One of the privileges of being your MP is getting to visit so many brilliant organisations across Bexhill and Battle. They don't often make the headlines, but they are making a real difference to people's lives every single day. We are facing challenges across the constituency, in towns and villages, by the coast and in the countryside. They help everywhere and I don’t get to thank them as often as I would like to.
In a debate about the challenges coastal towns like Bexhill face, I did at least get to thank a lot of the organisations helping in Bexhill. What struck me as I prepared for that debate was just how much is already being done by local people and for their neighbours and communities. Over the past few months I've spent time visiting some of them.
The Rother Family Hub in Sidley is a great example. From baby groups and youth activities to advice on parenting, wellbeing and finances, they're helping families get the support they need before small problems become much bigger ones.
I also recently visited Bexhill Caring Community after meeting the team at my Jobs Fair. They do fantastic work helping older residents remain independent, whether that's through befriending, transport to medical appointments or putting people in touch with trusted carers and tradespeople. It was inspiring to hear about the difference they make to so many people's lives.
The Pelham continues to provide youth work, counselling and volunteering opportunities for young people. Bexhill Family Collective is supporting local families through childcare, food provision and outdoor learning. Freedom Church Sidley's Marketplace is helping tackle food insecurity while creating a welcoming community space. There are so many others too - Bexhill Foodbank, Warming Up The Homeless, Bexhill and Rother Homelessness Unity Group and many more - all doing incredible work, often with little recognition.
These organisations remind us that while Government has an important role to play, strong communities are built by local people who care enough to get involved and make a difference.
As well as challenges there are opportunities to come for Bexhill. The £20 million Town Deal, secured by the previous Conservative Government, gives us a real opportunity to invest in the town. Progress has been slower than I would have liked after delays by the current Government, but work is now moving forward and I'm ambitious about what we can achieve together.
Like Battle and our local villages, Bexhill is a town full of people who care about where they live. Whether it’s volunteers giving up their time, charities supporting vulnerable residents or community groups bringing people together, there is a huge amount to be proud of.
So, this week, whether you are in Bexhill or anywhere else in the constituency I simply wanted to say thank you. Thank you to everyone who gives their time to help others. Your work may not always attract attention, but it is helping to make the whole constituency a stronger, kinder and more connected place to live.
