News from Westminster
Over the last few months I have had some very interesting visits and meetings in the constituency. Mostly I am in London from Monday to Thursday, and then Fridays and weekends at home in Dorset, and I always enjoy meeting local charities, organisations, businesses as well as local residents!
One meeting was with the MARS Trust. This is a registered charity which was established to inspire young people to experience and use key relationship skills in every area of life. This is to help to ensure that their own relationships will be more fulfilling and less likely to break down as they become adults. Modelling Active Relationship Skills currently runs workshops in several local secondary schools, developing vital skills needed in every area of life, from personal family life to the workplace. I am always keen for young people to have a well-rounded education, and I am grateful to the volunteers who run these sessions. I know that they are always on the lookout for new volunteers, so please let me know if you think that this might be of interest.
I have also recently met the chairman of the Dorset ME support Group, which aims to support people with ME, and promote awareness of the illness. They are doing some excellent work supporting families locally and they are looking for new trustees, and in particular a new treasurer. If you think you could help, there is more information on their website http://www.dorsetmesupport.org.uk/ and get in touch with them.
I was delighted to be able to recommend one of Dorset’s longstanding volunteers for a very special award. The Prime Minister makes a Points of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements. Alison Bennett from Bere Regis, was given the honour for her volunteering work with ‘The Pop In Place’, a local community hub of social action she has run for over 20 years.
I had a very interesting visit to the fire station in Wimborne where I met the Chief Fire Officer. I also had a tour around the station, including viewing all the equipment, and the chance to chat to the operational crews. Please don’t forget to check the batteries in your smoke alarm and CO alarm. If you would like help with this, you can request a visit on their website https://www.dwfire.org.uk/safety/safe-and-well-visits/