Talking Politics column with Josh Fenton-Glynn MP: 'It’s been fantastic to spend more time in the communities'
The six weeks of summer recess, when Parliament does not meet, ended on September 1. I always think it’s important to use the opportunities I have to spend time with my family. I love my job but it’s been great to read more bedtime stories and play outside with my kids. But recess is not a holiday, it’s a chance to do a different part of my role.
It’s been fantastic to spend more time in the communities that elected me. When Parliament is sitting I’m in London from Monday to Thursday representing you, so I only have Fridays and weekends at home. There are more brilliant people and organisations in Calder Valley than I could ever meet in one day a week, so it’s been a privilege to get out and talk to more of you.
Over summer you may have seen my water safety campaign, which began following the tragic loss of a 13-year-old boy in a local reservoir. We now have a new water safety partnership in Calderdale focused on three main areas to help save lives. We need more education about the risks of open water and what to do if something goes wrong. This summer we held three days of action across Calderdale to teach lifesaving skills to young people and the public. We also need everyone to be strong swimmers. And finally, we need lifesaving equipment at the waterside with clear instructions on how to use it. Thanks to the emergency services and other partners who are working with me to bring change.
I’ve met with local businesses about issues ranging from steel tariffs, supporting hospitality and ensuring smaller companies can be part of the defence supply chain. This week I’m meeting with a Calder Valley success story, Suma Wholefoods in Elland. They are one of the UK's largest worker-owned co-operatives.
I’ve also met with many public sector organisations, including the SEND Local Area Partnership, which brings together bodies including the council and NHS to improve services for children and young people who need extra support in school.
Some of the most memorable visits have been to organisations working at the frontline with people whose lives are difficult for different reasons. I was privileged to hear from clients of Project Colt in Elland, a superb charity helping people dealing with addiction. I visited Noah’s Ark, who support people across Calderdale with everything from money management to counselling. And I held two surgeries on antisocial behaviour in Todmorden and Elland alongside the police and Together Housing.
Finally, this summer I knocked on doors across Calder Valley as often as humanly possible. Thanks to everyone who took the time to speak to me. There is nothing more grounding and useful than hearing from residents about what they need from our government.
This week I’ll be back in Westminster with every conversation ringing in my ears. Politics doesn’t happen in a vacuum, and democracy isn’t something that happens every five years. I’m grateful to everyone who spoke to me and, if we didn’t catch up this time, please get in touch. Whether you’re an individual, organisation or business in Calder Valley, you’re part of the community I love and I want to help.