August has been a busy month in Erewash. Although Parliament has been in recess, there is no such thing as a summer break when you are an MP. In fact, the recess gives me an opportunity to spend even more time out and about across the constituency, meeting residents, visiting local businesses, supporting community organisations and seeing for myself how projects are progressing. This month has taken me from advanced manufacturing in Long Eaton to grassroots music in Ilkeston, from discussions about national policy to knocking doors with local councillors. There have been some brilliant moments, some difficult challenges and plenty of reminders of why it matters to have a strong local voice in Westminster.

Supporting local businesses and our economy
One of my priorities as an MP is making sure that Erewash’s businesses have the support they need to grow. We have an extraordinary amount of talent and expertise here, particularly in manufacturing, engineering and other highly skilled industries.

At the start of the month I visited I Holland in Long Eaton, an excellent example of what our local manufacturing sector can achieve. For 80 years, the company has been designing and manufacturing precision tooling used in the production of tablets and medicines around the world. From Long Eaton, its products reach customers in more than 100 countries.

It was particularly interesting for me to visit because of my own background in manufacturing research. We were able to have some very technical conversations about surface metrology and manufacturing processes, while also discussing the practical challenges facing businesses today.

I am continuing to work with I Holland and other local businesses to raise issues around international steel purchasing with ministers in the newly strengthened Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade. Access to the right materials at the right price matters enormously to advanced manufacturers, and I want businesses in Erewash to have a strong voice as the Government develops its industrial and trade policies.

A stronger economy is ultimately about more than statistics. It means good jobs, skilled work, investment and opportunities for people across our communities. That is why supporting manufacturing, apprenticeships, innovation and small businesses remains so important.

Rebuilding our high streets
Another major theme of August has been our town centres. I have spent a lot of time this summer visiting independent businesses and talking to people about what they want their high streets to look like.

There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Erewash Borough Council has introduced free Saturday parking in its council-owned car parks, helping make it easier and cheaper to visit Ilkeston, Long Eaton and Sandiacre. One thing I have been particularly keen to highlight is that around a quarter of people were still paying for parking on Saturdays despite it being free. If you are one of those people, please keep your money in your pocket!

I have also been making the most of the policy myself. During a day of door knocking in Ilkeston, I stopped for lunch at Annie’s coffee shop, while elsewhere this month I have visited independent businesses including Books on the Bridge and RealCoffee.cafe in Long Eaton, DÜDL on College Street and Millies at Armstrong’s Mill in Ilkeston. These are the sorts of businesses that give our towns their character, and every one of us can play a part by choosing to shop locally where we can.

The Prime Minister’s visit to Ilkeston was an important moment in this work. I was delighted to welcome Andy Burnham, alongside Angela Rayner and Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward, to meet residents, businesses and community leaders and see some of the work already taking place.

We talked about how we can make our high streets better places to live, work and visit. That includes giving communities more say over what opens on their high streets, strengthening planning controls around businesses such as vape shops and adult gaming centres and giving local authorities and police stronger powers to deal with rogue operators where there are serious concerns about links to organised crime.

But legislation alone will not transform our town centres. We need thriving independent businesses, good local services, clean streets and public spaces that people are proud of. That is why I was also pleased to see work taking place on the Box Office in Long Eaton following a clean-up order. The building had become tired and run down, but the owner engaged with the process and carried out substantial improvements to the frontage.

These changes might sometimes seem small, but collectively they make a real difference.

Investing in our parks and public spaces
Across Erewash, we are also seeing a significant programme of investment in parks and play areas.

In August I visited Erewash Square in Ilkeston, where the play area is set for a major upgrade. This follows the transformation of Johnny’s Park and forms part of a much wider programme of improvements across the borough.

In Sawley, Sawley Park is due to receive resurfacing, while the smaller play area near the station is being refurbished with a new railway theme. Further improvements are planned for Sawley Park and Lakeside Park, including a new fence supported by Sawley Community Council.

Meanwhile, work is already taking shape in Victoria Park in Ilkeston. Improved lighting is helping to make the park feel more welcoming after dark, while plans are progressing for a completely new children’s play area. Importantly, accessibility is being built into those plans from the start, with the Erewash Labour Team working with disability rights groups to help make the new space as inclusive as possible.

Good parks are about much more than playground equipment. They are places where families spend time together, children make memories and communities come together. After years when some of these spaces were allowed to fall behind, it is genuinely encouraging to see investment going back into them.

Pride in place for Cotmanhay
There is a particularly exciting opportunity in Cotmanhay, where the community has secured £20 million through the Government’s Pride in Place programme.

The important thing about this funding is that local people are being put in the driving seat. Up to £2 million a year will be available for ten years, with residents helping to determine the priorities for their area.

That means the first stage is listening.

During August I encouraged Cotmanhay residents to complete the survey asking what matters most to them, what challenges they face and what they would like to see change over the next decade.

This is only the beginning of the process. There will be further opportunities for residents and local groups to develop and put forward projects, but it is vital that people make their voices heard now. If we are going to invest £20 million in Cotmanhay, I want that investment to reflect what the people who live there actually want.

Keeping our communities clean
One of the most common things people raise with me when I am out and about is the state of our streets. Fly-tipping, graffiti, dog fouling and litter might sound like small issues compared with some of the great challenges facing the country, but they have a huge impact on how people feel about where they live.

For too long, local government cuts have meant that councils have struggled to maintain the services needed to deal with these problems.

That is beginning to change in Erewash. Town centre street sweeping has returned, more neighbourhood wardens have been recruited and thousands of anti-graffiti kits have been purchased.

Those kits are not just for council staff. Parish councils, community groups and local businesses can also make use of them, giving communities the ability to take action when graffiti appears.

None of this will transform our streets overnight. Years of underinvestment cannot be reversed instantly. But bringing these services back and giving local people the tools to help is an important step towards restoring pride in our communities.

Fighting for better transport
August also brought an unwelcome reminder of how fragile our local bus network can be when CT4N collapsed, putting the No. 29 service between Long Eaton and Sandiacre at risk.

I moved quickly to meet representatives of the East Midlands Mayor’s office to discuss what could be done to protect local services and support the workers affected. Thankfully, the No. 29 has since been saved, but the wider problem remains.

We cannot keep accepting a system where essential bus routes are vulnerable to the collapse of individual operators. Reliable public transport is essential for people getting to work, accessing education, visiting family and simply living their lives.

I have also continued to make the case for major improvements to our road network. Junction 25 is already under enormous pressure and the case for a Junction 25A is becoming stronger as development at New Stanton Park progresses.

I have raised the issue directly with the Prime Minister and have met repeatedly with the Transport Secretary and Roads Minister to understand what is needed to get a major scheme like this into the national programme.

At the same time, I am working to explore whether the Stanton rail spur could be brought back into use. Getting freight onto rail rather than adding more HGVs to already congested local roads would benefit residents, businesses and the environment.

Supporting young people
August is always a significant month for young people receiving their exam results. I wanted to congratulate everyone receiving A level, T level, VTQ and GCSE results and remind anyone who did not get the results they hoped for that there is no single route to success.

There are apprenticeships, college, university, clearing, employment and plenty of opportunities to take a different path. Education should be about opening doors, not closing them.

That is why I was also pleased to see the Government announce that the UK will rejoin Erasmus+ from 2027. This will give students, apprentices, teachers and young people more opportunities to study, train and gain experience across Europe.

Closer to home, changes to school uniforms and free school meals will also help families. Limiting schools to three branded uniform items plus a secondary school tie will give parents more choice and could save around £50 per child each year. The expansion of free breakfast clubs and changes to free school meal eligibility will also help ensure children start the school day ready to learn.

Culture, music and community
August has also reminded me just how much community life in Erewash has to offer.

I was delighted to attend the Ilkeston Heritage and Classic Vehicle Show for the third time as your MP. The town centre was packed with classic cars, motorbikes, buses, steam vehicles and fascinating pieces of motoring history. It was another brilliant example of what can happen when local organisations, businesses, volunteers and residents come together.

I also had the chance to get behind the microphone at the Glow Music & Arts Festival in Ilkeston, where I was delighted to act as MC. The event brought together musicians, artists, stallholders, local businesses and the wider community, with some particularly impressive performances from young local musicians.

The weather eventually threw everything it had at us, with rain, storms and thunder, but people stuck around and kept the atmosphere going.

Grassroots culture matters. That is why I have also been talking about the Government’s £45 million Music Growth Package, which will support more than 40,000 artists and music professionals. Supporting small venues and giving young people opportunities to develop their talents is an investment in our culture and our communities.

I even managed to get behind a drum kit myself this month, thanks to local drum teacher Nishan Chady. It was tremendous fun, although I suspect my neighbours may not be quite as enthusiastic about my new hobby.

Standing up for local services
Not everything this month has been positive. I was extremely disappointed to learn that walk-in hours at Ilkeston’s Urgent Treatment Centre have temporarily been reduced, with walk-ins now restricted from 5pm rather than 8pm.

The centre only returned to walk-in provision in March 2025 following a great deal of campaigning by local people. I have therefore sought a meeting with the Derbyshire Integrated Care Board to understand why these changes have been necessary and what is being done to restore the service to full capacity.

I know how frustrating this will be for people who rely on the centre, particularly when the wider direction of travel should be towards bringing healthcare closer to people’s homes.

I will keep pushing for answers and for the service to return to full capacity as soon as possible.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s the things we’ve won on this month:

• Supported a family to secure alternative provision for their SEND child;

• Worked with Erewash Borough Council to secure housing for a homeless resident;

• Secured landowner enforcement for a sunken drain cover in Ilkeston;

• Helped ensure the safety surface at Victoria Park was made safe;

• Secured repairs to the damaged play area surface at Victoria Park;

• Helped restore a resident’s driving licence after DVLA delays;

• Got overgrown shrubbery cut back at Long Eaton Library;

• Secured repairs to a collapsed fence in Cotmanhay;

• Helped a resident secure a council tax discount and £460 rebate;

• Secured maintenance of an overgrown hedge on Wilne Road, Sawley;

• Helped secure a replacement bin for a resident after delays;

• Got an overgrown hedge on Midland Street, Long Eaton cut back;

• Helped a resident secure their Civil Service pension lump sum;

• Secured landowner enforcement on an overgrown hedge in Kirk Hallam;

• Arranged clearance of litter, broken glass and weeds from West Park tennis courts;

• Liaised with the council on new bin locations near the Long Eaton canal bridge;

• Supported a resident at risk of homelessness into social housing;

• Helped a resident secure their Blue Badge after renewal delays;

• Secured repairs to damaged pedestrian guardrails on Chalons Way, Ilkeston; and

• Raised concerns about fly-tipping in Ilkeston, prompting action to clear it.

Looking ahead
As summer recess comes to an end, I am heading back to Westminster with plenty more to do.

The conversations I have had across Erewash this month will continue to shape the work I do in Parliament. Whether that means fighting for Junction 25A, supporting local manufacturing, pushing for better public transport, standing up for our NHS services or making sure the £20 million Pride in Place investment delivers what Cotmanhay residents actually want, there is no shortage of work ahead.

But August has also been a useful reminder that being an MP is not just about what happens in Parliament. It is about being present in our communities, listening to people, supporting local organisations and making sure that the concerns I hear on the doorstep are carried with me into Westminster.

There is a lot to be proud of in Erewash. We have brilliant businesses, talented young people, fantastic community organisations, wonderful green spaces and people who care deeply about where they live.

My job is to make sure their voices are heard and to keep fighting for the investment, opportunities and public services that our communities deserve.

Their passengers, many of whom depend on its services, only found out from press reports on Saturday. How would they get the bus to work on Monday morning? Or make a first-thing doctors’ appointment? 60 employees and thousands of service users all left in the lurch.

CT4N were a Nottingham-based company, with the vast majority of their routes being within Nottinghamshire. So far as I can tell, their only Derbyshire service was the Number 29, running through Long Eaton and up to Sandiacre. While we still have some TrentBarton services, they all generally travel up main roads, going the fastest, most direct routes between key locations. The 29 offered a lot more coverage, connecting people who live further away from the main routes to Long Eaton town centre.

Older and disabled people, mothers with young children, and the lowest paid workers are all disproportionately dependent on buses to get around. Worst impacted, I think, are people on the Dales estate in Long Eaton, who are now entirely without a bus connection. There are plenty of pensioners who I can’t imagine will want to walk almost a mile just to reach the nearest bus stop. And what about, in a couple of weeks, when the schools go back and families need to get their kids to Dovedale Primary?

Sadly, this is a familiar story. People from Kirk Hallam tell me all the time about how much they miss their direct bus connection to the QMC in Nottingham, now having to endure multiple changes to get there. Ghost bus stops line Long Eaton’s Fields Farm estate, which also has no shops, schools, or services of any kind. People there talk to me about feeling isolated. There will be other routes, lost longer ago, that I don’t know about… and they will have been just as vital to the people that used them.

Since Monday morning, I’ve been speaking with our East Midlands Mayor, Claire Ward, to make sure work is being done to save the 29 bus route and others like it. I’m very impressed with the progress the mayor’s office has made so far, ensuring that the 18, which links Nottingham, Stapleford, Beeston and Bramcote barely missed a day of running. I seriously hope that, as in the 18’s case, a simple solution can be found, with a local bus company stepping up to take the service on.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a major change to how bus passes work. He’s ending the ban on disability bus passes being used before 9:30 AM. It is so wrong that, until now, disabled people were essentially banned from using their bus passes if they were trying to get to work in the morning. This kind of exclusion was not an accident. It demonstrates how, since the 1980s, our buses have been run in the interest of company bosses and private shareholders, not in the interests of the people who actually use them.

You only need to compare Nottingham and Derby to see the rot that has set in over the past 40 years. The cities are just 15 miles apart, but their public transport systems are in totally different worlds. Nottingham’s buses were never privatised and they remain, generally, highly functional and well-connected, while Derby has a patchy, disorganised network, strung between several different bus companies. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Nottingham has been named England’s least car-dependent city, while Derby’s economy is choked by endless traffic.

Despite the loss of CT4N here in the East Midlands, I think if you look around the country there are really positive signs emerging for England’s buses. In Manchester, Andy Burnham took buses back under local control through the Bee Network. And now as prime minister, he’s brought the bus fare cap back down to £2. In the West Midlands, their Mayor Richard Parker has recently taken the vast majority of their bus network into direct public ownership – just like it is in Nottingham.

Whatever it is, we need a solution here that works for local people, sooner rather than later. I’ll keep working with Mayor Claire Ward and her team to try and get the 29 bus route around Long Eaton and Sandiacre restored. But we’ve been trying this model, of private companies running our public services, for decades. For too long, people in Derbyshire have been left behind by companies chasing profits rather than serving local communities. Things need to change.

EDIT: This article was first published in the Derby Telegraph on Friday August 21st. Since it was written earlier in the week, the No. 29 bus has been saved thanks to work by our excellent East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward. The point remains the same - if we keep clinging to this broken model, this kind of thing will just continue to happen.

Not every day you go to town for a cuppa and bump into the Prime Minister, is it?

Today, the Prime Minister came to Ilkeston, and I was absolutely buzzing to welcome him alongside Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Claire Ward, the Mayor of the East Midlands.

Andy started with a walk up Bath Street, looking at some of the work Erewash Borough Council has been doing to improve the town centre, before heading into The Hub to meet me alongside residents, local business owners and community leaders. It was a useful opportunity to hear directly from people about what they want to see from Ilkeston and what they think needs to change.

That conversation sits within a much bigger challenge facing high streets across the country. For years, we have watched local services disappear from town centres, while other types of businesses have expanded into the space that has been left behind. Vape shops and adult gaming centres are perhaps the most obvious examples, but the wider issue is what happens when a town loses the mix of shops, services and businesses that made people want to visit in the first place.

There are many reasons why high streets have struggled. The growth of online shopping has changed consumer habits, business costs have risen and some town centres have struggled to adapt. There isn’t a single answer to all of those problems. But planning policy does matter, because it determines how much influence councils and communities have over what happens in their own town centres.

At the moment, that influence isn’t always strong enough.

The Government is changing the planning rules so that, from the new year, vape shops and adult gaming centres will need planning permission before opening. That gives councils and local residents an opportunity to have a proper say over whether those businesses are appropriate for a particular location.

There will also be stronger powers to prevent vape shops opening in inappropriate places, including near schools, and to tackle the clustering of vape shops on the same high street. The definition of a vape shop will also be tightened, so that businesses cannot avoid the rules by presenting themselves as a general convenience store when their main business is actually selling vapes.

I think there is an important distinction here. This isn’t about saying that every vape shop or every gambling business is illegitimate. It is about recognising that the cumulative effect of businesses on a town centre matters, and that local councils and communities should have the ability to respond when they think that a particular pattern of development is damaging their high street.

The same principle applies to gambling premises. The Government intends to consult on revoking the “aim to permit” rule in the 2005 Gambling Act, which currently restricts the circumstances in which councils can refuse new gambling premises. The intention is to give councils greater scope to respond where there are strong local concerns, particularly where there is a concentration of gambling premises in a particular area.

There is also a more serious side to this work. Where premises are suspected of being linked to organised crime, police and local authorities need enough time to investigate properly. The Government will therefore legislate to double the maximum length of Closure Orders from six months to twelve months. That should make it harder for rogue operators to simply wait for a closure to expire and reopen before investigations have been completed.

All of this is ultimately about giving local government more of the tools it needs to manage its own town centres.

But planning rules alone aren’t going to revitalise our high streets. We also need investment, good public spaces, successful local businesses and attractive town centres that people actually want to spend time in.

That’s why I was pleased that part of the announcement is focused on the physical appearance of our high streets as well. Over the next six months, councils will receive practical support to improve shopfronts, signs and the overall look and feel of their town centres, backed by the Planning Advisory Service.

That matters more than it might sound. A high street is a collection of individual businesses, but it is also a shared public space. The condition of the buildings, the quality of the shopfronts, the signage and the general appearance of the town all contribute to how people experience it.

In Ilkeston, we’ve already got examples of what can be achieved when there is investment and a clear effort to improve the town centre. The work Erewash Borough Council has been doing is important, and it was good to be able to show some of it to the Prime Minister.

But I also know from talking to residents and businesses that there is a lot more they want to see.

For me, the important thing about these changes is that they start to put some of the decision-making power back into the hands of the people who actually live and work in these places. If residents are concerned about the concentration of certain businesses on their High Street, they should have a meaningful way of expressing that concern. If councils want to protect the character of a town centre, they should have the planning tools to do it. And if there are rogue operators using premises for criminal activity, the authorities should have the powers and the time they need to deal with them.

The visit to Ilkeston gave us a chance to talk about all of that in a very practical way, with people who actually use the high street every day.

I want Ilkeston to have a town centre where people can spend a Saturday afternoon, meet friends, go for a coffee, do their shopping, access services and support local businesses. That won’t happen simply because we change a planning rule, but giving communities more control over the future of their high street is an important part of making it possible.

There is plenty more work to do, both in Ilkeston and across the country. But I think this is a sensible step towards giving our town centres a better future, and I’m pleased that Ilkeston was able to be part of the conversation.

Like every month as your MP, July has been a month spent listening to residents, supporting local businesses, celebrating community organisations and taking the concerns of local people back into Parliament. Alongside my work in Westminster, I’ve been fortunate to spend time in every corner of the constituency, meeting lots of people and seeing first hand the incredible work taking place across our towns and villages. Whether it has been at constituency surgeries, on factory floors, at family fun days or simply stopping for a coffee in one of our brilliant independent cafés, every conversation has helped shape the work I do on behalf of our community.

Listening to residents
One of the most important parts of being an MP is making time to listen, and this month that has meant holding constituency surgeries across Erewash.

Throughout July I met residents in Kirk Hallam, Long Eaton and Breaston, with each surgery bringing a completely different range of issues. We discussed everything from planning applications and science funding through to pensions, disability rights, accessibility, veterans’ issues, problems with public services and a host of individual cases that simply cannot be shared publicly because of their personal nature.

Many people only contact their MP when they have exhausted every other option. For some, walking through the door of a constituency surgery is genuinely a last resort. My team and I never take that responsibility lightly. Every case is treated with care and confidentiality and we work hard every day to help residents navigate organisations and public bodies when they feel stuck.

I was also delighted to meet Feras from Feras Barbers in Ilkeston. Having come to Britain as a refugee from Syria, he has built a successful business in our town centre and now wants to give something back by offering free haircuts to elderly, disabled and vulnerable residents. It was an inspiring reminder of the generosity that exists throughout our community.

Knocking on doors
As always, there has been plenty of time spent out on the doorstep.

During the month I joined the team knocking doors across Larklands, Sawley, Long Eaton and Sandiacre. These conversations are invaluable because they provide an honest picture of what people are thinking about local services, national politics and the issues affecting their day to day lives.

The conversations in Sandiacre were particularly important, taking place in the neighbourhoods that suffered so badly during Storm Babet. While flooding understandably remains a major concern, it was encouraging to hear from residents who had been able to benefit from the Government’s Property Flood Resilience Scheme to help better protect their homes. We also discussed what more can be done to reduce flood risk in the future and improve local resilience.

Whether people agree with me or challenge me, I always appreciate those conversations. They make me a better representative because they ensure that the issues I raise in Westminster reflect the experiences of people here in Erewash.

Supporting local businesses
One of the real pleasures of this job is meeting the businesses that keep our local economy moving.

This month I visited Carter’s Prestige on Bath Street to hear about their growing flooring business and, just as importantly, their charity work supporting local veterans. It is always inspiring to see businesses that not only create jobs but also invest back into their communities.

I also enjoyed spending time with the team at Wade Spring in Long Eaton. Having spent a decade working in manufacturing research before entering Parliament, I always enjoy getting onto factory floors and talking directly with engineers and manufacturers. We had an excellent discussion about steel, advanced manufacturing, the future of British industry and the opportunities available to businesses here in Erewash. Our manufacturing heritage is something to be proud of, but even more exciting is the innovation taking place today.

July also saw me visiting several fantastic independent businesses including The Square Hideaway, a wonderful new café and sensory space for children in Long Eaton. It was great to see the impact of Erewash Borough Council’s Shop Sign Grant helping bring another empty unit back to life and creating an even more attractive High Street.

Supporting independents has also given me the perfect excuse to sample some excellent local food and drink. From breakfast at The Junction Café, banana milkshakes at Copper Cogs and a coffee porter at Beestonia to a toastie at The Square Hideaway and a chip cob from Captain Kirk’s, it has certainly been a busy month for my taste buds. Every visit is a reminder that supporting local businesses means supporting local jobs and helping our town centres thrive.

Celebrating our community
Erewash has an incredible community spirit and July provided countless opportunities to celebrate it.

Sawley Park Fun Day was a brilliant example, with families enjoying a packed day of activities, entertainment and community stalls. My egg managed to survive the Scouts’ egg drop challenge and I even found time for a pizza from Tossed Dough along the way.

I also attended the Every One Eats Family Fun Day at the Stute in Ilkeston. It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying themselves together and to recognise the huge amount of volunteer effort that goes into organising events like these. Community events do not happen by accident and everyone involved deserves enormous credit.

Another highlight was speaking at the opening of the new visitor centre and café at Bennerley Viaduct. This iconic structure has connected Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire for generations and the new facilities will help even more visitors discover its remarkable history. Heritage projects like this are about much more than preserving the past. They support tourism, encourage walking and cycling and bring new opportunities for local businesses.

I was also delighted to attend Long Eaton Rugby Club’s annual dinner, celebrating another successful year for the club and recognising the outstanding contribution made by outgoing president Duncan Gooch. I may even have made the mistake of promising to join a training session later this year. Time will tell whether my schoolboy experience at prop has survived!

Campaigns that make a difference
One story this month particularly stayed with me.

Earlier this year I met Ian and Christine Redfern following the tragic death of their son Adam from cardiac arrest. Through the Adam Redfern Memorial Fund they have worked tirelessly to improve awareness of defibrillators and ensure they can be located quickly during emergencies.

After our meeting I contacted local schools whose Automated External Defibrillators were not registered on The Circuit, the British Heart Foundation’s national defibrillator network. I was delighted that ten schools have since registered their devices, leaving only a handful still to do so. It is a simple step that could genuinely help save lives.

It was a powerful reminder that some of the most meaningful work an MP can do comes from listening carefully to determined local campaigners who simply want to prevent other families experiencing the same heartbreak.

Representing Erewash nationally
Alongside constituency work, July has been a significant month in Westminster.

Following changes in Government, I was honoured to be reappointed as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Home Secretary and across the wider Home Office. It is a privilege to continue serving in Government and it gives me an important opportunity to ensure that the voices of people in Erewash are heard directly by ministers as decisions are made.

I also continued explaining Government policy through videos and public meetings, covering a wide range of issues that matter to residents.

We announced the removal of VAT from domestic energy bills from October, providing additional help with household costs. We also confirmed a twenty per cent reduction in business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from next April, supporting the businesses that play such an important role in our communities.

Other announcements included reforms to improve veterinary care by increasing transparency for pet owners, recognising veterinary nurses and strengthening oversight of veterinary businesses. We also set out plans to reform the SEND system, with earlier intervention, more specialist places and better support for children with additional needs.

Finally, the Government published its latest State of Climate and Nature Statement, outlining further investment in habitat restoration, new National Forests and climate technologies to protect our environment for future generations.

Staying connected
One of the ways I enjoy keeping in touch with residents is through my regular appearances on Erewash Sound.

This month’s visit to the breakfast show was another opportunity to discuss local events, parliamentary developments and some of the work taking place across the constituency. We looked back at judging the Long Eaton Carnival floats, talked about the upcoming Show and Glow festival and discussed wider national issues.

Local media remains incredibly important because it helps communities stay informed and connected, and I am always grateful to Paul Stacey and the whole team for the warm welcome they give me every month.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s the things we’ve won on this month:

• Helped a resident secure their driving licence after DVLA delays.

• Secured repairs to a damaged drain causing flooding in Breaston.

• Supported residents facing delays to their Civil Service pensions.

• Worked with Councillor Kate Fennelly to reopen the Crompton Road access to the Nutbrook Trail.

• Helped a resident secure their pension and lump sum after delays.

• Worked with Erewash Borough Council to maintain hedges around Long Eaton Library.

• Got EMH to schedule works to a tree damaging a resident’s garden.

• Secured a replacement boiler for a social housing tenant.

• Helped a resident secure their medical driving licence after DVLA delays.

• Got a large pothole repaired on Cedar Avenue in Long Eaton.

• Worked with Erewash Borough Council to remove racist graffiti on Abbey Street in Ilkeston.

• Secured repairs to a pothole in Sandiacre that was disturbing residents.

• Liaised with residents over the replacement of the wheelchair hoist at West Park Leisure Centre.

• Helped a resident secure their NHS pension after delays.

• Got shaky railings on Beauvale Drive in Ilkeston added to Derbyshire County Council’s maintenance programme.

• Supported a local SEND school to help keep it on track to open in September following Ofsted delays.

Looking ahead
As we move into August there is certainly no sign of things slowing down. Parliament continues to present new challenges while the summer provides even more opportunities to meet residents at community events, visit local businesses and continue holding constituency surgeries across Erewash.

Every month reinforces just how fortunate I am to represent such a vibrant, hardworking and community minded constituency. Whether I am helping residents through difficult personal situations, speaking to manufacturers about the future of British industry, opening new community facilities or simply enjoying a coffee in one of our independent cafés, every day brings fresh opportunities to learn more about the place we all call home.

Thank you to everyone who has welcomed me, stopped for a chat on the doorstep, invited me into their workplace or attended one of my surgeries this month. Your ideas, concerns and experiences continue to shape the work I do in Westminster and here in Erewash. I look forward to seeing many more of you over the weeks ahead.

Adam Thompson

It is always an honour to speak in the Adjournment debate in memory of Sir David Amess. As is traditional, I will endeavour to cram as many topics as I can into my contribution before we break for the summer recess.

I will discuss recent knife crime in Ilkeston. While it would not be appropriate for me to discuss any one individual case in detail, some incidents recently have affected my community deeply. As always, my thoughts are with those affected. I will continue to engage with the families of those involved and the wider community over the summer, as well as our local police, our police and crime commissioner, Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts, and local councillors from across the political spectrum as we work together to make our community safer.

Let me briefly address East Midlands Railway, a service that I use regularly to travel between Erewash and London. This week, EMR has continued to operate a reduced timetable, citing the impact of recent hot weather. While extreme weather can affect rail services, passengers have faced disruption and shortcomings for years, and the hot weather is not going away. The introduction of the new Aurora fleet is very much welcome, but progress has been very slow. In the meantime, passengers are relying on the ageing class 222 Meridian trains, which lack modern amenities such as properly functional wi-fi. Passengers deserve a reliable, modern railway, and I hope the roll-out of the Aurora fleet accelerates to deliver the improvements long promised on the midland main line.

Supporting grassroots music has always mattered to me, both as a former gigging musician and as the MP for Erewash. Last summer, I spoke in this debate about the importance of protecting the small venues that give new artists their first opportunities and bring communities together through live music. Since then, I have been out and seen a stack of bands at grassroots gigs, because those venues and acts thrive only when people show up. Grassroots music is about more than entertainment; it creates jobs, strengthens our communities and gives the next generation of artists somewhere to begin their journey—and, often, it is something for young people to do. However, the problems of venue closures, poor pay for artists and high prices for tickets endures, so, to repeat my sentiment from last time: colleagues and friends, please go and see a band this summer.

I have some quick-fire points. The Big Paddle Cleanup is Paddle UK’s wonderful initiative designed to clean up our waterways, and I thank all volunteers for their work. I am really excited that Bennerley viaduct visitor centre is formally opening this week, and I very much look forward to my first coffee there. I wish a very happy anniversary to Manor fish bar in Ilkeston, which is currently celebrating 20 years of fantastic chips. Treetops hospice in Risley is an amazing local charity that provides hospice at-home support for thousands of Derbyshire families using its innovative provision model, and I hope to engage with the Health Secretary after recess to discuss that model.

Let me give a shout-out to my barber, Ev Swift, who is essentially a core member of my team at this point. He is always there to put a smile on my face, and he is far more famous on Instagram than I am, so do give him a follow—my guy is hilarious. I give an invitation to all Members: they are very welcome to join me for a creamy pint this summer in the Sawley Junction, the Burnt Pig or the Hoptimist over recess. I have one more point: may I beg Reform on Derbyshire county council to sort out the potholes? They are a right state.

I am sure that every Member across the House values the contribution of their own teams; we have heard from various colleagues about them and all the work that they do. I put on record my thanks to my incredible team. To Becca, Curtis, Harrison, Hollie, Jude, Robert, Ruby and Vikki, I express my very sincere thanks for everything that you do. Similarly, I thank my colleagues on Erewash borough council; James Dawson and our mayor, Greg Maskalick, are doing wonderful work.

I have covered as many topics as I can this afternoon— I have several further discarded pages that I would have raised had I had the time. As we head into this recess, I thank again my team, my colleagues on the council, all the staff in the House—particularly those retiring this summer—and everyone who works so hard behind the scenes to keep this place running. I wish all Members a restful and wonderful summer, and I look forward to returning in September to continue making the case for Erewash. Happy recess, Madam Deputy Speaker.

June has been a busy and rewarding month, both here in Erewash and further afield. As ever, much of my time has been spent meeting residents, supporting local organisations, listening to concerns and making the case for our area in Westminster and beyond. It has also been a month that has highlighted the strength of our communities, from volunteers and carers to young people, apprentices and local campaigners who work every day to improve the places we call home.

Looking back over the past few weeks, I am struck by how much of what I have done comes back to a simple principle. Politics works best when it is rooted in people, places and practical action. Whether celebrating achievements, addressing local concerns or discussing the future direction of our country, my focus remains on making sure Erewash has a strong voice and a fair deal.

Celebrating skills, education and opportunity
One of the highlights of the month was returning to the University of Nottingham to celebrate the first cohort of degree-level electromechanical engineering apprentices completing their five-year programmes. Before entering Parliament, I taught on those apprenticeships, so seeing those young engineers present their final projects and talk about the careers they are now embarking upon was particularly special.

Much has been said in recent years about the importance of skills and technical education, but there is nothing quite like seeing the outcomes in person. These apprentices have developed enormously over the past five years and many have already secured excellent jobs. Their success is a testament not only to their own hard work but also to the dedication of the university staff who helped guide them.

Education was also a theme later in the month when I welcomed pupils from English Martyrs’ Catholic Voluntary Academy to Parliament. School visits are always among my favourite engagements because young people invariably ask some of the most thoughtful and challenging questions. It is important that every young person has the opportunity to engage with our democratic institutions and to understand how decisions are made.

Alongside that, I was delighted to learn more about the training of new Mental Health Support Teams in Derbyshire. Evidence from elsewhere in the country has demonstrated the positive impact these teams can have on pupils’ wellbeing, attendance and attainment. Supporting young people with their mental health is increasingly important, not only for their education but for their future opportunities and life chances.

Investing in communities for the long term
A particularly significant moment this month was attending the first meeting of the new Cotmanhay Neighbourhood Board.

Last year, we secured £20 million of investment for Cotmanhay, to be spent over the course of a decade. What makes this programme different is that local people will guide its direction. Rather than having decisions imposed from above, residents, businesses and community representatives will help shape the future of their area.

The board now has the task of developing a long-term vision and a detailed programme of projects. While some may be frustrated that visible spending is not beginning immediately, I strongly believe that taking the time to get this right is essential. After years of being overlooked, communities such as Cotmanhay deserve thoughtful, sustained investment rather than short-term announcements.

Across Erewash, I continue to hear from residents about local priorities and aspirations. Those conversations are invaluable and help ensure that major investment reflects the needs and ambitions of the people who live there.

The strength of voluntary action
June also provided several opportunities to celebrate the extraordinary contribution made by volunteers across our communities.

At the Erewash Community Celebration at Long Eaton Rugby Club, organised by Erewash Voluntary Action, I met volunteers and representatives from numerous charities, community groups and local organisations. The breadth of their work was remarkable. Whether tackling loneliness, supporting older people, helping young people or promoting wellbeing, these groups make an enormous difference to daily life across our borough.

I was honoured to present awards recognising outstanding voluntary contributions. Such recognition can never fully capture the impact volunteers have, but it is important to take time to thank those who so often work quietly behind the scenes.

I also spent time at the Draycott Open Gardens Festival, a wonderful showcase of community spirit, creativity and local pride. Residents opened their gardens, volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes and visitors enjoyed a fantastic weekend that will help support future community projects. Events such as these remind us that strong communities are built through countless acts of generosity and participation.

Later in the month, Long Eaton Carnival once again demonstrated the very best of local life. The parade, stalls and entertainment drew thousands of people together and created another memorable day for the town. None of it would be possible without the volunteers who spend months fundraising, planning and organising. Their commitment deserves enormous credit.

Supporting carers and recognising unseen contributions
During Carers Week, I attended a special event at Ilkeston Hospital celebrating carers and recognising their immense contribution to society.

Too often, unpaid carers go unnoticed despite the vital role they play in supporting family members and loved ones. The discussions during the event highlighted both the scale of unpaid caring responsibilities and the challenges many carers face. It was particularly encouraging to see Derbyshire Community Health Services receive recognition as a carer-friendly employer.

Meeting organisations such as Derbyshire Carers Association and the Centre for Care reinforced the importance of ensuring carers have access to support, understanding and practical assistance. As our population changes and caring responsibilities affect more families, this work will only become more important.

Listening to residents and tackling local concerns
One of the most important parts of my role is simply getting out and speaking to people.

This month, I spent time door knocking on the Norfolk Road estate in Long Eaton, talking directly with residents about the issues affecting their daily lives. Concerns ranging from tree maintenance and grass cutting to potholes and general environmental upkeep may not always generate headlines, but they matter enormously to the people dealing with them.

These conversations allow me to raise problems with the relevant authorities and help ensure that local voices are heard. I firmly believe that representatives should listen throughout the year, not just during election campaigns.

Maintaining that connection with residents remains one of my core priorities. No report or briefing paper can substitute for hearing directly from people about their experiences and concerns.

Environment, waterways and local improvements
Protecting and improving our local environment featured prominently during June.

I was delighted to take part once again in the Big Paddle Clean Up alongside Paddle UK and local Sea Scouts. Spending time on our waterways collecting litter may seem like a modest activity, but it speaks to a wider commitment to protecting our natural environment and ensuring future generations can enjoy clean and thriving blue spaces.

The event also coincided with important national discussions about future water reform. Environmental stewardship requires both local action and meaningful policy change, and I was pleased to support efforts on both fronts.

Another positive development was the opening of the new Britannia Mill Bridge in Long Eaton. This project represents a significant improvement in local connectivity, making it easier for residents to access the canal, river and town centre on foot or by bicycle. Projects such as this often take years to deliver, but seeing them finally come to fruition is immensely satisfying.

Standing up for local banking services
One issue that generated significant concern this month was the announcement that Lloyds Bank intends to close its Ilkeston branch next year.

Like many residents, I was disappointed by the decision. Physical banking services remain essential for many people, particularly older residents and those who may struggle with digital alternatives.

Following the announcement, I sought an urgent meeting with senior representatives from the bank. While I remain concerned about the broader trend of banks withdrawing from town centres, I welcomed commitments that community banking services would continue to be provided locally and that support would be available for customers transitioning to online banking where appropriate.

I will continue engaging with Lloyds to ensure those commitments are delivered and that local residents remain informed about future arrangements.

Reflecting on national events
Not every event during the month was positive. I was deeply saddened by the train collision near Bedford on the East Midlands Main Line. As someone who regularly uses rail services across our region, I know how closely connected many local people feel to these routes. My thoughts remain with everyone affected and with the emergency services who responded so professionally.

I also joined fellow MPs in responding to the publication of Donna Ockenden’s report into maternity services at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust. The findings were deeply troubling and underline the importance of accountability, transparency and meaningful improvement across our healthcare system.
At the national political level, June saw significant developments following Keir Starmer’s resignation as Prime Minister and Labour leader. While leadership transitions inevitably attract attention, my own focus remains on delivering for Erewash. The people who elected me expect practical results rather than endless political speculation and that remains my guiding principle.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s the things we’ve won on this month:

• Secured £1,000 in Pension Credit arrears for a resident and increased their future payments following DWP delays;

• Prevented an elderly resident from being evicted from their care home;

• Got Severn Trent to complete works beneath a resident’s property to prevent subsidence;

• Ensured play equipment in West Park was cleaned;

• Helped a Sandiacre resident reduce unfair parking charges from nearly £1,000 to £70;

• Got the school warning light on Cavendish Road in Ilkeston repaired;

• Worked with the council to address overflowing bins on Palmerston Road in Ilkeston;

• Supported a resident in securing compensation after their car was damaged by a pothole;

• Prevented a working mother with a newborn baby from unfairly losing her Universal Credit;

• Helped a resident secure the documentation needed to confirm their status, obtain a passport and return to work;

• Worked with the council to secure replacement play equipment at Granby Park in Ilkeston;

• Liaised with Erewash Borough Council to ensure continued maintenance of Norfolk Road Park in Long Eaton;

• Worked with the council to secure replacement goalposts for Springfield Park in Sandiacre;

• Got EMH to expedite works so a resident could move into their new home;

• Secured repairs to a dangerous pothole on Cotmanhay Road in Ilkeston; and

• Helped a resident rearrange a DWP assessment that had been booked during their holiday.

Looking ahead
As June came to a close, I spent time meeting with Andy Burnham and discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the East Midlands.

Our conversations covered transport, infrastructure, devolution, high streets, universities and economic growth. Above all, we discussed how regions such as ours can secure the investment and decision-making powers needed to succeed. For too long, places like Erewash have seen growth constrained by underinvestment in infrastructure and a lack of local control.

That is why I continue to advocate for measures that give communities more power over their own futures. Whether it is improving transport links, delivering projects such as Junction 25A, supporting apprenticeships, strengthening local services or investing in town centres, the goal is the same: creating good jobs, stronger communities and better opportunities.

The month has once again demonstrated what makes Erewash special. It is the volunteers who give their time, the carers who support loved ones, the teachers who inspire young people, the community groups that bring people together and the residents who care deeply about where they live.

Their commitment gives me optimism for the future. As we move into the second half of the year, I will continue working to ensure that Erewash’s voice is heard and that our communities receive the attention, investment and opportunities they deserve.

Adam Thompson:

Thank you, Madam Deputy speaker. It’s a joy to speak today in the estimates debate on sport and youth services, particularly after I spent my weekend joining the furniture makers company for their annual tug of war in West Park in Long Eaton. Erewash has a long history of furniture making and our enduring local businesses get together every year to celebrate their industry, with their families, over a rather spectacular tug of war. They even let me have a go. Very proud to say my side lost. And I didn’t do so well staying on the rodeo rugby ball either.

The reason I raise this, though, madam deputy speaker, is the event took place on West Park, a local hub for grassroots sport, with West Park leisure centre, Long Eaton rugby club, Long Eaton Cricket Club, our skate park, various football clubs, our splashpad and a very popular parkrun all calling it home. I was struck, as I walked around the park, by some of the investment put into the park by our fantastic Erewash Borough councillors.

New lighting, a new events space and, currently under construction, a brand new, flagship bridge and waterfront space, currently being built as part of the Town Deal fund. A strong example of real cross-party commitment to local redevelopment, the project is going to help reboot the town as a local economic and leisure hub, linking the town centre to the park with a stunning contribution to improving active transport in the area.

In Ilkeston, too, we have seen huge investment in our parks. With a new park and several upgrades to existing parks planned across the town and some already completed. New lighting on Victoria Park and in Rutland Park next to the Leisure Centre, to ensure that people can feel safe using our great facilities in the darker months. Johnny’s Park in Ilkeston has been radically transformed. Like so many parks in Ilkeston, it had been neglected for decades. Paint peeling away. Equipment rusted. An insult to families in Ilkeston, in truth. Now, it has been wholly replaced with a modern, high quality, play park that Ilkeston families deserve. I must add, Madam Deputy Speaker, that all this new investment has been achieved without a rise in Council tax this year! That’s the difference the Erewash Labour team are making locally.

Similarly, Kirk Hallam is receiving funding from Sports England as part of their £250 million ‘Our Place Partnerships’ scheme. Locally, this means building community spaces and improving sporting environments – a focus on youth sports and improving people’s ability to look after their health. I am very glad that residents will have a huge say in how this money will be spent; ensuring the best for their community.

And all this sits, Madam Deputy Speaker, in front of further ongoing investment in grassroots sport across the country, such as the nearly one thousand community projects across the UK, that this Labour government announced in January. With funding focussed on our most deprived communities, and particularly on women and girls’ participation in sports, I’m very pleased that the government is focusing so heavily on improving low-cost access to sport in our communities.

Erewash was lucky enough to benefit from one of these recent projects, with Long Eaton United Football Club receiving a Football Foundation grant of nearly £20,000 to contribute towards a £56,000 project to upgrade floodlights on Grange Park, increasing the community’s access to sport in those dark winter evenings.

This grant forms just a small part of the great expansions to grassroots sports funding that the government built into the spending review, with £400 million committed to delivering new pitches, changing pavilions, floodlighting and facilities to support physical education, health initiatives and community outreach.

As we know, Madam Deputy Speaker, for every pound spent on community sport and physical activity, over £4 is generated for the economy and society. This investment in grassroots sport, and it is, real, investment, supports our local economies and saves the public in NHS spending in the long run by promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

I should also shout out the Manor Foundation, here – a charitable organisation in Ilkeston who have created a welcoming community hub that reduces social isolation, promotes health and wellbeing, and supports positive futures. I recently attended another of their Football and Fun days at Ilkeston Town FC, where they champion girls’ football and coaching, alongside the brilliant Will Garvey Trust Foundation, who raise awareness of mental health struggles for young people.

This past weekend, I also met with one of my constituents, Chris Lawton, who is director at Skate Nottingham, a non-profit place-making, sports development and alternative education organisation rooted in Nottingham’s globally significant skateboarding community. Chris took me to visit Colwick skate park, in my honourable friend, the member for Gedling’s constituency, to show me the work he is doing with Skate Nottingham, Gedling Borough Council and Colwick Parish council, in rebuilding the Joshua Dale Skate Park.

Chris, alongside local parish councillors Meredith Lawrence and Abby Booker, talked me through how they’re using their recently awarded £10,000 Common Ground Award from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, for community organisations to access capital investment to strengthen social cohesion by improving civic spaces. I saw the foundations of a new ramp, forming part of extensive work that Skate Nottingham are doing on the skate park in coming months and years.

As a recent convert to a cheeky roller blade around West Park and having been raised on Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, that’s stuff I love to see!

Anyway, Madam Deputy Speaker – lots and lots happening in grassroots sport at the moment and it’s great to see the government providing the funding it needs to make it happen – long may that continue.

At every general election since the Erewash constituency was created in 1983, voters here have chosen the winning party and elected a government MP. For more than forty years, the path to power in this country has always run through Erewash. Yet in that time, the places we love have been left behind. Good jobs went away, our high streets have emptied out, and austerity left our public services and infrastructure in tatters. In 2024, people in Erewash voted for change, and they meant it.

There is a part of the United Kingdom where the change Erewash needs is already being made. Where the economy has grown fast, and good new jobs are being created all the time. Young people choose to stay, rather than move elsewhere in search of opportunity. Buses are cheaper, higher quality, and under local control, so that they serve people rather than shareholders. That’s not just growth measured in shiny skyscrapers, either - the roads have fewer potholes and bin collections are more efficient. As Mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017, Andy Burnham has achieved all of this.

What struck me when I went to knock doors in Makerfield was that people spoke about Andy like they knew him. Because, in some sense, they did. An ordinary, working-class man who grew up in the area, started his family there and sent his kids to local schools. He’d helped them with casework. And he’d changed Manchester, from post-industrial northern city to burgeoning economic powerhouse. They knew that Andy was on their side - someone who understood their lives and their concerns, because he had lived them. Rather than fear and division, what Andy offered was hope.

The other thing I’ll say about Makerfield, is that it didn’t seem alien to me. It’s a long drive away, but it’s England. There was lingering evidence of by-gone industrial greatness, like in Ilkeston. They were doing big, long-delayed works on the high street in Ashton, just like in Long Eaton. As I went to different parts of the constituency, they reminded me of Cotmanhay, and of Fields Farm, and of Sandiacre. That gives me hope that Andy understands not just what people need in Greater Manchester, but what we need here in Derbyshire too. And that hope is why I’ll be supporting Andy Burnham to be our next Prime Minister.

This morning, Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Prime Minister and Leader of the Labour Party. I believe that he will be able to look back at his time in government and be proud of its achievements. Our economy is growing faster, inflation is under control and average wages are up. NHS waiting lists are falling rapidly, as is net migration, and significant extra funding has come to help fix our schools, hospitals, roads and communities - like the £20 million we secured for Cotmanhay.

With that said, I agree with Keir, that he is no longer the person best placed to lead our country. No matter what your politics, I think that we are all sick and tired of the constant political manoeuvring and endless speculation that has too often consumed Westminster and the British media. For my part, I’ve been trying to get on with the job. My focus has always been on working hard for Erewash, and that won’t change, regardless of who the Prime Minister is.

As to what happens next, I’ll be watching very closely, just like all of you. We all know that, despite notable progress, Britain still needs to be fixed. The economy needs to work better for ordinary people - families, pensioners and the workers whose efforts keep our country running. Regarding prospective candidates: I know many of my fellow Labour MPs have strong records of hard work, public service and delivery, and I am sure the right person to be our next prime minister will soon be forthcoming. As always, I’ll keep striving to make sure that your voices are heard at Westminster.

Over the past month, I have spent my time doing exactly what I was elected to do: standing up for working people, listening to residents, and making sure that national decisions reflect the realities of life here in Erewash. From new protections for renters and the future of British industry, to conversations on our doorsteps and in our town centres, May has been busy, varied and rooted in our community. I have seen first-hand both the challenges we face and the strength we have when we work together to overcome them.

Standing up for renters
We began the month with a landmark moment for millions of people across the country, including a significant number of residents here in Erewash. The long-awaited reforms to renters’ rights are now in force, marking the most substantial improvement in protections for private renters in decades.

For too long, renters have lived with uncertainty, facing the threat of no-fault eviction and unpredictable rent increases. That has now changed. Section 21 evictions have been abolished, landlords can only increase rent once per year and tenants now have the ability to challenge unfair rises. We have also banned exploitative bidding wars and capped upfront rent payments, while ensuring that families with children or people receiving benefits cannot be discriminated against.

These are not abstract policy changes. They are practical protections that will make a real difference to people’s lives. Importantly, funds and powers have been made available to local councils to enforce these rights effectively. Erewash Borough Council has already stepped up, putting in place a dedicated team to ensure that renters benefit from the full weight of the law. After years of imbalance, we are finally restoring fairness to the rental market.

Out and about in Ilkeston
Much of my work takes place not in Westminster but out in the community, and that was certainly the case during a sunny day spent walking through Ilkeston. Joined by local Labour colleagues, I had the chance to speak to residents, visit independent businesses and pick up local issues directly.

From a flat white at The HUB to lunch at a much-loved local chippy, these visits are about more than enjoying what our towns have to offer. They are about listening. Conversations in places like Victoria Park and on the Elka’s Rise estate provided insight into the concerns people carry and the pride they have in their town. Later in the day, I also had the opportunity to catch up with local police officers, whose work remains vital in keeping our communities safe.

These walkabouts are invaluable. They remind me that behind every policy debate is a lived experience, and they keep me focused on what matters most day to day.

Supporting community services
Another highlight this month was visiting the OnUp daytime centre in Sandiacre. The work being done there is nothing short of inspiring. Supporting adults with additional needs, the team delivers not just care but empowerment, helping individuals to build skills, confidence and independence.

Spending time with service users and staff, seeing the personalised plans in action and sharing in the warmth of the centre brought home the importance of community-based support. These services help people to live fuller lives and play an active role in our society. They deserve recognition, investment and stability.

The visit also served as a reminder that policy decisions must always consider their real-world impact on services like these. It is not enough to speak about support in general terms. We must ensure it reaches the people who rely on it most.

Revitalising our town centres
The future of our town centres continues to be a major priority. In discussions with the Long Eaton Business Partnership, I heard encouraging ideas about how we can build vibrant, attractive spaces that people want to spend time in.

A recent survey made something very clear. People want to use their town centres, but they need more reasons to stay. That means more than just retail. It means a mix of leisure, hospitality, culture and community spaces that make a visit worthwhile.

There is already incredible grassroots energy behind this work. From initiatives in Long Eaton to the ongoing efforts supporting Ilkeston’s independent shops, we are beginning to develop a model of regeneration rooted in local knowledge and collaboration. I have been sharing these insights with colleagues in government, because what we are building here could serve as a template for other towns across the country.

Standing with school staff
One of the more serious moments this month came with a visit to the picket line at St John Houghton secondary school in Kirk Hallam. Staff were striking in response to proposed cuts, raising concerns about the future of a school that holds a central place in the community.

Speaking with teachers, support staff and union representatives, it was clear that this dispute is about more than budgets. It is about ensuring that schools have the resources they need to provide a high-quality education, and that staff feel valued and supported in their roles.

I have been in contact with all parties involved and will continue to work with fellow MPs in the region to find a constructive path forward. Our priority must always be the wellbeing and education of students, alongside fair treatment for the staff who support them.

Walking in someone else’s shoes
Perhaps the most formative experience of the month was spending time navigating Ilkeston from the perspective of a wheelchair user. Joining a local resident on her daily school run gave me a completely different understanding of accessibility in our town.

What should be a simple journey was often difficult and, at times, unsafe. Broken pavements, narrow spaces and poorly designed crossings created constant obstacles. Beyond the physical challenges, there was also an emotional impact, a sense of being in the way or overlooked.

This experience has stayed with me. It has reinforced the need to embed accessibility into every aspect of planning and infrastructure. Improvements are not just about convenience. They are about dignity and equality. We must do better, and I will be taking this perspective into future discussions and decisions.

Explaining our democracy
As the State Opening of Parliament approached, I took the opportunity to explain the significance of the King’s Speech. While rich in tradition, the event serves a vital purpose, setting out the government’s legislative agenda for the year ahead.

It is a reminder that our democratic process combines history and accountability. The speech itself, written by the government and delivered by the monarch, sets the tone for parliamentary debate. MPs then scrutinise and debate its contents, culminating in a vote that reflects confidence in the government.

Understanding how these processes work is important. They shape the laws that affect our everyday lives, and they rely on active engagement from both representatives and the public.

Tackling high street crime
Our high streets face a range of challenges, and this month we took a significant step in addressing one of the more troubling developments. Across the country, a proliferation of dubious retail outlets has raised concerns about money laundering, illegal goods and wider criminal activity.

In response, a new High Street Organised Crime Unit is being established to tackle these issues head on. Working alongside local councils and enforcement agencies, this initiative will target the networks behind these operations and help restore confidence in our town centres.

Locally, councils have already been investing in improvements, from cleaner streets to better shopfronts. This national effort will complement that work, ensuring that regeneration is not undermined by criminal enterprise.

Celebrating local leadership
It was a pleasure to welcome Councillor Harry Atkinson to Parliament as his term as Mayor of Erewash draws to a close. His time in office has been marked by dedication, innovation and a genuine commitment to the community.

From raising funds for local charities to representing Erewash both at home and abroad, his achievements highlight the importance of strong local leadership. Showing him around Parliament and watching him take in the atmosphere of Westminster Hall was a proud moment.

Public service at any level requires hard work and resilience, and it is always important to recognise those who give their time and energy to it.

Backing British industry
One of the most consequential decisions this month was the vote to bring British Steel back into public ownership. After decades of decline and uncertain ownership, this move represents a decisive shift in how we support key industries.

By taking control of the Scunthorpe site, we are safeguarding jobs, protecting strategic capacity and ensuring that decisions are made in the national interest. The history of British Steel, including its connection to sites like Stanton Ironworks in Ilkeston, is a reminder of the central role industry once played in our communities.

This is about more than nostalgia. It is about building a modern industrial strategy that creates secure jobs and strengthens our economic resilience.

Bringing the community together
Not all of the month’s activities were focused on policy. Events like the Football and Fun Day at Ilkeston Town FC show the importance of community spirit. Families came together, children enjoyed sport and local organisations showcased their work.

These events strengthen the bonds that hold our communities together. They offer opportunities for connection, enjoyment and mutual support. It was a pleasure to attend and to see so many people making the most of the half term break.

Investing in our environment
Finally, I was delighted to support the launch of a new national forest project, with the Midlands in contention as its location. This initiative represents a major investment in our natural environment, with millions of trees set to be planted.

The benefits are wide ranging. New habitats for wildlife, improved air quality and opportunities for people to connect with nature are all part of the vision. For areas like ours, it also presents a chance to enhance our local landscapes and create spaces that future generations can enjoy.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s the things we’ve won on this month:

• Secured enforcement action from Derbyshire County Council to address a dangerous overgrown hedge in Draycott;

• Got play equipment cleaned in West Park ahead of summer;

• Arranged repairs to streetlights in a Long Eaton park with Erewash Borough Council;

• Helped resolve a clerical error in a resident’s citizenship status;

• Secured a delayed medical driving licence from the DVLA for a resident;

• Worked with EMH to install a fence after repeated dumping of drug paraphernalia;

• Secured a banding increase for a family in severely overcrowded housing;

• Scheduled replacement of a missing swing in West Park with EBC;

• Got a missing street sign on Marshall Way replaced;

• Cleared a large build-up of debris on Bennerley Avenue in Ilkeston;

• Secured an ESA back payment for a resident;

• Supported a resident facing a last-minute Section 21 eviction and helped prove the notice was illegal;

• Secured a £9,500 tax refund and £100 compensation for a resident;

• Retrieved a delayed driving licence from the DVLA;

• Ensured easier access to the defibrillator at the former Red Lion pub in Sandiacre;

• Got an overflowing bin emptied on the Nutbrook Trail;

• Helped remove an unaffordable £800 bill for a recently bereaved resident;

• Secured a response from the DWP regarding an ESA decision;

• Helped an elderly resident apply for a single person discount after years of missing out; and

• Supported an Ilkeston school in getting approval for its SEN unit.

Looking ahead
As we move into the summer months, my focus remains clear. I will continue working to ensure that national policies deliver tangible benefits here in Erewash, while staying rooted in the everyday experiences of the people I represent.

There is much still to do. From improving accessibility and strengthening our schools, to revitalising our town centres and supporting local businesses, the challenges are ongoing. But so too is the determination I see in our community every day.

I am grateful for the conversations, the challenges and the support I have received over the past month. Together, we are shaping the future of our towns, and I look forward to continuing that work in the weeks and months ahead.

Adam Thompson

On behalf of the people of Erewash, I give thanks to His Majesty the King for his Gracious Speech to the entire nation yesterday. This King’s Speech recognises the simple fact that Britain cannot afford to leave its future at the mercy of global markets, hostile states or instability abroad.

For too long, Governments assumed that the hand of the free market would always act in Britain’s interests. For too long, we outsourced vital industries without considering the long-term consequences and underrated the ability of our businesses to export physical goods to the world. We have been globally pigeonholed strictly as a post-industrial service economy. When dictators spark conflict abroad, British families feel the impact through rising bills and a falling standard of living. Working people in Erewash know that all too well. Britain has been left exposed because we failed to build our own energy resilience.

Ilkeston in Erewash is proud of its iron manufacturing heritage, yet we have watched industries like iron and steel decline as production has moved overseas in search of cheaper labour and lower standards. Steel is not just another commodity; its manufacture is strategic infrastructure, in and of itself—infrastructure that underpins our national defence capabilities. That is why it is unacceptable that British Steel has been let down by overseas owners who do not act in Britain’s best interests. We cannot outsource our national security any longer.

Harriet Cross

I completely agree that we must protect British industries such as steel and oil and gas refining—they are all vital. The carbon tax is a reason why these industries are declining and moving overseas. From what the hon. Member is saying, it feels like he agrees that we should get rid of the carbon tax. Is that correct?

Adam Thompson

I am not sure the hon. Member and I are necessarily on the same page. I was focusing purely on the renationalisation of the steel industry, which is an important part of the King’s Speech. Indeed, in this King’s Speech, the Government have recognised that markets alone cannot protect the national interest. Sometimes the state must step in to safeguard jobs and to keep Britain safe. Nationalising British Steel means protecting almost 100,000 jobs from unfair foreign competition. I am proud that this Government are going to bring British Steel fully back into public ownership.

I have spoken to many businesses and business owners in Erewash, and they report that they have struggled since we left the European single market. They have faced mountains of paperwork and massive delays at our borders. These hurdles do not just frustrate exporters; they directly impact their ability to turn a profit. I am glad that in the European partnership Bill we seek to solve that problem, by streamlining trade and making it quicker, cheaper and simpler to do business with Europe.

Matt Rodda

My hon. Friend is making an excellent speech. Would he agree that the European partnership Bill is particularly important to many small businesses in vital supply chains in the automotive sector and other key areas of our economy, which will benefit directly from that well thought-through measure?

Adam Thompson

I completely agree with my hon. Friend. Indeed, I am going to talk momentarily about one of the businesses in my constituency. When I discuss this topic, I particularly think of Cluny Lace in Ilkeston—not in the automotive sector, but a brilliant high-end lace manufacturer. It was workers from Ilkeston who produced Princess Kate’s wedding dress and Queen Anne’s tablecloth. Cluny Lace is an internationally renowned producer and exporter of high-quality British goods, supplying the European high-end garment manufacturing industry, in particular.

Wera Hobhouse

The hon. Member mentioned small businesses and delays at the border. Is it not true that the problem of double tariffs for small businesses when importing from third countries and then into the European Union will only be solved by us rejoining the customs union?

Adam Thompson

The hon. Member raises a point that I was about to touch on. When I met Charles Mason, the managing director of Cluny Lace, he told me at length about how post-Brexit export and import difficulties have caused him immeasurable pain, because the lace that we make in Ilkeston can only be dyed in France, where they have professionals with the appropriate expertise. Moving the lace to France for that part of the process, then back to England for further processing before sale, and then often back into Europe, has become all but impossible for his company. What was once a frictionless part of Cluny’s manufacturing process and sales chain, is now a crippling quagmire of tariffs and business model-breaking roadblocks.

For businesses across Erewash, whether they are producers, suppliers or distributors, a closer trading relationship with Europe means less time navigating bureaucracy and more time growing their businesses. Businesses in Erewash have also suffered from increased energy costs. If we want lower bills for working people, we must break our dependence on volatile global gas prices. British families will not see meaningful long-term reductions in energy costs until we produce more clean, affordable energy, here at home.

In Erewash, such a transition is not theoretical; it is obviously visible on our local skyline. Sawley, in my constituency, on the banks of the River Trent, lies adjacent to the former Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in the constituency of my hon. Friend the Member for Rushcliffe (James Naish). Ratcliffe was the UK’s last coal-fired power station; it closed its doors for the final time in September 2024.

As we move forward, my task as the MP for Erewash is not simply to help the country move on from coal, but to ensure that Erewash is at the heart of what comes next, and that my constituents benefit from the new investment, the new jobs, and the cleaner, more secure energy future that this Government are delivering through this King’s Speech. That is why I am excited about the Government’s energy independence Bill, which will shield our economy from the fossil-fuel price shocks that have caused half of the UK’s recessions since the 1970s.

This Government are bringing industry back to Britain, with well-paid engineers working in clean energy, powering steel production in the east midlands and across the country. On the ground, that means that families in my constituency—and the constituencies of hon. Members across the House—will no longer wonder how events thousands of miles away affect their bills or their ability to book a holiday.

Families in Erewash voted for change in 2024. They are tired of limited opportunities and of feeling vulnerable every time the world becomes more unstable. They want more control over their lives. With this King’s Speech, we are bringing industry home, investing in British jobs, and putting control of our future back into the hands of working people.

Over the past month, I’ve had the privilege of continuing to serve our community both locally in Erewash and nationally in Parliament. April has been a particularly busy and varied month, spanning everything from community visits and casework to national policy developments and my first full weeks as a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Home Office. What follows is a summary of that work, bringing together the conversations, challenges and progress that have defined the past few weeks.

Supporting young people and community groups
I began the month by spending time with the 21st Ilkeston Explorers, part of the wider scouting movement that plays such an important role in shaping young people’s confidence, leadership and sense of community. Speaking with them about politics, local, national and international, was a reminder of just how engaged and thoughtful young people are about the world around them. It’s vital that we continue to create spaces where those conversations can happen and where young people feel empowered to have their voices heard.

That same theme carried through other moments this month, including my involvement with Erewash Sound. Hosting the breakfast show ahead of the Easter weekend was great fun, but more importantly it highlighted the brilliant opportunities available locally for young people to develop skills in media, broadcasting and teamwork. Initiatives like their “We Are Young” programme are exactly the kind of platforms we should be championing.

Cost of living and making work pay
April also marked the start of the new financial year, bringing with it a number of changes designed to ease pressure on working families. From increases in the minimum and living wage, to frozen prescription charges and action on water companies, these measures are about fairness and affordability in challenging times.

Alongside this work, the implementation of the Employment Rights Act represents a significant step forward in strengthening protections at work. Higher pay for millions, day-one rights for parental leave, expanded sick pay and stronger enforcement through the new Fair Work Agency all point to a labour market that works better for employees as well as employers. These changes matter, not just in headline terms, but in the day-to-day reality of people’s lives.

Standing up for local residents
A core part of my role continues to be representing constituents when things go wrong. This month, I raised concerns directly with a private parking operator following repeated complaints about practices at a local retail park. Whether it’s unclear rules or inadequate appeals processes, these issues can cause real frustration and financial stress. Holding companies to account and pushing for fair treatment remains a key priority.

Similarly, my regular advice surgeries continue to be an essential way of staying connected to the issues people are facing. From housing and healthcare to more complex casework, these one-to-one conversations are invaluable. They ground everything I do in the lived experiences of local people.

Local democracy and campaigning
Early April also saw a parish council by-election in Draycott. It was a pleasure to be out speaking with residents and supporting an exceedingly strong local candidate in Aaron Tamber-Wolf. While the result didn’t go our way, the campaign was an important opportunity to listen, on issues like antisocial behaviour, opportunities for young people and environmental concerns.

Following the election, I returned to the village to meet with parish councillors and community groups, discussing future plans and priorities. These kinds of conversations are crucial in ensuring that local decision-making reflects the needs and ambitions of residents.

Community, charity and tackling homelessness
One of the most powerful moments of the month was attending the Canaan Trust’s annual Big Sleep Out in Long Eaton. Spending time with volunteers, many of whom had personal experience of homelessness, was deeply moving. Their stories were a stark reminder that homelessness is not an abstract issue; it affects real people in our community.

The work of organisations like the Canaan Trust is invaluable and supporting them, whether through raising awareness or encouraging donations, is something I will continue to prioritise.

Investment in services and infrastructure
There has been significant progress this month in securing investment for local services. Funding for library improvements across Derbyshire is a welcome step in reversing years of underinvestment, while additional support for arts and cultural institutions across the region will help sustain and grow these vital sectors.

In healthcare, upgrades to diagnostic centres in Derby and Nottingham will improve access to vital tests and treatments. These developments build on wider investment in local NHS services, including improvements to health centres and the reopening of urgent care facilities.

Environmental enforcement has also taken a step forward, with record fines issued to water companies for pollution breaches. Ensuring that those responsible for environmental damage are held accountable and that funds are directed towards repair and restoration, is essential.

Backing our town centres and local economy
This month, I met with a government minister to discuss how we can better support town centres through innovative partnerships between public, private and community sectors. There is often a narrative of decline around high streets, but I believe there is real potential, if we adapt to changing economic realities and invest in the right way.

Locally, it was great to see progress in Long Eaton, including the restoration of historic buildings and new businesses preparing to move in. These developments are a testament to the resilience and creativity of our local economy.

Parliamentary responsibilities and the Home Office
April has also been significant for me personally, as I began my role as a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Home Office. It’s been a steep learning curve, involving detailed policy work, supporting ministers during debates and helping to coordinate parliamentary business.

While much of this work happens behind the scenes, it plays an important role in ensuring that government operates effectively. Balancing these responsibilities with my ongoing work as a constituency MP has made for a demanding but rewarding few weeks.

Housing and planning reform
Housing remains one of the most pressing issues facing our community. With thousands on waiting lists locally, it’s clear that the current system is not delivering. Changes to Right to Buy announced this month are aimed at addressing that imbalance, ensuring that more social homes remain available while still supporting long-term tenants who wish to buy.

These reforms sit alongside broader efforts to increase housebuilding and strengthen renters’ rights. Tackling the housing crisis requires sustained, systemic change and this is an important part of that process.

Transport and connectivity
Improving local transport links is another ongoing priority. This month, I continued discussions with the Transport Secretary about the possibility of introducing passenger services between Ilkeston and Derby. While there are challenges, the interest shown by government is encouraging.

Better connectivity would bring real benefits, supporting economic growth, reducing congestion and making it easier for people to access work and services. I will continue to push for progress on this.

Celebrating identity and community
St George’s Day provided an opportunity to reflect on identity, history and values. For me, it’s about recognising the stories and traditions that shape our communities, while also looking forward, embracing values like fairness, courage and solidarity.

That sense of community pride was also evident in everyday moments this month, whether out on the doorstep, meeting residents on the high street, or simply enjoying the spring weather across Erewash.

Opportunities for young people
Finally, I was particularly pleased to see Derbyshire included in the first phase of the Youth Jobs Guarantee. Youth unemployment remains a significant challenge and early intervention is key to preventing long-term disadvantage.

Providing paid work placements and opportunities for skills development will help young people build confidence and experience, opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s the things we’ve won on this month:

• Secured removal of mud and debris on Millfield Road in Ilkeston;

• Registered six school defibrillators on the British Heart Foundation AED network;

• Got Derbyshire County Council to schedule works at Firfield Avenue roundabout;

• Helped a Draycott resident get a new fire door installed;

• Supported a resident in securing their driving licence after delays;

• Secured pothole repairs in Shipley View;

• Arranged additional parking enforcement at a Sawley school;

• Reported and cleared several fallen trees, including one in the canal;

• Recovered over £20,000 for residents from public bodies and other errors;

• Secured action on more than 50 roads and highway issues;

• Supported over 30 SEND families with EHCPs, school places and transport;

• Helped 56 residents facing homelessness or unsafe housing;

• Pushed for stronger enforcement around Sawley Junior School parking zones;

• Reported and resolved storm damage, including fallen trees and property impact;

• Connected Sawley Parish Council with anti-graffiti kits; and

• Resolved a long-running boiler issue and secured £200 compensation for a tenant.

Looking ahead
As we move into May, there is still much to do. From continuing to push for investment in local services, to advancing national policies that support working people, the work does not stop. I will also be building on my new responsibilities in the Home Office, ensuring that I can be as effective as possible both in Westminster and here in Erewash.

Above all, my focus remains on delivering for our community, listening, acting and working every day to make a positive difference.

March was a big month for me, with lots going on and plenty to report, ending with some really exciting personal news! Here’s what I’ve been up to this month.

Celebrating reading and opportunity

March began on a thoughtful and slightly lighter note with World Book Day. Like many people, I have seen first-hand the mix of joy and stress it can bring for families, but at its heart it is about something genuinely important: encouraging a love of reading. Books open doors, expand horizons and give young people the tools they need to succeed. That is why I am proud that we are supporting the National Year of Reading and investing in school libraries, ensuring every primary school has access to good books.

For me personally, reading has always been a valuable escape from the pressures of political life. Whether it is fiction or non-fiction, it provides space to think, reflect and reset. Encouraging that habit in the next generation is one of the simplest and most powerful things we can do.

Listening to residents on the doorstep

A significant part of March was spent out in the community, particularly on the doorsteps in places like Draycott. These conversations are always wide-ranging, from potholes and council tax to international affairs and the future of our local economy. They are also invaluable. They provide a direct line to what people are thinking and feeling, far beyond what any report or briefing can offer.

It was encouraging to be able to share plans from Labour-led Erewash Borough Council to freeze council tax, parking charges and brown bin fees while continuing to invest in our towns. At the same time, frustrations about the condition of local roads came up time and again. These are not abstract policy debates, they are everyday concerns that affect people’s quality of life.

Strengthening our town centres

The future of our high streets remains a key priority. This month I worked closely with the Long Eaton Business Partnership to promote their new survey on the town centre. The aim is simple but important: to gather the views of the people who actually use these spaces and shape a long-term vision based on that input.

Town centres are changing. Retail is evolving, and we need to think creatively about how to make these spaces vibrant, welcoming and economically sustainable. That means listening to residents, supporting independent businesses and ensuring that investment reflects local needs.

Taking Erewash’s voice to the Treasury

One of the most significant moments this month was a meeting with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray. Opportunities like this are rare, and I made sure to use every minute to raise the issues that matter most to Erewash.

We discussed Junction 25A, SEND funding, support for New Stanton Park, potholes and the future of our town centres. These are not small matters, they are the building blocks of local growth and quality of life. Meetings like this often go unseen, but they are a crucial part of ensuring that our area is heard at the highest levels of government.

Education and young people

As a former teacher, I always value time spent in schools. This month I visited both Dallimore Primary School and St John Houghton Catholic Voluntary Academy in Kirk Hallam. Speaking with Year six pupils about the role of an MP and discussing serious issues like modern slavery with older students was both engaging and thought-provoking.

Young people are deeply aware of the world around them, and they ask direct, challenging questions. It is a reminder that the decisions we make today will shape their future. Ensuring they have access to high quality education and opportunities must remain a central priority.

That commitment was reinforced by the announcement of an additional one point nine million pounds in SEND funding for Derbyshire. This forms part of a wider national investment to support inclusive education, expand specialist provision and ensure that more children can thrive in mainstream settings where appropriate. Every child deserves the chance to succeed, and this funding is a step in the right direction.

Supporting residents one to one

Alongside broader policy work, much of my role involves direct support for individuals. My constituency surgery in Kirk Hallam provided an opportunity to sit down with residents and discuss issues ranging from housing to immigration policy. These meetings are often deeply personal, and while the details remain confidential, they are a vital part of representing the community.

It is through this casework that I see most clearly how national policies affect people’s daily lives. Whether it is resolving a bureaucratic delay or helping someone navigate a complex system, these interventions can make a real difference.

Community action and the environment

One of the more unusual but memorable experiences this month was joining a volunteer toad patrol between Draycott and Church Wilne. Volunteers from the Long Eaton Natural History Society are working to protect migrating toads as they make their way to breeding ponds, helping to prevent further population decline.

It was a simple but powerful example of community action. Local people coming together to protect wildlife and improve their environment. These efforts often go unnoticed, but they play an important role in preserving the natural spaces around us.

Transport, infrastructure and growth

Transport remains one of the biggest challenges and opportunities for our area. I spoke in a Westminster Hall debate on investment in the East Midlands, highlighting both the promise of developments like New Stanton Park and the pressures they place on existing infrastructure.

There is real potential for growth, but it must be matched with proper investment in roads and rail. Reconnecting Stanton to the railway network and progressing plans for Junction twenty five A are essential steps. Encouragingly, two billion pounds has been committed to transport improvements in the region, and I will be working closely with regional leaders to ensure Erewash benefits.

Accessibility is also a key concern. In Parliament, I raised the challenges faced by people with mobility issues at Long Eaton station. Reliable lifts, accessible platforms and modern facilities are not optional extras, they are fundamental to a fair transport system.

Fairness in higher education

I also spoke in a parliamentary debate on the student loans system, an issue I feel strongly about. Having experienced the system as both a student and a member of university staff, I know its strengths and its flaws.

At present, the system places a heavy burden on many graduates while failing to provide sustainable funding for universities. It raises important questions about fairness, particularly when those from less advantaged backgrounds often graduate with the highest levels of debt. Reforming this system is complex, but it is necessary if we are to create a fairer and more effective model for higher education.

Investing in health and wellbeing

There was very welcome news this month with the announcement that Long Eaton will be home to one of the first new neighbourhood health centres in England. This represents a significant step forward in making healthcare more accessible and joined-up.

Bringing services together under one roof, extending opening hours and linking health with wider support services has the potential to transform how people access care. It is about prevention, convenience and reducing pressure on hospitals. I will be following this closely as it develops.

Backing local initiatives

It was also a pleasure to support community fundraising efforts, including a visit to a Comic Relief bake sale at Nottingham Building Society. These events may seem small, but they reflect something much bigger: the generosity and community spirit that runs through Erewash.

Similarly, continued engagement on the doorstep and in local campaigns, including the upcoming parish council by-election in Draycott, highlights the importance of grassroots involvement in our democracy.

Supporting families and early years

Towards the end of the month, we secured fantastic news for families in Ilkeston with the announcement of a new Best Start Family Hub in Cotmanhay. This forms part of a major national investment aimed at supporting children and families from pregnancy through the early years.

These hubs will provide a wide range of services, from health support to parenting advice and early intervention for children with additional needs. They build on the legacy of Sure Start and represent a renewed commitment to giving every child the best possible start in life.

A new role in the Home Office

The month concluded with a significant personal development, my appointment as a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Home Office. This is an important responsibility, supporting ministers in one of the most critical areas of government.

While the role comes with certain limitations, including stepping back from some public speaking on Home Office matters, it also provides a valuable opportunity to raise issues affecting Erewash directly within government. It is a chance to ensure that our community’s voice is heard where decisions are made.

Wins this month

My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s an array of this month’s wins:

• Secured a resident’s driving licence from the DVLA after delays prevented them selling their car.

• Worked with Erewash Borough Council to bring an empty property back into use.

• Supported a resident at an EHCP tribunal, securing specialist school provision.

• Arranged removal of offensive graffiti from a Long Eaton business park.

• Helped a local business secure a contract with Transport for London.

• Got an interactive speed sign installed on Moorbridge Lane in Stapleford.

• Reported and resolved a cluster of potholes in Ilkeston.

• Asked Derbyshire County Council to investigate a dangerous obstruction on a public right of way.

• Helped a resident secure a gas connection and avoid fines.

• Reported offensive graffiti in Kirk Hallam and ensured it was cleared.

• Secured a repair to a resident’s broken front door

• Supported a resident in finding a new home after landlord neglect.

• Assisted a resident facing homelessness due to a section twenty one notice.

• Secured one hundred and fifty pounds in compensation for incomplete works.

• Urgently restored a resident’s driving licence after a seven month DVLA delay.

• Worked with the council to increase street sweeping around Quarry Hill.

• Helped clear rubbish and debris from a public right of way in Hallam Fields.

• Got Derbyshire County Council to schedule repairs on Sawley Lane.

• Successfully removed three hundred pounds of incorrect NHS prescription penalties.

• Secured repairs for several potholes on Poplar Road in Breaston.

Looking ahead

March has been a month of momentum, from local conversations on the doorstep to national discussions in Westminster. It has reinforced the importance of staying connected to the community while pushing for change at the highest levels.

Looking ahead, my focus remains clear: securing investment in infrastructure, supporting families and young people, strengthening our town centres and ensuring that growth benefits everyone. There is still much to do, but with continued engagement and determination, I am confident we can keep moving Erewash forward.

Adam Thompson

I thank the Chair of the Transport Committee, my hon. Friend the Member for Brentford and Isleworth (Ruth Cadbury), for her efforts in securing this debate, and indeed the Backbench Business Committee for granting it.

At Long Eaton train station in my constituency, the two platforms are well above ground level. They are both accessed by narrow ramps and on both sides of the train line there is a steep upward incline. The ramps are guarded at each end by rails that prevent people from cycling up and down them, but the sharpness of that gradient means that if a traveller has any kind of mobility issues, their journey up to the platform might be rather difficult. The barriers make it effectively impossible for anybody who requires a wheelchair to make it up, and some old tarmac on the ramp often sees people with no mobility issues at all hit the deck every time there is a freeze. From personal experience on my parliamentary commute, I can confirm: not fun.

Thankfully, two lifts were installed at Long Eaton train station in 2012, as part of Network Rail’s Access for All programme, which was launched by the last Labour Government in 2006 and continues to this day. The installation was great progress towards improving disabled access to the platforms, but the operation of the lifts leaves quite a lot to be desired. Travellers can use the lifts only when somebody is on duty at the ticket office, which is during normal hours of nine-to-five. Thankfully, despite the previous Conservative Government’s best efforts in 2023, the ticket office remains open, but travellers are still severely limited. The office is not staffed all the time, meaning that of an evening or weekend, the lifts cannot be used and disabled members of my community cannot access the platforms.

I pay tribute to my local councillor, Dave Doyle—a very good friend of mine—and to Sawley parish council chair, Alan Chewings. Dave and Alan have done great work for many years in raising the alarm on accessibility failures at Long Eaton train station. Indeed, when Dave, Alan and I campaigned against the proposed ticket office closure a few years ago, disabled people’s access was very much what we focused on. Great thanks are therefore due to Dave and Alan for their efforts over the years.

I have previously met Midlands Connect and Network Rail and spoken about persistent issues at Long Eaton station. Struggles with accessibility result from its relative lack of modernisation, but the problems do not stop there. The platform is also unusually short—there is a special announcement every time I get on my train back home. It means that long inter-city trains cannot open all their doors because they cannot be accessed from the whole platform. It leads to missed connections and confusion for travellers across the board.

Additionally, the railway bridge right next to the station across Tamworth Road is 200 years old. It is so low and narrow that it chokes all traffic going under what is an important thoroughfare between Long Eaton and the M1. The road under the bridge also regularly floods, which means that people have to take a 15-minute diversion. The infrastructure we need is just not there.

In summary, we need proper investment to ensure that the station is accessible every day at all times. Long Eaton is a commuter town, ultimately. It is at the heart of the east midlands, with regular trains running to Nottingham, Derby and Leicester, and it is less than two hours door to door to the House of Commons—which is convenient. But it needs to be modernised, and any project that does that needs to recognise disabled people’s rights to accessibility, so that everyone can use the station to get where they need to go.

Adam Thompson

I thank my hon. Friend the Member for Derby North (Catherine Atkinson) for securing this debate. She knows my constituency well, and will be familiar with many of the issues that I will raise.

Erewash is at the geographic and, dare I say, emotional heart of the east midlands— the halfway point between Derby and Nottingham. Long Eaton, which I represent, was scarcely on the map before the railways, and Ilkeston, like the constituency of my hon. Friend the Member for Bournemouth East (Tom Hayes), used to have its own tram. Those places are defined by industry and are inherently linked to public transportation, but by the middle of the 20th century, that legacy had been whittled away as all focus moved towards the car.

For 50 years, Ilkeston did not have a train station at all, but after years of cross-party campaigning, its new station opened in 2017. However, lots of people in Ilkeston tell me that the station has been a missed opportunity. Services are once per hour, meaning that it is not as attractive to commuters as it could be. Ilkeston is in Derbyshire, but passengers cannot even get a train to Derby from the station.

I am pleased, though, to hear discussion about the Maid Marian line again. That line would restore the link from Nottinghamshire to the Erewash valley line, perhaps enabling those new services connecting Mansfield and Derby to call at Ilkeston. At present, although the Erewash valley line bears my constituency’s name, it does not carry any local passenger services. If it were brought into more frequent use, maybe we could one day reopen the Stapleford and Sandiacre station. If we are dreaming, perhaps one day we could even bring back Draycott and Breaston station, too.

In many ways, Long Eaton was fortunate to keep its train station after the 1960s. The station has frequent services to many destinations, but there are still things that it notably lacks. The ramps up to the platform are very steep, and the lifts work only when the station is staffed, which presents real difficulties for my disabled constituents. The platform is too short, which can cause havoc for longer trains as only some doors can open.

Finally, let me address buses. The 21 bus used to link Ilkeston, Cotmanhay and Kirk Hallam directly with the Queen’s medical centre in Nottingham, one of our local major hospitals. Before the covid pandemic, the service was slashed to just once per hour, and afterwards it was slashed altogether. Now there are no direct buses from Ilkeston to the QMC, and for anyone trying to reach the hospital from Kirk Hallam by bus, it is a two-hour trip with at least two changes. It means getting a bus all the way into Derby before taking another bus, in the opposite direction, to Nottingham. It is madness.

Samantha Niblett

I am very familiar with my hon. Friend’s constituency, and I know that he was campaigning for good transport links way before he became an MP. On access to bus services, smaller villages such as Egginton in my South Derbyshire constituency are not served by a bus service at all. Does he agree that that truly ensures regional inequality across our country?

Adam Thompson

I agree completely with my hon. Friend. Indeed, for years the east midlands has languished, as my hon. Friend the Member for Derby North said in her opening remarks, on the bottom few rungs of the table for regional transport funding. I am glad that times are changing, however. The Treasury’s £2 billion commitment to transport in the east midlands earlier this year was bigger than I and colleagues in the region could ever have dreamed. I am so excited to see what transformation that investment will bring, and I will fight every day to ensure that Erewash sees the benefits of it.

If we are to have long-term change, the east midlands cannot rely on one-off awards, however. We need consistent investment, comprehensive planning reform, overhauled and empowered local government, and, in particular, changes to the Treasury rules to end the flat refusal to spend outside London and the greater south-east. Those are all positive prospects brought forward by this Government, and I look forward to seeing them become law.

Adam Thompson

I draw the House’s attention to my entry in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests, and in particular to my role as the chair of the all-party parliamentary university group and to my membership of the University and College Union.

I must note my shock and awe at the Conservatives’ decision to hold an Opposition day debate on the current state of student loans. It is a system that they created in government, that they subsequently broke, and that has left a generation of students and graduates utterly and comprehensively beaten. I remember well when they—with the support of the Liberal Democrats—tripled student fees in 2012. At the time, I was a student and the president of a sports club at my university. We saw a huge downturn in involvement with extracurricular activities that year, because of the additional pressure put on new students by the fee increase. Indeed, I remember very well that a friend who worked in the events team at our student union referred to October 2012 as “the death of fun”.

I accept that the sector needed intervention, and I believe that the architect of the policy, now the Lord Willetts, took difficult decisions that he felt were needed to make the university sector sustainable. I do not believe, however, that he had factored into his plan the Tories’ subsequent freeze in fee increases and repayment thresholds, or their later abolition of maintenance grants. Although the initial increase was a blow to students, the following decade of failed Tory policy has left our university sector in tatters. It has left our institutions facing years of staff dissatisfaction and industrial action, and it has created a whole generation saddled with unbelievable student debt. The Tories created, and then compounded, a system that looks like a graduate tax, smells like a graduate tax, and yet provides the uniquely deep personal pressure that sits astride hundreds of thousands of pounds of apparent debt, crushing millions of students who have been to university in the past 14 years. The Tories enacted almost irreparable damage on the university sector, and did immeasurable harm to a whole generation’s experience of university. The death of fun indeed!

I am amazed, then, at the decision to table this Opposition day motion. In choosing to tinker around the edges of the policy cesspit that they created over many years, the Tories exhibit the most unbelievable brass neck. There is not a hint of an apology for the damage that they did, nor a modicum of understanding of the work that this Government are doing to dig us out of the mess they left us in. The Government are taking the tough but fair decisions necessary to protect taxpayers and students now and for the future.

Under the system, lower-earning graduates will always be protected, with any outstanding loans and interest continuing to be written off after 30 years. I believe it is right that those who can repay their loans do so, and that graduates earning the highest salaries contribute more towards their student loan repayments, but the Government must also repair the damage that was left to us by the Tories. That is why I strongly support the Government’s plan to restore maintenance grants and increase maintenance loans in line with inflation, as I believe should always have been the case. These measures ultimately support low-income students to access, and participate and excel in, higher education. When I was teaching degree-level apprenticeships in electromechanical engineering, I saw what widening participation measures achieved in practice: it allowed access to education for people who did not otherwise have it. I saw the profound good that those measures achieved.

Universities UK still supports the income-contingent loan repayment system, which has facilitated a huge advance in access to university over the past two decades. It notes that more students from disadvantaged backgrounds have been able to enter university, and that the number of pupils who received free school meals and went on to university doubled from 2005-06 to 2023-24. Successive reviews of the higher education finance system have concluded that it is the fairest way of funding higher education. It was Labour policy, made when we were last in government, that achieved those significant improvements.

Although I acknowledge that the Government have a difficult time ahead in solving the Tory mess, I am deeply supportive of the Prime Minister’s huge new target for universities and apprenticeships: that by the age of 25, two thirds of young people should be studying for a degree or taking up a gold-standard apprenticeship. Labour is taking action to ensure that young people are either earning or learning, with 200,000 job and apprenticeship opportunities over the next three years. I also strongly support the £2.5 billion investment that forms the Government’s youth guarantee. We must use it to expand employment support, offer grants to employers who hire young people, and provide a jobs guarantee to create subsidised work placements for long-term unemployed 18-to-24 year olds.

Adam Thompson

Thank you Dr Huq, it is a pleasure to serve under your chairship. Can I also thank my honourable friend, the Member for Rushcliffe, for securing this debate on such an important issue, and members across the House for their contributions today.

For too long, the East Midlands has been left behind. Abandoned by a post-1980s neoliberal, globalisation-driven economic consensus, and forgotten by conservative, austerian Treasury logic that struggles to bring itself to invest even in London, let alone in medium-sized towns in the Midlands. I am glad, then, that that paradigm is starting to change.

At the former Stanton Ironworks in my constituency the first blast furnace fires were lit at the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, and they went out for the final time in 2007. Hundreds of iobs were lost, and Ilkeston became a post-industrial town.

Now though, New Stanton Park grows every day. Italian manufacturers, Fassa Bortolo, recently chose Ilkeston for their first factory in Britain. Jobs are returning, and investment is coming in - it's very welcome in our town.

But it's important to note that the new developments spark anxiety too. Derbyshire was recently rated as having the worst roads in England. The local road network was never designed to handle so much pressure, and failure at Junction 25 brings traffic to a standstill for miles around. The old ironworks was linked to the railway by an old rail spur, and that infrastructure still exists - but it's going take a lot more time and money to bring it back into use. If we can get the freight from New Stanton Park onto the railway, then that will be a big win for local people, for our roads and for the environment.

Alongside this work, I’ve been campaigning for a Junction 25A, designed to service Stanton. I’ve met with ministers, Highways England, I even sat down and found complete common ground with the leader of my local Conservative Council Group, Councillor Wayne Major. Ultimately, such a project would take at minimum several years, and at least tens of millions to make happen, but it’s needed to deliver for local people.

For that, we need the government. I’m very grateful for changes to the Treasury green book to make infrastructure upgrades outside London more acceptable. And I’m extremely excited about the £2 billion committed by the Chancellor for transport in the East Midlands, as well as about how our brilliant Mayor Claire is going to spend it.

What I reallv want to stress here today, though, is that in Erewash, we don't iust have a strong industrial history, but a growing industrial present. People want jobs, they want investment, they want economic growth. But that needs to come with proper, long-term, serious commitments on infrastructure.

When we have growth, it needs to work for local people, not just around them. They need to know that it benefits them, not just mega-rich CEOs. Part of that is making sure we get proper investment in infrastructure, to make people's lives better and more productive.

February has been a month rooted in community, opportunity and the steady, often unseen work that makes a difference both here in Erewash and down in Westminster. As always, I have been sharing updates day by day, but here’s a summary of the full month.

Standing up for pet owners and animal welfare
The month began with an issue close to home for me as the proud owner of my two cats, Morty and Winry. Pet owners across Erewash know the anxiety that can come with rising veterinary costs and unclear information. For too long, the legislation governing veterinary services has remained largely unchanged since the nineteen sixties. That is why I was pleased to support significant reforms this month to improve transparency in pricing, introduce proper licensing of veterinary practices, bring veterinary nurses into regulation and create a fairer complaints process. Alongside action on puppy smuggling, electric shock collars and trail hunting, these measures will help build a system that works better for animals and for the people who care for them. It is practical reform that will make a real difference to families locally and nationally.

Supporting our high streets
I spent much of the month out and about with local businesses. In Ilkeston, I visited Nationwide on Bath Street to discuss the future of high street banking. With so many branches closing across the country, it was reassuring to hear their commitment to keeping branches open until at least two thousand and thirty. Around twenty thousand people locally bank with them, nearly half of all households. That kind of presence matters for our town centres. We also spoke about crime and antisocial behaviour, and I outlined the additional officers coming into Derbyshire Police and the new respect orders in the Police and Crime Bill.

I also swapped the suit jacket for an apron at Costa in the Albion Centre and tried my hand at being a barista. Our high streets are changing, with retail moving increasingly online and leisure and hospitality playing a larger role. The Albion Centre has faced challenges, but businesses like Costa show there is still opportunity. In Long Eaton, I enjoyed a visit to Copper Cogs, one of many fantastic independent spots that give our towns their character. Supporting the Long Eaton Business Partnership and championing independent businesses is a key part of building resilient local economies.

Skills, apprenticeships and good jobs
National Apprenticeships Week ran like a thread through February. At Webs Training in Beeston, I met apprentices learning upholstery and manufacturing skills that are part of Long Eaton’s proud heritage. Their professionalism and commitment were inspiring. Protecting and investing in these skills is essential if we are to secure well paid jobs for the next generation.

That focus on good jobs was underlined when Erewash Borough Council’s planning committee approved a major development at New Stanton Park. The decision clears the way for over a hundred new roles, with Italian manufacturer Fassa Bortolo set to open a factory on the site of the former Stanton Ironworks. Bringing high quality manufacturing back to such a historic site is hugely symbolic. There are understandable concerns about traffic and infrastructure, and I will continue pressing for improvements including the long discussed rail spur and progress on Junction twenty five A. But this investment represents real opportunity for local people.

I also visited Asda in Long Eaton to learn about their degree level dispensing optician apprenticeships and retail management pathways, and JTL Training in Sandiacre, where apprentices train as electricians and plumbers. At JTL we held a roundtable discussion about the future of the sector, the challenges it faces and the opportunities ahead. Those conversations are invaluable when I am speaking to ministers in Westminster.

Scrutiny in Westminster
While much of my work happens in the constituency, February also involved detailed legislative work in Parliament. I completed my service on the Finance Bill Committee, where MPs from across parties scrutinise legislation line by line. It is not the most glamorous aspect of politics, but it is where the serious work happens. The Finance Bill enacts the measures announced in the Budget, and it is vital that it is carefully examined to ensure it delivers as intended.

Listening on the doorstep
Valentine’s Day was spent knocking doors in Cotmanhay and Shipley View, speaking with residents about road repairs, the town centre and ideas for Pride in Place funding. Doorstep conversations remain one of the most important parts of this job. They provide honest feedback and help shape the priorities I take forward.

I also held a constituency advice surgery in Sandiacre, meeting residents to discuss everything from complex casework to big ideas for the future of our area. Being accessible and responsive is central to how I approach this role.

Community, health and wellbeing
As a former teacher, I was delighted to visit Chaucer Junior School in Ilkeston to speak with pupils about belonging and inclusion. Seeing young people reflect thoughtfully on respect and community gives real hope for the future.

Community spirit was also on display at the Manor Foundation open day at Ilkeston Town Football Club and at the Wellbeing Erewash Roadshow at Arena Church. These events brought together local police, charities and health organisations to promote physical and mental wellbeing. I even took the opportunity to have my blood pressure checked.

Mental health has been a particular focus this month. I was honoured to be named a Movember Men’s Mental Health Champion in recognition of work to push for a stronger national strategy. Locally, I visited Together We Lift at The Unit in Ilkeston, supported by Derbyshire Mind. The initiative uses weightlifting as a way to bring people together and open up conversations about depression, anxiety and suicide. The courage of those involved and the sense of solidarity they have built is genuinely inspiring.

Tackling housing challenges
One of the tougher meetings this month took place in Long Eaton, where residents shared concerns about the growth of houses in multiple occupation on their streets. Emotions were understandably high. The introduction of an Article Four Direction in Long Eaton, Ilkeston and Sandiacre will give the council stronger planning powers, but the wider legal framework too often prioritises landlords over communities. I will continue to press for a fairer balance, ensuring that homes are safe and that neighbours have a real say in what happens where they live.

Heritage, service and opportunity
I received a warm welcome from Ilkeston Brass, a community band with roots stretching back to the nineteen twenties and the old Stanton works. Supporting efforts in Parliament to promote brass bands nationally is something I am proud to be involved in, drawing on my own experience in a marching band as a teenager.

I have also been campaigning for the creation of a National Cadets Week. As a former cadet, I know how transformative that experience can be. I raised the idea directly with the Leader of the House and followed up with ministers to ensure it is taken seriously. Our local cadet units do incredible work, often with limited resources, and they deserve recognition.

Fighting for better transport
Transport and connectivity are vital to our long term prosperity. Towards the end of the month I met with the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, alongside fellow Midlands MPs. I made the case for reopening the connection between the Erewash Valley Line and the Robin Hood Line, resolving the lingering issues affecting Long Eaton residents after the cancellation of the eastern leg of HS2 Ltd, and finally delivering electrification of the Midlands Main Line. Better rail links could unlock huge opportunities for Ilkeston, Long Eaton and our surrounding villages, and I will continue to push for progress.

I also spent time in Manchester supporting our Labour candidate in a by election. While my focus is always Erewash, it is valuable to stand alongside colleagues across the country and understand the challenges facing communities elsewhere.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s an array of this month’s wins:

• Secured full damp treatment, mould removal and replastering after a housing association failed to tackle serious mould.

• Supported Erewash Borough Council in investigating bin collection issues on a narrow road in Long Eaton.

• Helped a resident apply for the Warmer Homes Grant.

• Assisted families in accessing council and legal support after section twenty one eviction notices.

• Recovered four thousand pounds owed to a resident by HMRC after transfer delays.

• Arranged anti graffiti paint for a vandalism hotspot in Kirk Hallam.

• Wrote in support of a child’s EHCP application at tribunal.

• Worked with the council to replace a missing street sign in Ilkeston.

• Helped a resident retrieve their driving licence from the DVLA after delays.

• Secured transport for a homeless man to return to his home town for housing support.

• Coordinated with the council to adjust bin collections to prevent damage to a resident’s property.

• Assisted a small business owner to identify grants and loans, leading to talks with a prospective investor.

• Supported a local gymnastics club in securing three thousand five hundred pounds of council funding for new equipment.

• Arranged a new grit bin for a street with several elderly residents in Kirk Hallam.

• Secured a long awaited response from HMRC for an elderly resident after six months.

• Helped a resident recover their driving licence following delays in the DVLA medical department.

Looking ahead

From barista shifts to bill committees, from school visits to strategic transport meetings, February has been a reminder of the breadth of this role. At its heart, though, everything comes back to the same purpose: creating opportunity, strengthening community and ensuring that Erewash has a confident voice locally and nationally.

There is always more to do. In the months ahead I will continue pressing for better transport links, fairer housing rules, stronger support for mental health and more good quality jobs for local people. I am grateful to everyone who has welcomed me, challenged me and worked alongside me this month. Together, we can keep building a brighter future for Erewash.

Adam Thompson MP

Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. As a relatively young member of this House at 35, I had access to social media from a young age. I had my first Facebook account at 16, but I had a myspace account and a Bebo account at around 13, and I regularly logged onto MSN messenger after I got home from school. I remember, well, the toxicity that existed on those platforms, but even they were a world away from what children experience online today. The algorithms fuelling those platforms were far more rudimentary than they are now, the content less addictive and the platforms not designed to endlessly hold the attention of the users who frequented them. 

Children’s online safety is an issue that is raised often by my constituents. In Ilkeston, in Long Eaton and across Erewash, parents stop me to talk about the situations of their own children. They tell me about group chats that spiral out of control late at night, about harmful content appearing on phones in bedrooms, about the fear that the online world is shaping their child faster than they can keep up. Improving children’s relationship with mobile phones and social media is not just about cold, distant regulation – it’s a daily concern for the families I represent, and I am very glad the government has similarly prioritised these concerns.

The Online Safety Act is one of the best legislative measures to protect children online taken anywhere in the world, and recent events have shown that it can hold these giant multinational corporations to account. But as the government has been clear, the act lays a foundation and there is further work to do to build on it. Technology evolves rapidly, and Parliament must keep pace.

Last March, in response to the Private Member’s Bill put forward by my honourable friend, the Member for Whitehaven and Workington, the Government recognised that further action was needed. I am pleased that the government is now delivering on that commitment with the three-month consultation on additional protections. I hope this consultation will provide the opportunity for an open and honest conversation, with parents, carers, teachers and children at its heart. I particularly hope that the government is considering the means by which children can be specifically involved and I would welcome the minister’s comments on efforts to do so.

I know that, as part of this work, the government will be examining options including setting a formal minimum age for social media and raising the digital age of consent, so companies cannot make money from children’s data without parents’ permission. I also understand that the government will be considering whether restrictions should extend to AI chatbots and will examine access to features that are children should not have access to, like stranger pairing or live streaming. I commend the government on this work and look forward to the outcomes of the consultation.

I also welcome the planned amendments to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which should allow swift implementation of the consultation’s outcomes through secondary legislation. That means we can act within months, not years, to potentially set age limits, and prevent children from sharing or receiving nude images. I would also like to see the government strengthen protections for bereaved families, ensuring coroners are automatically alerted where online activity may have played a role in a child’s death.

These changes must be about putting children’s safety first. Just as we would never allow unsafe products to be sold on our high streets, we cannot allow unsafe conditions for children on the internet. The same values that guide our commitment to reducing child poverty, strengthening public services and making our streets safe must also apply online.

Every child in Erewash, and across our country, deserves a childhood free from exploitation and fear. If we listen, act decisively and put children before profits for big tech companies, we can create a digital world that reflects the best of our society, not the worst. I urge colleagues on all sides of the House to support that mission.

January is often described as the longest month of the year. The Christmas decorations come down, the nights are still dark by late afternoon, and the weather rarely does us any favours. But it is also a month of fresh starts, renewed focus and, in politics, getting straight back to work.

I began the year quietly at home, enjoying a New Year’s Day roast and a film with family, reflecting on the year ahead. Public service is a privilege, but it is sustained by the support of those around us. Taking a moment to reset matters. Then, as ever, it was back to it.

Investing in our towns
One of the most significant announcements this month was confirmation of £20 million secured for Cotmanhay. This funding represents real, tangible investment in an area that has too often been overlooked. It will support regeneration, improve public spaces and help restore pride in place. For me, this is what politics should be about: ensuring that communities like ours in Erewash get their fair share of national investment.

That theme continued throughout January. In Long Eaton, I joined partners to celebrate the official opening of the Old Stables business centre, a flagship project of the Town Deal. The transformation of a 250-year-old Grade II listed building from storage space into modern office accommodation is a brilliant example of how we can blend heritage with economic renewal. When people work in the town centre, they spend in the town centre. That footfall supports cafés, pubs and shops, creating a virtuous circle of local growth.

Equally encouraging was meeting the Long Eaton Business Partnership alongside Erewash Borough Council’s Deputy Leader to discuss a shared vision for the town’s future. Regeneration only works when it is collaborative. Businesses, councils, health partners and residents all have a stake in shaping what comes next. Over the coming months we will be building that framework together.

Standing up for local priorities
January also brought scrutiny and accountability. Derbyshire was ranked among the worst counties in the country for repairing potholes under the new traffic light system introduced by the Department for Transport. Residents rightly expect better. When council tax rises by the maximum amount but basic services fall short, people lose trust. Holding decision-makers to account is as important as celebrating successes.

By contrast, Erewash Borough Council launched its budget consultation with a council tax freeze, expanded free parking, investment in parks and play areas, funding for music lessons and discounted swimming for children. It is focused on two simple aims: easing the pressure on household finances and investing in the future. Affordability remains the issue that comes up most often in conversations on the doorstep, and freezing council tax while enhancing services is no small achievement.

Mid-month, I spent time walking around Ilkeston town centre, stopping people for quick chats about what matters to them. These conversations are invaluable. People spoke about rents, the condition of roads, activities for young people and the need to keep improving the town centre. It is easy in politics to become consumed by Westminster, but our compass must always be local voices.

Supporting working people
Nationally, the Employment Rights Act has now become law, extending vital protections to millions of workers. From April, parents in full-time work will gain stronger rights to parental leave from day one in their job, and families will have greater flexibility in how they share that leave. For too long, workplace rights have lagged behind the reality of modern family life. Supporting working parents is not only fair; it strengthens our economy by giving people the security they need to thrive.

I also visited the JobCentre in Long Eaton to learn more about the support available locally. Whatever reputation JobCentres may have, the staff I met were committed and creative in helping people find secure, well-paid work. Their partnership work with youth hubs in Ilkeston Library and Cotmanhay, and targeted support for carers seeking employment, is exactly the kind of tailored approach we need.

Housing reform featured strongly this month too. The publication of the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill marks a decisive step towards ending the outdated leasehold system. For residents in parts of Ilkeston, Sandiacre and Long Eaton, this could mean real savings and far greater control over their own homes. Abolishing forfeiture and capping ground rents are not abstract legal tweaks; they are changes that will protect people from losing their homes unfairly and keep more money in their pockets.

Backing our public services
Our public services have been under immense strain in recent years, so it was welcome news that NHS waiting lists fell again at the end of last year, alongside improvements in ambulance response times and staff retention. There is still a long road ahead to restore the NHS fully, but progress matters. It reflects the dedication of NHS staff and sustained investment to tackle the backlog.

Policing reform was another major national development this month. New standards will ensure faster answers to emergency calls and clearer response time expectations, alongside more visible neighbourhood policing. Everyday crimes such as shoplifting and antisocial behaviour erode confidence when left unchecked. Restoring trust means ensuring that people see consistent, reliable action.

Closer to home, I was pleased to see the Canal & River Trust act swiftly to remove abandoned boats that had been left to sink in the canal at Sandiacre. It may sound small compared to national legislation, but these practical interventions make a difference to how safe and pleasant our shared spaces feel.

Community and wellbeing
Politics is not only about policy; it is about people. One of the most meaningful experiences this month was spending a cold January morning alongside James, Ilkeston’s Big Issue vendor. Standing with him as he worked in freezing temperatures, selling just a handful of magazines, brought home how hard it is to build an income in those circumstances. The Big Issue model offers dignity and opportunity, but it relies on community support. If you see James on Bath Street, do stop and say hello. It was also lovely to hear that James sent his story to The Big Issue directly, who printed it!

Mental health was also front of mind around what is often dubbed “Blue Monday”. I joined Sole Mates, a local walking group, for a ten-kilometre ramble through muddy fields. The walk symbolised the life expectancy gap between men in the most and least deprived areas. Conversation, connection and fresh air may not solve every problem, but they are powerful antidotes to isolation.

Community groups continue to inspire. I spent time with Parklands Stroke Support Club in Petersham Hall, discussing local priorities and hearing first-hand how vital peer support can be. At West Park Leisure Centre’s open day, dozens of organisations came together under one roof, showcasing the strength and diversity of Long Eaton’s civic life.

I also visited Bennerley Fields School in Cotmanhay, a remarkable setting supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities. Meeting pupils and staff, and taking part in a lively question and answer session, was a reminder of why investment in education and inclusive provision is so essential.

Celebrating heritage and environment
Erewash is blessed with character. From serious matters to the delightfully quirky, protecting our local identity matters. When the much-loved “NatWest hole” in Ilkeston was unexpectedly blocked off, residents were quick to voice concern. I raised the issue and sought clarification on how we safeguard such small but cherished features of our town’s heritage.

Looking further ahead environmentally, proposals to reintroduce beavers into the Erewash Valley generated considerable interest. Beavers are not just charming; they are ecosystem engineers, improving biodiversity and helping with natural flood management. Careful study is required before any reintroduction, but it reflects a wider commitment to environmental restoration and long-term thinking.

On the doorstep
The month ended as many do: knocking on doors in Ilkeston, speaking directly with residents about their priorities. Conversations ranged from regeneration in Cotmanhay to rogue landlords, park renovations and council tax. Afterward, I called in at local businesses for lunch and a hot chocolate, before meeting the Friends of Ilkeston Town Centre to hear about their ongoing work.

These are the moments that keep politics grounded. Policy announcements and parliamentary debates matter, but so too do everyday conversations in Larklands or over a cup of tea in the town centre.

Wins this month
My team have been working as hard as ever to support local people – here’s an array of this month’s wins:

• Secured social housing for a disabled, homeless resident in Ilkeston.

• Ensured racist graffiti in Kirk Hallam was removed swiftly. This behaviour is appalling and will not be tolerated in Erewash.

• Supported a family in Kirk Hallam after they were served with a Section 21 eviction notice.

• Helped speed up a resident’s driving licence application following a long delay with the DVLA medical department.

• Secured essential electrical works for a school in Breaston.

• Assisted a family in obtaining a council house after their private landlord decided to sell the property.

• Resolved an administrative error so a resident could receive a long-overdue hearing assessment and hearing aid.

• Supported a constituent in raising concerns about antisocial work practices.

• Secured boiler repairs for an Ilkeston school after faults led to temporary closures. Maintenance is now under way.

• Arranged for a large pothole in Stanton to be repaired after it damaged a resident’s car.

• Helped a local school retain the lease on a building, preventing the potential closure of one of its courses.

• Secured an investigation into safety improvements at the Sandiacre crossroads following evidence it is a collision hotspot.

Looking ahead
As we move into February, the pace will not slow. The Cotmanhay investment must translate into visible change. Leasehold reform must progress through Parliament. NHS improvements and policing standards must continue to deliver results on the ground.

Locally, we will keep shaping Long Eaton’s regeneration plans, supporting community groups and ensuring that affordability remains front and centre in council decisions.

January may be long and often grey, but it has been full of purpose. From canals to council budgets, from national reform to muddy walks across Derbyshire fields, the common thread is simple: practical action rooted in local voices.

If the rest of 2026 follows the same pattern, it will be a year of steady progress for Erewash and for the country.