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Winner of My Christmas Card Competition 2025

I am delighted to announce the successful conclusion of my Christmas Card Competition 2025 for Erith and Thamesmead.

This annual competition invites schools from across our constituency to take part.

The theme for this year was: ‘Love Erith and Thamesmead: portraits of local landmarks’.

Pupils were asked to draw or paint a design that showed a local landmark in our constituency ensuring it has a Christmas theme. This might have included sporting venues that make them happy, the parks or open spaces, local communities, shops, or even family and friends on a visit to a chosen landmark.  

As always, I would like to thank our fantastic students across the constituency who illustrated designs that show what they feel makes our constituency the fun place it is.

The artwork was assessed by a panel of judges, and I used the winning design as my Christmas Card this year, which was sent to over 1000 local people, businesses, and community groups. I also sent my card to the Prime Minister, the House of Commons Speaker and the King!

We had a great turnout from many enthusiastic students with many fun designs being sent in. I want to thank the schools, teachers, and parents who dedicated time to help organise the competition.

Congratulations to this year’s winner, Tanvi, Year 1, from Belvedere Infant School. Her design – alongside my full Christmas Card – can be seen below. She also wrote the below text to go with her design:

“I like to go to Lesnes Abbey Woods Park because it makes me happy. I can make new friends in the park and I play with them.”

I was delighted to meet Tanvi and her lovely family during a visit to Belvedere Infant School.

It was also great to join the House of Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, to present Tanvi’s design during his annual Christmas Card Showcase for MPs.

With special thanks to the sponsors of my card, who backed this year’s competition – including Edible Oils Limited, Oscar Mayer, and Manak Solicitors.    

Abena Oppong-Asare MP’s Full Christmas Card 2025:

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November 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for November 2025.

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

Autumn Budget and the DLR to Thamesmead Confirmed

The Chancellor’s November Budget takes important steps to ease the cost of living, reduce national debt, and cut NHS waiting lists. It includes measures such as increasing the National Living Wage, freezing prescription charges, protecting the triple lock, and committing to lift over 450,000 children out of poverty during this Parliament.

Crucially for Erith and Thamesmead, the Budget also delivers a major win for our constituency: the long-awaited DLR extension to Thamesmead is finally moving forward. After decades of waiting, this transformational project will unlock new homes create jobs, and open up opportunities for local residents.

I was delighted to join the MP for West Ham and Beckton to mark this landmark announcement, which will benefit both our constituencies. You can watch our video together on social media here. Having heard directly from residents, I know how much this matters. One local resident, Peter, who has lived in Thamesmead for over 40 years, told me how pleased he is that this long-promised improvement is finally becoming a reality.

I look forward to working with partners to ensure this vital project is delivered. You can find out more on my website or listen to my BBC London Radio interview with Eddie Nestor CBE.

Remembrance Day Events 2025

It was an honour to represent Erith and Thamesmead this November during several important Remembrance Day events in our community and in Parliament.

I joined the Wreath laying at Memorial Hospital in Shooters Hill and Thamesmead Clocktower in Thamesmead town centre as well as Plumstead Cemetery followed by the War memorial at Woolwich New Cemetery.

Then on Remembrance Sunday I attended St Michael & All Angels in Abbey Wood,
followed by a visit to Abbey Wood Memorial Gardens, where poignant artwork by local schoolchildren was on display.

I also pay tribute to the volunteers who supported the Royal British Legion to raise funds for such a great cause and I was pleased to meet some of them at their stand in Morrisons, Thamesmead.

Finally, it was an honour to attend the opening of the House of Commons Gardens of Remembrance with the Speaker of the House of Commons and colleagues. Proud to plant my tribute on behalf of Erith and Thamesmead constituency in memory of all who served and sacrificed for our country.

Campaign Win for 244 Commuters

Fantastic news for local commuters who use the 244 bus: after years of campaigning, Transport for London (TfL) has finally confirmed that double-decker buses are coming to the constantly overcrowded 244!

I’ve been pushing hard on this and I’m pleased TfL has listened to our community. I’m told that new electric double decker buses will be rolled out as they become available from the manufacturer, through the first few months of 2026. However, you may have seen some double decker buses already in operation!

Don’t hesitate to reach out to me about how this impacts you and find out more on my website here.

Officially opening the Off the Ropes Boxing Charity in Abbey Wood

I was thrilled to cut the ribbon and officially launch the Off the Ropes boxing charity at the Oxleas NHS Trust Goldie Leigh site in Abbey Wood.

It was fantastic to be joined by Oxleas CEO Dr Ify Okocha, Off the Ropes lead Warren Dunkley, and so many others to mark this exciting milestone. Their incredible team is helping local people build strength, confidence, and resilience – both inside and outside the ring.

What an inspiring mission, and huge congratulations to everyone involved. Great to have a chance to show off my boxing skills also! You can find out more about their work here: https://offtheropes.org.uk.

Willow Bank Primary School Visit

It was a pleasure to visit Willow Bank Primary School and spend time with pupils, staff, and parents. I joined the breakfast club, spoke with the school community at their sharing assembly, and met with the School Ambassadors. It was a great opportunity to hear children’s views on local community issues and to share insights about my role as their MP.

St John Fisher Catholic Primary School Visit

Great to visit St John Fisher School recently also. The pupils gave me a very creative and warm welcome and asked brilliant questions about Parliament and life as an MP. Inspiring to see such engaged young people – future leaders of Erith & Thamesmead!

Dominoes Visit

Great visit to the Domino’s Pizza store in West Thamesmead and even to get a chance to make a pizza! Huge thanks to Georgiana and the team for the warm welcome and for showing me the skill and hard work that goes into their business. 


Thamesmead Islamic Centre Visit

I had the chance to attend and observe prayers at the Thamesmead Islamic Centre. It was great to hear about the important contribution of the Islamic Centre to the local community and seeking to provide great social value. It was also a good opportunity to hear directly from constituents about their local concerns and pick up important casework.


Campaign Summer School Visit to 10 Downing Street and Parliament

Delighted to welcome graduates from my Campaign Summer School to Westminster! They met the Prime Minister’s team at No.10 and heard from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy MP, alongside Jess Morden MP and Uma Kumaran MP. It was inspiring to see their enthusiasm and commitment to getting involved. Find out more about my 2025 Campaign Summer School here.

Fireworks Coalition Event in Parliament

It was important to join the Fireworks Impact Coalition in Parliament this month. Many constituents have raised serious concerns about the impact of fireworks on themselves, animals, and the wider community.

Attending this event, hosted by the coalition and supported by organisations such as the RSPCA, provided an opportunity to hear directly from those affected.

I welcomed the Government’s public safety campaign this year, which has helped raise awareness of these issues, and I have assured constituents that their views will be fed into the upcoming review on this topic.

Black Maternal Health Parliamentary event

It was great to speak at the Maternal Mental Health Alliance’s (MMHA) Black Maternal Health parliamentary event, hosted with the Motherhood Group.

We heard about MMHA’s new report and the vital work being led by activists to advance Black maternal health. It was also brilliant to be joined by the Minister for Women’s Health, Baroness Merron, and Baroness Luciana Berger, Chair of MMHA.

Sikh Parliamentary Event sponsored by Tan Dhesi MP

Pleased to join Tan Dhesi MP at this event alongside Erith and Belvedere Temple member Bakhshish Singh Tumber. The event marked the 350th anniversary of the 9th Sikh Guru’s sacrifice. Thanks also to the Supreme Sikh Council UK for organising.

My work in Parliament as PPS to the Prime Minister

This month, I have continued my work as Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Prime Minister. As we approach the end of the year, I’ve been working closely with parliamentary colleagues to help drive forward the Government’s Plan for Change.

Furthermore:

  • My ‘Meet Your MP’ Coffee Mornings – Delighted to promote these events, which
    you find out more about and sign up on my website here.
  • Morning After Pill free on the NHS – Delighted by this news that the morning-after pill is now available free of charge on the NHS. This Government is breaking down
    barriers with the biggest advances in women’s reproductive health since the 1960s.
  • Bring Kids Back Campaign – Proud to support the Bring Kids Back campaign on #WorldChildrens Day. We must stand together and demand the return of thousands of Ukrainian children, who are being kept from their families in Russia.
  • UK Parliament Week – Thanks to all those who reached out to me about taking part in UK Parliament Week. Great to see so many involved in our democracy.
  • White Ribbon Day – Proud to wear a White Ribbon as people come together to
    stand up against men’s violence against women and girls.
  • Sepsis & Leukaemia Awareness Week – Proud to wear the ribbon supporting
    Sepsis & Leukaemia Awareness Week and to meet the family and friends of Jibraan
    Chaudhary during their visit.
  • World Mental Health Day – Important to mark this awareness day in November.
  • World AIDS Day – December 1st was World AIDS Day so I was proud to share my
    support for all those working hard to make it so no one has to die from AIDS again.
  • Home Instead Dartford and All Saints Belvedere Parliament Tours – Delighted
    that I was able to sponsor a visit and tour of Parliament for both these groups this
    November. If you are a resident or organisation based in Erith and Thamesmead,
    don’t hesitate to reach out at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Stay updated on social media

For regular updates on my activities, follow me on Twitter (@abenaopp), Facebook (Abena Oppong-Asare MP, Erith and Thamesmead), and Instagram (abena.oppongasare.mp).

You can also sign up to my digital newsletter at www.abenaoppongasare.com/get_in_touch

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Abena welcomes breakthrough on campaign pledge to deliver DLR extension to Thamesmead

Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, has welcomed reports that the Government is expected to confirm funding for the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) extension to Thamesmead in next week’s Budget – a major milestone for a project she has championed since her election in 2019.

The extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead – with a new station at Beckton – would bring a rail link to Thamesmead for the first time and help tackle decades of transport inequality in one of London’s most transport deprived areas. Journey times to Stratford could fall from currently up to 55 minutes to around 25 to 30 minutes, with commuters also able to reach Canary Wharf in 20 to 25 minutes and Liverpool Street in 35 to 40 minutes.

Extending the line is expected to unlock 25,000 new homes, up to 10,000 jobs and nearly £18 billion in private investment over 30 years – a scale of regeneration that would benefit both existing residents and future generations. It is believed over half a million people that live in Erith and Thamesmead and the wider area will benefit from this extension.

Abena was first elected on a pledge to campaign for this project, and she launched the #NextStopThamesmead campaign immediately after being elected. She has spent years driving cross-party and cross-institution support – including engagement with the Mayor of London, TfL, local authorities, developers and ministers.

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:

“This is a huge step forward for Thamesmead. For too long, residents have been cut off from the transport links that much of London takes for granted. The DLR extension will finally change that – opening up access to jobs, education and opportunities across the capital.”

“I have championed this from day one. I raised it in my maiden speech and I’ve pushed ever since for the investment and regeneration our community deserves.”

“This breakthrough belongs to everyone who backed the campaign – residents, community groups and partners across London. Now we need confirmation in the Budget and a clear path to delivery, because Thamesmead has waited long enough.”

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said:

“I’m really pleased that the Government is backing the DLR extension to Thamesmead – something I’ve long called for alongside London’s businesses and communities. The project is a win-win and a massive vote of confidence in London. It will not only transform travel in a historically underserved part of the capital, but also unlock thousands of new jobs and homes, boosting the economy not just locally but nationally.

 “I look forward to working hand in hand with Ministers to deliver this vital project as we continue building a more prosperous London for everyone.”

The plan aligns well with the Chancellor’s pledge to choose growth over austerity in the Budget and drive renewal in every part of the UK.

This breakthrough comes just months after the Chancellor committed at the Spending Review to working with Transport for London (TfL) to explore options for delivering the DLR extension to Thamesmead. It also follows the government’s announcement in September that Thamesmead has been identified by the New Towns Taskforce as one of 12 recommended locations for the next generation of new towns.

The Autumn Budget will be delivered by the Chancellor on Wednesday 26 November 2025.

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Attending the Fireworks Impact Coalition Event in Parliament

I was pleased to attend the Fireworks Impact Coalition event in Parliament on 12 November to hear firsthand from organisations and individuals about the impact fireworks can have on animals, vulnerable people and communities. I know this is an issue many constituents in Erith and Thamesmead have raised with me, and I take these concerns very seriously.

While the vast majority of people use fireworks safely and responsibly, it is important that we continue to minimise the risk of harm. I therefore welcome the Government’s ongoing work to engage with charities, businesses and consumer groups to examine the current legislation and gather evidence on where improvements may be needed.

I am also encouraged by the Government’s fireworks public safety campaign for this year, which provides clearer public guidance and highlights the risks of misuse. I will follow developments closely, including the progress of the Fireworks Bill, and continue to represent the concerns of my constituents on this issue.

Thank you once again to all those who have raised this issue with me.

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Abena celebrates local victory as double decker buses to be introduced on overcrowded 244

Local Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, Abena Oppong-Asare, has welcomed Transport for London’s (TfL) announcement that double-decker buses will finally be introduced on the consistently overcrowded 244 route, following years of campaigning by local residents, community groups and representatives.

The change will significantly increase passenger capacity on the busy route, which serves key local areas including Shooters Hill, Woolwich, Thamesmead, and Abbey Wood. TfL confirmed that the new double-decker buses will be phased in over the coming months, alongside updated journey planning information and stop notices.

This marks a major milestone in a long-running local campaign. Back in 2017, TfL proposed wide-ranging route changes, including making the 244 double-decker, but these plans never materialised – leaving residents increasingly frustrated.

The issue has been of particular concern to Shooters Hill residents and members of the Shrewsbury Park Residents’ Association, who have highlighted overcrowding for nearly a decade.

Since taking on Shooters Hill as part of her constituency in 2024, Abena Oppong-Asare MP has repeatedly raised the issue with TfL – experiencing the overcrowding herself and pressing for urgent improvements.

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:
“This is fantastic news for local residents who have been raising concerns about overcrowding on the 244 for many years.

“It was vital for me to raise this directly with TfL and I’m delighted that they have listened to our community and agreed to introduce double-decker buses. This will make a real difference for commuters, the elderly, school pupils and families who rely on this service every day.

“I’d like to pay tribute all those who together have worked tirelessly over the years to keep this issue on the agenda. This is a great example of what we can achieve when residents and representatives work together.”

TfL had previously indicated that an update would be provided in early autumn 2024, but no confirmation followed. The latest announcement now confirms concrete plans to increase capacity, with double-decker buses being phased in after changes to stopping arrangements in Thamesmead.

Abena Oppong-Asare MP visiting a 244 bus stop in Shooters Hill to mark the victory:

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October 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for October 2025.

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

Another Month of Local Wins for Erith and Thamesmead

This month has brought some great wins for our constituency of Erith and Thamesmead. Here are a few key updates and what they mean for residents like you:

  • Renters’ Rights Bill Becomes Law – Delighted to celebrate this momentous moment alongside the implementation of the first phase of Awaab’s law, which promises to protect tenants from dangerous social housing conditions. For too long, families have faced insecurity, sudden evictions, and poor housing. Over 115,000 renters across Greenwich and Bexley will now have stronger protections, safer homes and real peace of mind. Find out more here.
  • New £80m Back to Work Funding – Vital Government package will help people overcome barriers to employment and get back into work. Find out more here.
  • Plumstead Police Station Front Counter to Stay Open – After making representations to the Met Police and the Deputy Mayor, I’m pleased the front counter in Plumstead will stay open. Find out more here.
  • New Family Hub for Bexley – Delighted to welcome this new investment in Bexley to support children and families, alongside expanded childcare and new free breakfast clubs right here in our community. Find out more here.
  • Thamesmead shortlisted for ‘New Towns’ Programme – Pleased to see our community being prioritised as an area to deliver new homes, improve transport links – with a possible DLR extension – and create local jobs. Find out more here.
  • Extra Funding to tackle Homelessness – Homelessness has doubled since 2010, ruining too many lives. I’m glad to see an £84 million boost this month, including over £640,000 for Bexley and Greenwich. Find out more here.

I’m proud of the progress we’re making and will keep working hard to deliver for everyone in Erith and Thamesmead.

Morris Mission Event

I was so pleased to be at the launch of Morris Mission CIC on Friday 10th October. From first meeting Shantel Morris at an advice surgery last year, it’s amazing to see the growth of Morris Mission and the progress that her and the team are making to support those affected by homelessness in the area.

Visit to Shooters Hill Tennis Club

Fantastic to receive such a warm welcome from the team at Shooters Hill Lawn Tennis Club (SHLTC). It’s a thriving and well-maintained club with bold ambitions for the future. Looking forward to being back there soon.

Visit to Age UK Bexley at Belvedere Community Centre

The Age UK Bexley team at Belvedere Community Centre are not only committed to championing the wellbeing of Bexley’s elderly residents, but also supporting the broader initiatives of the Community Centre. It was great to visit and witness this commitment first hand.

Visit to Guru Nanak Durbar Erith & Belvedere Sikh Temple

Really enjoyed the opportunity I had to meet with members of the committee at Erith & Belvedere Sikh Temple and see the development of the temple as it nears completion.

Poppy Appeal at Morrisons

Delighted to join Thamesmead and Abbey Wood’s Royal British Legion to launch their Poppy Appeal this year. It was a privilege to contribute to the appeal and have a chance to reflect on remembrance. Thanks also to the team at Morrisons in Thamesmead for hosting the appeal.

Remembering John O’Rourke

This month, I was honoured to attend the funeral of John O’Rourke, a great local champion and Chair of the Royal British Legion Branch in Thamesmead and Abbey Wood. It was a privilege to know John and to open the Children’s Memorial at Abbey Wood Garden earlier this year – a wonderful project he cared deeply about. He will be greatly missed.

Speaking with Oxleas BAMEx Staff Network

Very pleased to join the BAMEx Staff Network at Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust this month to talk about my journey into politics and what Black History Month means to me. Grateful for the chance to meet and hear from many passionate NHS staff from our community.

Celebrating Black History Month

I’m proud to celebrate Black History Month and to honour those who have shaped our nation and continue to drive positive change in their communities. This year, I was delighted to attend a number of significant receptions – at City Hall with the Mayor of London, in Parliament with the Speaker of the Commons, and at the Foreign Office and 10 Downing Street with the Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, and the Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy. It was inspiring to see so many outstanding voices embodying this year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride.”

My work in Parliament as PPS to the Prime Minister

As I mentioned in my previous update, I have recently taken on the role of Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Prime Minister. Over the past month, I’ve been focused on helping the Prime Minister prepare for Prime Minister’s Questions each Wednesday and on working closely with my parliamentary colleagues to advance the Government’s Plan for Change. I’m committed to delivering meaningful results for residents in Erith and Thamesmead and across the country.

Furthermore:

  • Manchester Synagogue Attack – My thoughts remain with the victims of this terrible attack in Manchester, their loved ones, and the wider Jewish community. I welcome the Government’s announcement of up to £10 million in emergency funding to help protect synagogues and Jewish schools across the country.
  • Peacehaven Mosque Fire – I have also been deeply concerned by this shocking act of arson and stand with the Home Secretary and Prime Minister in condemning it. I also welcome the Government’s commitment of £10 million to strengthen security and protect Muslim communities across the UK.
  • Nepal Flooding – Important to share my deepest sympathy to all those impacted by the tragic flooding in Nepal this month. My thoughts are especially with our local Nepalese community here, who I know have be worried for loved ones.
  • Welcomed Community Hospice to Parliament – Delighted to welcome Kate Heaps and her team at Community Hospice, where I’m a Patron, to Parliament for Hospice Care Week.
  • New Youth club in Thamesmead East – Residents have been asking for a new youth space for years, and I’ve been proud to raise it alongside them – now it’s finally happening! Massive thanks to local Cllr Zainab Asunramu for leading the charge.
  • Three Rivers Bexley Awarded £1m to Boost Arts & Culture – Great to hear that Three Rivers Bexley are getting £1m from Arts Council England to boost arts & culture in our community.
  • Yom Kippur and Sukkot – Pleased to mark these important moments of reflection and celebration with our Jewish community in Erith and Thamesmead this month.
  • Happy Diwali – Wished everyone celebrating in Erith & Thamesmead and across the country a very Happy Diwali this month.
  • World Mental Health Day – Proud to mark this important annual day and support Young Minds UK by wearing yellow out in the community.

Stay updated on social media

For regular updates on my activities, follow me on Twitter (@abenaopp), Facebook (Abena Oppong-Asare MP, Erith and Thamesmead), and Instagram (abena.oppongasare.mp).

You can also sign up to my digital newsletter at www.abenaoppongasare.com/get_in_touch

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Renters Rights Bill Becomes Law – “A Momentous Victory for Renters in Erith and Thamesmead”

Abena Oppong-Asare, Labour MP for Erith and Thamesmead, has hailed this week as a momentous and landmark moment for renters, as the Renters’ Rights Bill officially receives Royal Assent, delivering the biggest reform of renting in over forty years.

More than eleven million private renters across England, including over 2.7 million in London and over 115,000 in Greenwich and Bexley boroughs, will now benefit from stronger rights, greater security and fairer treatment in their homes. This will mean tens of thousands more families in Erith and Thamesmead constituency living in safer and more secure homes.

The new law abolishes Section 21 no-fault evictions, ending the practice that allowed landlords to remove tenants without reason. It introduces periodic tenancies so renters can stay as long as they need and gives councils new powers to crack down on rogue landlords.

The Act also ends rental bidding wars that push up costs, extends Awaab’s Law to private tenants to force landlords to fix dangerous damp and mould quickly, and applies the Decent Homes Standard to private rented homes for the first time. It makes discrimination against tenants with children or those receiving benefits illegal, creates a new Private Rented Sector Database and Ombudsman to improve transparency and ensure swift and fair dispute resolution, and strengthens renters’ rights to request pets so landlords can no longer refuse without good reason.

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:

“This is a historic moment for renters in Erith and Thamesmead and across the country. For too long, families have faced insecurity, sudden evictions, and poor housing. That ends now.

“In the boroughs of Greenwich and Bexley, over 115,000 private renters will now have stronger rights, safer homes and real peace of mind.

“Labour has done in fifteen months what the Conservatives failed to deliver in fourteen years. We are giving renters the security and fairness they deserve – safe, stable homes where people can build their lives.

“But our work continues. In May’s local elections, we need strong Labour councils working with this Government to raise standards, enforce the rules, and build a fairer housing system for all.”

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed, said:

“Our historic Act marks the biggest leap forward in renters’ rights in a generation. We are finally ending the injustice overseen by previous governments that has left millions living in fear of losing their homes.

“For decades, the scales have been tipped against tenants. Now, we’re levelling the playing field between renters and landlords.

“We are tearing down the walls of injustice in the private rented sector and building a future where tenants are protected, respected and empowered.

“This is a historic moment for renters across the country and we’re proud to deliver it.”

This is the change millions were promised and never received under the Conservatives. Labour is delivering it – a fair deal for renters and a foundation for a better Britain.

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Abena Oppong-Asare MP Welcomes Commitment to Keep Plumstead Police Station Front Counter Open

Local MP for Erith and Thamesmead, Abena Oppong-Asare, has welcomed the news that Plumstead Police Station’s front counter will remain open, following strong community opposition to its proposed closure.

Since the proposals were announced over the summer, Abena has been engaging directly with local residents who expressed deep concerns about the plans.

The local MP made strong representations to the Metropolitan Police and the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, conveying residents’ concerns and stressing the importance of retaining a visible, accessible point of contact for policing in Plumstead.

Yesterday [15 October], the Metropolitan Police confirmed that 27 front counters across London will now remain open following public consultation, including right here in Plumstead.

Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:

“Residents made clear how important it is to keep Plumstead Police Station open and accessible.

“It was important for me to make representations to the Met Police and the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime and I’m delighted that they have listened and confirmed the front counter in Plumstead will stay open.

“This is a positive outcome for local residents and a real example of the community’s voice being heard.”

The updated plan means seven more front counters will stay open than originally proposed, as part of the Met’s efforts to make tough choices to close a £260 million funding gap while maintaining public access to policing services.

More information is available via the Metropolitan Police Newsroom: https://news.met.police.uk/news/met-police-progress-in-closing-ps260m-funding-gap-502211

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Bexley Families to Benefit from £150,259 Labour Government Investment

MP for Erith and Thamesmead, has today celebrated the great win announced to bring family and community services back to Bexley.

Having been elected on a manifesto to transform life chances by improving children’s start in life, Abena Oppong-Asare MP has pressed the Labour government to ‘rebuild’ Sure Start style services in Bexley – an area lacking in any provision of this type following cuts to services following the election of the Conservatives in 2010. That left thousands of parents cut off from vital community support networks and specialist services – left to navigate the challenges of parenthood alone – as well as a devastating impact on children’s life chances, with early development, wellbeing and future attainment all in jeopardy.

Yesterday (14 October), the Labour government announced grants provided to local authorities to ensure every community has a Best Start Family Hub. 1,000 Best Start Family Hubs are to be rolled out across the country by April 2026 to provide wide-ranging help for families, such as parenting and early development – including £150,259 in Bexley.

Labour’s Best Start Family Hubs will act as a one stop shop for parents seeking a range of support, including on difficulty breastfeeding, housing issues or children’s early development and language, reassuring families that they have convenient access to support in their local area or can be efficiently connected to specialist local services.

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson said:

“It’s the driving mission of this government to break the link between a child’s background and what they go on to achieve – our new Best Start Family Hubs will put the first building blocks of better life chances in place for more children.

“I saw firsthand how initiatives like Sure Start helped level the playing field, transforming the lives of children by putting in place family support in the earliest years of life, and as part of our Plan for Change, we’re building on its legacy for the next generation of children.  

“Making sure hard-working parents are able to benefit from more early help is a promise made, and promise kept – delivering a lifeline of consistent support across the nation, ensuring health, social care and education work in unison to ensure all children get the best start in life.”

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:

“I’m so pleased that my commitment at the General Election to bring back family services to Bexley has been a success, helping to give local children the best start in life.

“This is the difference a Labour MP working with a Labour government can do for children and families in our area.

“This £150,259 investment to open a local Best Start family hub will be transformative – alongside government-funded childcare and new free breakfast clubs right here in our community, we are delivering on our Plan for Change.”

Bexley’s new Best Start Family Hub will complement the Labour Government’s wider efforts to make family life easier and ease pressure on parents — including expanding free childcare to 30 hours, extending school-based nursery places, and introducing free breakfast clubs in every primary school.

Earlier this year, the first phase of the breakfast club rollout included two local schools in Erith and Thamesmead — Jubilee Primary and Willow Bank Primary. Abena Oppong-Asare MP recently visited pupils taking part in these clubs and heard first-hand how valuable a good start to the day can be.

September also saw the launch of the Labour government’s digital service, www.beststartinlife.gov.uk, a new national digital hub linked NHS services to offer trusted advice and connect to support.

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Abena Raises Concerns about Plan to Close Plumstead Police Station Front Counter 

Abena Oppong-Asare MP has today written to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime to raise her concerns about the proposed closure of the front counter at Plumstead Police Station.

Plumstead Police Station plays a vital role in the local community, serving as an important hub where residents can access policing services and support to help keep the area safe.

In August, it was announced that the Metropolitan Police Service is planning to close the front counter at Plumstead Station. The rest of the Station will remain as it was to continue with its normal work. However, this change would mean that residents in Greenwich borough would need to travel to Lewisham, Bexleyheath or Bromley to report a crime in person.

After speaking with local residents over the summer, who have shared their reservations about these plans, Abena has today written to the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Kaya Comer-Schwartz, to raise her constituents’ concerns directly with those making the decisions.

She has also copied in Sir Mark Rowley, the Met Police Commissioner, and Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London.

In her letter, Abena said:

“While I appreciate the financial and operational pressures currently facing the Metropolitan Police Service, I believe it is vital that decisions of this nature fully consider their potential impact on public confidence, accessibility, and community safety.”

You can read Abena’s full letter below.

13.10.25 – Letter from Abena Oppong-Asare MP to Deputy Mayor for Policing and CrimeDownload
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