As your MP, it has been a privilege and a pleasure to see the power of community involvement in promoting positive change across our city over recent weeks.
I was immensely proud to welcome Bath Philharmonia’s young carers orchestra to Parliament. So many talented and inspirational children highlighted the challenges that they as young carers face and how music can help them overcome barriers. It was a reminder of the importance of supporting young carers in music education settings nationwide and ensuring they are not overlooked in national plans. The Bath Philharmonia project provides young carers with a safe place to build relationships with their peers while developing their musical talent, as they often miss out on opportunities to spend time with friends.
We also celebrated the 75th birthday of one of our most important institutions, the NHS. The creation of the National Health Service is one of the UK Parliament’s greatest achievements and it gives me great pride to represent a constituency that has such fantastic, hardworking NHS staff within it. However, whilst celebrating this momentous occasion, it is important to remember that we cannot take the NHS for granted, and we must protect it. This occasion should renew our vigour to defend this vital institution that has touched so many lives.
I continue to be inspired by the passion and commitment of our community. Attending the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast with members of Bath Abbey was a moving experience. Our discussion emphasised the power of forgiveness in public life and the importance of kindness and understanding in our public discourse. In these times of divisiveness and hostility, it is more crucial than ever that we embrace these values and work towards a more united and compassionate society.
I was also thrilled to visit the Bath Organic Group’s garden on the Upper Bristol Road. It is so important that we recognise the critical role of community involvement in promoting sustainable farming practices and protecting our British farming community. We cannot allow our agricultural standards to be compromised, and we must fight for the protection of our wildlife, especially as regulations come under threat as we navigate the difficulties of Brexit.
