Last week saw the Government set out its latest Budget, with a package of measures aimed at helping households with the cost of living, supporting local businesses and investing in communities. I wanted to take the opportunity to explain what some of these announcements mean for people here in the Forest of Dean.

One of the biggest pressures people continue to raise with me is the cost of energy. That is why I welcome the new £2.6 billion Energy Bills Breathing Space scheme, which will put £ 100 directly into the bank accounts of eligible households in council tax Bands A to D this winter. Here in the Forest, around 34,230 properties fall into those bands, meaning thousands of local households could benefit.

We are also extending the temporary zero rate of VAT on electricity until July 2027 and capping new energy bill levies until 2030. Alongside tackling household energy debt and reforming gas standing charges, this is about preventing bills from rising further and giving families much-needed breathing space.

I also know how important our independent shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants are to the Forest. They are at the heart of our high streets and local communities, providing jobs and bringing people together. The Budget will increase Small Business Rates Relief thresholds, with around 56 per cent of eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties across the South West expected to pay no business rates at all.

On top of that, a real-terms business rates freeze for eligible businesses in 2027/28 and 2028/29 is expected to benefit around 347 properties in the Forest of Dean. This is practical support for local businesses facing rising costs and doing their best to keep their doors open.

There was also good news for local families. Two schools in the constituency, Huntley Church of England Primary School and Bream Church of England Primary School, have continued to secure funding for breakfast clubs. This will help children start the school day ready to learn, while giving parents some extra support with the morning routine.

Looking ahead, the Government is also investing in the next generation of homeowners through its £4.7 billion Your First Home programme. With deposits starting at 2.5 per cent for eligible buyers, this is intended to help more people take their first step onto the property ladder.

Further measures support local growth, including new funding for mayors and local leaders to invest in their communities, alongside £722 million already invested by the National Wealth Fund across the South West since 2021.

Of course, no Budget can solve every challenge overnight. But what matters is making sure national decisions translate into real improvements locally.

Whether that means lower pressure on household bills, support for our high streets, opportunities for young people or helping families get on the housing ladder, I want to see the Forest of Dean benefit.

I will continue to make sure our communities are heard in Westminster and that the decisions being made deliver for the people who live and work here.