Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for September 2026.

I hope you enjoy this update on some of the work I have been doing in Erith and Thamesmead and in Parliament over the last month.

As ever, if you want to get in touch, don’t hesitate to contact me using the email address: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Abena

Abena

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Government’s Autumn Budget 2026

This month, the Government set out its Autumn Budget, with measures designed to support families, businesses and long-term economic growth.

The Chancellor announced a range of measures that will make a real difference to people here in Erith and Thamesmead. More than 50,000 local households are expected to benefit from the new £100 Household Energy Payment, while hundreds of local businesses will benefit from business rates relief, helping to support our high streets and town centres.

The Budget also includes action to help with energy costs, freeze Fuel Duty, support first-time buyers and invest in our country’s defence and future prosperity.

While there is still more to do, I believe this Budget represents a positive step in the right direction. It will help ease pressure on family finances, support local businesses and create more opportunities for people across our community.

As always, if you have any questions about how the Budget may affect you, your family or our community, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Sign up to my Jobs Fair with Maximus UK

I’m delighted to be partnering with Maximus UK to host a Job Fair for local young people aged 18-24 on Friday 27 November, from 2pm to 5pm at Plumstead Fire Station.

Taking that first step into work can be difficult, and I want to make it easier for young people to meet employers and hear directly about the opportunities open to them.

Please do share the attached flyer and QR code with any young people who may be interested in attending. You can find out more through the link here.

Visit to Northwood Primary Breakfast Club

I was delighted to visit Northwood Primary School to see first-hand the impact of the Government’s newest wave of free breakfast clubs in our community.

Thank you to the staff and pupils for such a warm welcome. It was great to hear how the breakfast club is helping children start the school day ready to learn.

King David Nursery

Delighted to visit King David Nursery in Erith. It was wonderful to meet the children and staff, and to discuss the challenges facing local nurseries and infant care in Bexley with the nursery’s team. Thank you for the warm welcome.

Homecoming Parade in Woolwich

Honoured to join the Homecoming Parade of the 1st Battalion, Princess of Wales Regiment, in Woolwich.

It was a privilege to speak with returning soldiers and senior military officers, and to thank them for their service to our country.

Christmas Card Competition

This annual competition is designed for primary school children locally and this year’s theme is “Christmas in Our Community”.

The winning design will be sent out across the constituency, as well as to the Prime Minister and the King. To find out more, click here.

You can also support my competition by sponsoring the printing and postage costs. You’ll be backing a community initiative and get your logo on the card as well. Find out more by getting in touch via email: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk  

Marking Black History Month 2026

This month marked the 39th year of Black History Month in the UK. As the daughter of Ghanaian parents, this year’s theme, “Honouring Our Communities”, is particularly meaningful to me.

I was proud to speak in the House of Commons debate, highlighting the contributions of local community champions including Michelle Rankin, John Okungbaiye and Benedicta Okpor. You can watch a clip from my speech here.

I also attended a number of Black History Month events and receptions celebrating the achievements of Black Britons across the country.

First Month as Chair of the HCLG Committee

This month, I chaired my first three meetings as Chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee.

The Committee examined plans to revitalise our high streets, modernise elections, and improve fire and rescue services. A key part of our role is scrutinising government policy and holding ministers to account.

You can learn more about my work as Chair on the HCLG Committee website here, or watch our sessions every Tuesday when Parliament is sitting here.

Furthermore:

• Stock Exchange Visit – Delighted to join the next Leaders Live session at the London Stock Exchange to discuss insightful conversation, fresh perspectives and inspiring leadership stories.
• Fireworks Season – I know that many in our community have concerns about how Fireworks can impact our community. I was pleased to see the government consult about ways to reduce the impact and would be pleased to hear from residents about these proposals and continued concerns going forward. Read more here.
• Wear Red Day – Proud to support Wear Red Day 2026, joining millions across the county to stand up against racism and show it the red card.
• Wear It Pink – Pleased to join Baroness Merron, Minister for Women’s Health, to mark Breast Cancer Now’s Wear It Pink Day. Regular checks could save lives.
• Shooters Hill Thames Water Works – If you live in Shooters Hill, you may be impacted by major works happening by Thames Water to improve mains in the area. If you have any questions or concerns please get in touch and find out more here.  
• British Beauty Week Reception – It was important to join the British Beauty Council and hear about the value of the beauty industry locally and nationally and what more parliamentarians can do to support the industry.
• Happy Dashain – Wishing all in the local Nepalese community a happy Dashain, a time when families come together and share good wishes for the future.
• Monthly Surgery – Important as always to do my regular surgery this month to speak to residents who need assistance. Don’t hesitate to reach out via email or phone to my office if you need any support from me as your local MP.

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