It’s hard to believe a year has passed since I was elected as your MP for the Forest of Dean. It’s been a year of hard work, challenges, and meaningful progress. One year in feels like a good time to reflect on some of what my team and I have achieved. Supporting our local community has been at the heart of what we do. I’ve worked closely with fantastic organisations, charities, and businesses across the Forest. I’ve visited schools to host assemblies and Q&As—and even judged an Easter bonnet competition! I’ve also welcomed students to Parliament, giving young people the chance to experience politics firsthand. Securing a new building for Forest High School SGS in Cinderford remains one of my top priorities, as every child deserves a safe, well-equipped place to learn. I’ve raised this directly with the Chancellor, welcomed the Minister for School Buildings to the school, and held repeated meetings with the Department for Education. I will continue campaigning for our young people to have the school they deserve. Public services are the backbone of our community, and supporting their work has been a central part of my role. I joined South Western Ambulance Service for a shift to see firsthand the challenges facing our emergency responders, and I’ve visited vital organisations like the West Midlands Air Ambulance and Severn Area Rescue Association, whose work I know we are all grateful for. I’ve pushed for improvements across the Forest, including holding Gloucestershire County Council to account over roadworks and potholes, backing community-led road safety campaigns in places like Tutshill, and calling for expanded local SEND provision. Farming and the rural economy are vital to our area, and I have met with farmers and the NFU to discuss flooding, agricultural policy, and mental health. I successfully campaigned for Gloucestershire Constabulary to reopen firearm licence applications and hosted the Suntory Growers’ Reception in Parliament to celebrate our Ribena growers. Over the past year, my team and I have supported over 6,000 cases — from housing and health concerns to education and welfare support. I have held regular surgeries across the Forest to listen, help, and act on what matters most to people. In Parliament, I’ve served on three public Bill Committees, shaping key legislation on terrorism, crime, and children’s wellbeing. I’ve raised local concerns, including maternity care, poor digital connectivity, and housing shortages. At Prime Minister’s Questions, I shared a constituent’s powerful story about their brain tumour to push for improvements in cancer care.

It is impossible to detail every case or campaign we’ve worked on and this is just a glimpse of the work behind the scenes. Real progress takes time and dedication, and that’s exactly what I’m committed to delivering as your MP. Thank you to everyone who has contacted me with your concerns, ideas, and stories over the past year. I look forward to continuing to work together to bring about more positive change for our community in the year ahead.