While Parliament has been in summer recess, I have had a wonderful time meeting with constituents, community groups, businesses and charities who all play such a vital role in making our area a wonderful place to live.
One of the most moving visits I made was to TLC Solihull, where Anita and her incredible team run a day centre offering support for people living with dementia and other older members of our community. I was struck by the warmth, care and attentiveness shown to every individual. It’s more than just a centre, it’s a lifeline for so many, filled with laughter, conversation, music and companionship.
I also visited the Memory Café at Dorridge Methodist Church, which support people affected by dementia. The café, funded and staffed by Unique Care, provides a safe and welcoming space for conversation and connection and is testament to what we can achieve when local organisations come together for a shared purpose.
Faith and community support were also central to my meeting with Rev Bekah Clark. We discussed the crucial role churches play, not just spiritually but through youth work, outreach, and supporting our most vulnerable residents.
On the topic of inspirational people, I had the pleasure of catching up with Mikey Akers, a local campaigner raising awareness of speech dyspraxia. Mikey’s efforts, including a petition debated in Parliament earlier this year, have already made a real difference.
I’ve also been proud to support our local economy and meet some of the businesses that keep it thriving. At Solus Ceramics, I toured their site and spoke with Ryan and the team about the challenges they’re facing, particularly around supply chains and international trade. It’s great to see businesses like this keeping the West Midlands on the map for British ceramics and providing valuable skilled jobs locally.
Supporting our rural economy is equally important. At Temple House Farm, I met with farmers and NFU representatives to hear first-hand the concerns about the Government’s changes to Family Farm Tax. These changes risk putting unsustainable pressure on already stretched businesses.
I was also honoured to attend VJ Day commemorations in Temple Balsall and Berkswell. These services were a powerful reminder of the bravery, resilience and sacrifice of those who served in the Far East during the Second World War. Laying a wreath at the refurbished war memorial in Berkswell was a solemn moment and a chance to reflect on the price of peace.
Finally, I spent a great day on the canal with Solihull Canoe Club, where I spoke with local athletes including Paralympic medallist Rob Oliver and world-class paddler Tom Lusty. We also discussed litter and water safety issues, which I will continue to campaign on back in Parliament.
It’s been a busy and uplifting summer, and I remain deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to meet with me and share their work, their concerns and their stories. I’ll be taking all this back with me to Westminster. There is much to do but I know as a community, working together, we will be successful.
