, and the Commons team for making this happen. Great to see Halling-brewed beer served at Strangers’ Bar this Christmas. More info: buff.ly/epPrdHv

🤝 Great to meet Julia Prescot, Chair of NeuConnect, to discuss the energy interconnector being built near Grain. It will link Germany and the UK, strengthen energy infrastructure, and bring jobs, investment, and green skills to Rochester and Strood. Learn more: buff.ly/O9uvA9A

🍰 Congrats to the Invest in Women Taskforce on its first birthday - £600m raised to support female entrepreneurs. Great to see this backed by our first female Chancellor. I’ll keep championing investment and support for women-led businesses in Rochester and Strood.

🫶 Encouraged by the generosity of local residents at this year’s Medway Foodbank collection. I donated at Tesco Strood to help those most in need this Christmas. Huge thanks to everyone who gave and the volunteers making it happen. You can learn more about the Foodbank here: buff.ly/amnbPEv

Another busy week in Westminster and Rochester & Strood, focusing on skills, local businesses, and tackling fly-tipping:

Labour’s £820m Youth Guarantee will help almost 600 young people in Rochester and Strood into work and training. I asked the Secretary of State why targeted support matters to give hope and opportunity - and cut the welfare bill. Listen to my question 👇

📢 Following my recent Parliamentary questions and work on the illegal waste site at Brambletree Wharf, I’ve written to the Government requesting a meeting to discuss next steps and review Environment Agency powers. Read my full letter here: buff.ly/tE5xtxd

🌿 Exciting plans for Temple Marsh Nature Reserve in Strood! I joined a public consultation to learn about the proposed parks, picnic areas, and walking routes for residents. Best of all, the reserve is funded by developer contributions - so no cost to taxpayers. Share your views: buff.ly/KXdrb0P

🎅✨ A reminder that Mission Christmas runs until 24 December, offering an immersive 45-minute festive experience for families at Historic Dockyard Chatham. Learn more, book your ticket's and support the great work of the Dockyard here:

Illegal waste sites like Brambletree Wharf in Borstal have blighted our countryside for too long. I’ve called for a debate in Parliament on whether the Environment Agency is using its powers effectively - and if new powers are needed to tackle this challenge. You can listen to my question below 👇

Great to be out supporting small businesses in the constituency for Small Business Saturday. Extra busy in Rochester High St as we also have the fantastic Dickensian Christmas Festival this weekend!

Great to be in Cliffe last Friday for my November monthly surgery, and thanks to a festive Cliffe Memorial Hall for hosting us. For updates on my next surgery and to stay updated on all my work, you can check my website here: buff.ly/vJws2SG

A lovely start to the day meeting Cesare and Andy from Bodhicharya Kent Buddhist Centre and learning about their principles: Healing, Helping, and Harmony. Find out more and see upcoming events in their refurbished Rochester building. More info here: buff.ly/30N1KO7

🎟 Ticket touting will soon be illegal. New rules will ban reselling tickets above face value, tackling bots and inflated prices. A big win for music, sport, and theatre fans - making events fairer and more affordable.

I recently wrote to the Government calling for a fairer system for local authorities so Medway Council gets the resources it needs. The Gov's announcement of a new formula is a step forward, but I’ll keep lobbying ahead of the final settlement later this month. 📝 Read the letter: buff.ly/qF1BwAy