Political Opinion with Alison Bennett MP: Out and About Across Mid Sussex
With Parliament in recess for the summer, I have been making the most of the opportunity to spend even more time across Mid Sussex. Last week I was out and about meeting parish councillors, speaking with residents across the constituency and responding to the latest developments on social care.
My week began in Hurstpierpoint, where I met with parish councillors from Burgess Hill, Hurstpierpoint, Sayers Common, Hassocks, Fulking and Pyecombe. It was fantastic to bring so many knowledgeable local leaders together, to discuss the issues affecting their communities, our shared priorities, and where I can support them in Westminster and locally.
On Wednesday, I visited the Burgess Hill and District Pantry. It was fantastic to see their new store and meet some of the dedicated volunteers who give their time to help local people. The Pantry is such a brilliant community initiative, and it was great to see the support provided. I also held a pop-up surgery in Burgess Hill town centre, where I had some great conversations with residents about the issues that matter most to them. Then it was off to The King's Church, where Burgess Hill Town Council were holding their latest Family Fun Session for children with SEND and their families. It was a valuable opportunity to hear about from local families about their experiences and see the support and community these sessions provide.
On Thursday, I met with the new Chief Executive of South East Water, John Halsall. Before the meeting, I asked residents online to share the questions and concerns they wanted me to raise. We discussed the pressures that new developments place on local infrastructure, communication during water outages, and how South East Water is preparing for periods of hot weather and increased demand.
On Friday, I visited Nymans to learn more about the work they do to support the natural environment and local communities. Even in this period of drought the gardens still look fantastic thanks to careful planting, and it was clear that the volunteers at Nymans do a great deal to improve wellbeing and help tackle loneliness and isolation that some many people sadly experience
Throughout the week, I have also been on the TV and radio responding to the new Prime Minister's announcements on social care. For far too long, successive Governments have talked about reform without delivering the lasting change that people who rely on care, their families and carers deserve. I am cautiously optimistic about the prospect of cross-party talks and hope they mark the start of a serious effort to build a social care system which is fit for purpose.
I look forward to continuing to meet residents and businesses across Mid Sussex over the coming weeks. If you have something that you would like to discuss with me, please get in touch via email at alison.bennett.mp@parliament.uk.