I am pleased to be hosting a Coffee Morning in Redmarley on April 18, 10 am–12 pm, and I’d be delighted if you could join me. These events give me the chance to hear directly from you—so I can better understand your concerns, your ideas, and the issues that matter most in our communities. If you can’t make this one or it’s a bit out of your way, don’t worry—I hold these regularly across the constituency and hope to see you at one soon.

If you’d like to attend, visit evenbrite.co.uk and search Coffee Morning with Matt

Last week brought a series of important changes to workers’ rights—practical measures that will affect so many in the Forest of Dean. These changes will be felt in pay packets, job security, and day-to-day working life. Proper change for all working people.

Here are some of the key developments:

Pay rise for millions The National Living Wage has increased by 4.1% to £12.71 per hour, benefiting around 2.4 million low-paid workers.

Boost for younger workers The National Minimum Wage for 18–20-year-olds has risen by 8.5% to £10.85 per hour—worth around £1,500 a year for someone working full time. This also narrows the gap with the National Living Wage, a step towards ending age-based pay differences.

2.7 million people better off Taken together, these wage increases will boost the earnings of around 2.7 million workers across the UK.

Day one parental rights Employees are now entitled to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave from their first day in a job—a major shift towards more flexible and family-friendly workplaces.

Support in bereavement Bereaved fathers and partners now have the right to take up to 52 weeks of unpaid leave, recognising the need for time and space during the most difficult moments.

Stronger whistleblower protections Protections have been extended to cover disclosures of sexual harassment, ensuring individuals can speak out without fear of unfair dismissal or mistreatment.

Sick pay from day one Statutory Sick Pay is now available from the first day of illness, and the lower earnings limit has been removed—meaning more low-paid workers are now eligible.

Easier union recognition Changes make it simpler for workers to organise and secure trade union recognition, strengthening their ability to negotiate better pay and conditions.

Fair Work Agency launched A new Fair Work Agency is now in place, bringing together enforcement powers to ensure that workplace rights are properly upheld.

Taken together, these changes mark a meaningful step towards a fairer labour market—one that better reflects the realities of modern working life and offers greater security to those who need it most.

Last week also saw the cruel two-child benefit cap scrapped—an important change that will help lift many children in the Forest of Dean out of poverty. It reflects a clear commitment to prioritising children’s wellbeing and ensuring families can meet their essential needs.