October 2022 Newsletter

Dear Friend,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my latest newsletter.

I hope you enjoy this update of 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

Current Political and Economic Crisis

For the second time this year we have a new Prime Minister. I congratulate Rishi Sunak on becoming Prime Minister and making history as the first British Asian to hold the position. It is an important milestone which I welcome.

However, while we have a new Prime Minister, we must not forget the political and economic crisis of the last month.

The decisions recently made resulted in unprecedented turmoil leaving many in the country feeling angry and worried about the future of our economy and the state of our politics. The Mini-Budget deeply undermined Britain’s standing on the world stage, damaging our credibility as a place to invest and the finances of families across the county.

I believe we need a fresh start.

As part of my frontbench role, I have been setting out Labour’s plan that would tackle rising prices and support people through the coming months. The Opposition has a plan to build a stronger economy and stop bills going up this winter by taxing the record profits of oil and gas producers.

This plan is based on our belief that economic growth doesn’t trickle down from the top, it comes from the talent and efforts of working people and thousands of businesses.

Abena in Parliament

Campaign to stop Southeastern Cuts

I believe rail timetables need to be reliable, well organised and best serve the commuters, constituents and public who use them.

As you may be aware, on 28th September, Southeastern released their December timetable changes. These recently proposed changes have come with a lack of consultation, cooperation and engagement. It is extremely disappointing to see these announcements made in this way. 

One year ago this month, the Government took over Southeastern in order to “protect taxpayers’ interests”. I have written to the Transport Minister responsible, and am following up with his new successor, to confirm our upcoming meeting and express my anger on the changes.

You can see my recent letter here:

In response to my original letter, the Department for Transport confirmed it had agreed to continue to allow train operators to implement demand-led timetables without consulting formally during this period.

I acknowledge that the pandemic has placed major challenges on train operators and timetables, however, I am still very concerned about the lack of consultation given to this new timetable that provides major alterations to the current system.

I am therefore supporting residents and commuters who are calling for Southeastern to reverse the proposed cuts in services.

You can see my campaign webpage here and find out how the timetable impacts you and how you can campaign against the cuts.                                                                                                                                         

Abena at train station in Erith and Thamesmead

Black History Month

As many constituents will know, this month was Black History Month. I have said it time and again, but Black history is British history. We should be talking about Black history week in, week out, rather than just once a year.

This year’s theme is ‘Time for Change: Action Not Words’, which focuses on how we must honour the past, while taking action for the future. It is a time to celebrate the continued achievements and contributions of Black people to our society, while calling for continued action to tackle racism and ensure Black history is celebrated year-round.

So, in keeping with this year’s theme, I thought I would highlight a group that tirelessly works to tackle racism and update you on what I am doing to push for change within my role as your MP.

Sistah Space is an organisation I am proud to support and whose work I commend. They raise the issue of the lack of specialist training for police and other agencies supporting Black women who are victims of domestic abuse. In March of this year, I was pleased to be able to lead a debate on this issue, after a petition to the House of Commons had been signed by people up and down the country, championed by Sistah Space. The petition considered Valerie’s Law, a proposed law that would make specialist training mandatory for all police and other government agencies that support Black women and girls affected by domestic abuse.

Valerie’s Law is named in memory of Valerie Forde, who was murdered by her former partner in 2014 alongside their 22-month old daughter. She had previously asked the police for help after her ex-partner had threatened to burn down her house with her in it, but it was recorded only as a threat to her property. This story is shocking but very sadly not uncommon. I have consistently urged the government to adopt Valerie’s Law and this is a cause I will continue to champion as we are faced with a new Conservative government.

I know that this isn’t the only example of positive action being taken, nor is it the only way to push for change. I am consistently inspired by constituents taking action at every level to tackle racism and discrimination, as well as celebrating the achievements of Black members of our community. This should be a commitment we uphold throughout the year, and not just in the month of October. It is a commitment I will continue to honour here in Parliament.

 

The Cost of Living

Inflation is soaring, hitting hardworking people across Erith and Thamesmead. Food, fuel, and household bills are up, but wages and benefits are not keeping apace.

People are worried about how they will pay their bills, especially with the astronomical prices energy companies are expected to charge.

I know people are scared about getting through the winter. While there’s lots of advice out there, it’s not always in one place.

I’ve decided to put together a cost of living booklet that will be able to assist constituents in these difficult times. I have gathered information about many of the agencies, organisations and charities that are out there and can provide help, information and support for managing your bills.

The booklet is available on my website here and I will be providing the information directly to constituents who have recently been contacting me about their need for additional support. 

Visit the website here or download the full booklet here.

Casework Update

I continue to deal with a high amount of casework from constituents who are facing a number of important and difficult problems. Issues include housing insecurity and disrepair, Home Office delays, challenges caused by the rising cost of living and anti-social behaviour.

My team of dedicated Caseworkers and I will continue to assist constituents on these issues and my office can be contacted using the following channels:

Email: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Telephone: 01322 342991

                                                                                                                                           

Happy Diwali

This was also the month in which we celebrate the festival of Diwali.

Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil, lightness over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. I hope all those in our community and across the county had a peaceful and very happy time.

I congratulate the Royal Borough of Greenwich Nepalese Society (RGNS), who organised a special event on the eve of Diwali to celebrate. I would like to thank them for their work in the community and for organising the event after years of being stuck inside during the pandemic.  It is amazing, once again, that so many have been able to gather in person to celebrate.

 

Christmas Card Competition

I am once again pleased to announce that I’m holding a competition to design my Christmas Card. I am inviting students from schools across Erith and Thamesmead to take part. 

The theme for this year is: ‘Love Erith and Thamesmead’. I would like pupils to draw or paint a design that shows what they love about places in our constituency. This might include the parks or open spaces, local communities, shops, landmarks or even family and friends. 

Entries must be accompanied by a few sentences explaining what the landmark means to the young artist and why they chose to draw it. The artwork will be assessed by a panel of judges, and the winning design will be used as my Christmas Card and sent to more than 1,000 local people and groups.  

We had a great turnout last year for this competition and I am looking forward to seeing all the unique designs that students come up with.

If you would like to know more information about the competition, email me at abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk.

 

Sign up to my Coffee Morning

If you are interested in coming along to a future Coffee Morning, I’ve just launched my webpage where you, your family and friends can sign up to register your interest in attending a meeting.

Sign up:  https://www.abenaoppongasare.com/upcoming-events/coffeemorning/

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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July 2022 Newsletter

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June 2022 Newsletter

 

Dear Friend,

Today, I’m sending you an update of some of the work I have doing in in Erith and Thamesmead and in Parliament over the last month.

As ever, if you want to get in touch please email me at abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Abena

 

Cost of living crisis  

Unfortunately, we continue to be in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. The country is facing the worst squeeze on living standards in a generation.

This month, I have been hearing from families in Erith and Thamesmead who are struggling to afford the basics and are worried about rising inflation and energy prices.

I think it makes no sense to increase taxes on working people at this time, when we are in the middle of this crisis. I have continued to advocate for Labour’s plan for a stronger and more secure economy.

 

Treasury Questions

At Treasury Questions on the 28th June, I asked the Chancellor if he would back Labour’s plan to scrap business rates and replace them with a fairer system to help struggling businesses across the UK.

In Parliament, I asked him and his government if they would reverse his tax on jobs and if he would scrap the National Insurance hike. Instead, I suggested to the Chancellor that he could use public procurement and other tools to buy, make and sell more in Britain.

Whereas last month, the Government eventually agreed with Labour on the need for a windfall tax, the Government this month has decided not to take up our proposals and, in my view, will harm our businesses now and in the future.

I will not stop challenging the government and I will always advocate for policies which help families, businesses and communities in Erith and Thamesmead and across the country.

You can read my speech here or watch it here.

 

Windrush Lessons Learned Review

More than five years have passed since the first stories from Windrush generation finally came to light and while the media, some politicians and the Government have moved on, many victims have been unable to.

In my intervention in this important debate, I echoed the findings in Wendy William’s report that the process has been too slow and they are putting a broken system ahead of those who are dying without redress.

I believe the Government need to take this issue seriously and implement Wendy Williams’ recommendations.

You can read my speech here or watch it here.

 

Armed Forces Day

It was a privilege this month to pay tribute to the men and women who make up the British Armed Forces community. From the troops currently serving, to service families, veterans and cadets.

At Labour’s Armed Forces Day reception in Parliament, I shared with colleagues our deep admiration for the Armed Forces and our commitment to supporting them as they provide the ultimate public service.

It was also lovely to once again be asked to be part of the Mayoral Party at the Bexley’s Civic Parade and Church Service at Christ Church, Bexleyheath. It is always a great opportunity to bring local groups and residents together. Huge thanks to staff and volunteers who helped make it run smoothly.

 

Next Stop Thamesmead

The campaign to bring the DLR to Thamesmead continues, this month I met with the Deputy Mayor for Transport, Peabody and leaders from Greenwich and Newham Council for a tour of the key sites in Thamesmead and the proposed location for the DLR station.

It was great to have stakeholders come together to discuss the next steps. I also raised the campaign in a recent Transport debate asking the government to commit to the project and back it with proper funding.

The residents of Erith and Thamesmead deserve the benefits of transport connectivity that many others across London already enjoy. For too long, Thamesmead has been left off the transport map.

 

Celebrating the Jubilee

With everything from jamborees, storytelling, markets and street parties, there was no shortage of fun in Erith and Thamesmead for the Jubilee weekend. I loved seeing communities across the constituency come together and celebrate such a momentous occasion.

Thursday 2nd June marked the lighting of the Queen’s Beacon and Lesnes Abbey Woods and Cygnet Square were among thousands of beacons lit across the county to celebrate Her Majesty’s Jubilee.

Thank you to the thousands of volunteers across Erith and Thamesmead that made the Jubilee weekend such as success.

 

Parliamentary Tug of War in support of Macmillan Cancer

Earlier this month I took part in the Parliamentary Tug of War event in support of the brilliant charity Macmillan Cancer Support. Macmillan offers brilliant care and support when it is needed most and I’m glad to support them in all they do.

I was very pleased with the turnout of support and also happy to say I was part of the winning House of Commons team against the House of Lords.

If you want to check out the work of Macmillan and donate if you can via https://www.macmillan.org.uk

 

UK Parliamentary Coronavirus Memorial Quilt 

I was really proud to have played a part on behalf of the Erith and Thamesmead Community in the Parliamentary Covid Memorial Quilt project.

Huge thanks to my constituent Anna Hall for doing the Constituency square. It’s in memory of our lost loved ones with thanks to our key workers.

 

Visits across Erith and Thamesmead

Edible Oils

Edible Oils Limited (EOL) recently hosted me at the site in Erith where I officially opened the newly renovated bottling facility following an investment programme worth almost £24m. I took a tour of the both the Erith and Belvedere facilities ahead of a ceremony to mark the completion of works.

It was quite the achievement to have successfully completed this venture during the pandemic. As one of the largest employers in the constituency, the expansion demonstrates their commitment to the area and it is great to see more high-quality local jobs and opportunities for residents.

 

Beyond Joinery

It was fantastic to visit Beyond Joinery in Thamesmead who have committed to helping the people of Ukraine by providing humanitarian aid and medical supplies, along with the assistance of a network of volunteers.

So far they have raised £16,664 but have a target of raising £50,000. They are using their business premises as a drop off centre for the donations of goods, which they sort, pack, label and transport regularly to Ukraine (having completed over 10 deliveries to date).

Please donate if you can: https://gofund.me/6a15e047

 

Home Instead

Home Instead in Erith provide vital care to ageing residents to enable them to live happily, comfortably & independently at home. The office opened in the latter part of 2019, and most of their journey was heavily impacted by the Covid. However, they came through it and are now supporting clients across Erith and Thamesmead.

I met with them to discuss their experience through the pandemic, how they are being affected by the recruitment crisis & how increasing costs, from living to fuel, are putting people off the care profession.

I visited Erith Exchange for their latest exhibition ‘Crossing Boundaries’, which included a showcase of a project ‘Mapping the Histories of London’s Travellers’, alongside work by Romany artist Daniel Turner, and an installation by Eva Lis.

 

Other Parliamentary Business

Over the last few weeks, I have also had the opportunity to attend parliamentary receptions and speak to a number of charities, stakeholders, as well as chatting to residents and businesses from my constituency.

  • I was delighted this month to have hosted the Labour Party’s Business Reception: Celebrating Ethnic Minority Leaders in Business.
  • I also had the opportunity this month to speak at a reception for a delegation of parliamentarians from the Ghanaian Parliament.
  • On 14th June, it was an honour to address UNISON conference delegates alongside Angela Rayner, Linda Hobson and Christina McAnea.
  • I spoke at the Funeral Plan industry debate about the collapse of Safe Hands Plans who went into Administration in March 2022. Customers of a failed UK funeral services provider will get no more than a fifth of their money back. I talked about the Government putting stronger legislation in place.
  • On 28th June I spoke at a debate on the Rights of Children in Police Custody and that there needs to be an urgent review into how force is used, particularly when it is applied to children.

 

 

My Summer School is back for 2022

I’m delighted to announce that following last year’s success, my Campaigning Summer School is back for 2022!It is open to 16-18 year olds, with preference given to those who live or go to school or college in Erith and Thamesmead.

It will be held between the 25-27 July and will give young people the skills to campaign for change in our community and beyond.

If you are interested, or you know someone who might be, please visit www.abenaoppongasare.com/summer-school-2022/ for more information and to sign up now.

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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May 2022 Newsletter

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April 2022 Newsletter

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Monthly Newsletter – May 2020

Throughout May I’ve been active in Parliament and the constituency helping represent issues that matter to you. I’ve received hundreds of emails campaigning for better Covid-19 support measures, support for businesses, issues around schools re-opening, safety measures at work and much more.

I am looking forward to getting back into the constituency but during lockdown I’ve still been keeping up to date with local issues virtually. I have met with teachers and unions to dicuss how we can safely re-open schools and it is clear parents and staff are worried about the current measures in place. If you’d like to make your voice heard on this issue you can complete the survey here. I will be calling for better support for vulnerable children and standing alongside teachers calling for risk assessments and clearer guidance. I also had the chance to meet with some great local voluntary groups including, Our Heritage UK and Greenwich Association of Disabled People.

We’ve had some major local successes this month! Thamesmead Now started their new weekly TV broadcast on Youtube which you can check out here. My office have also had some major successes in helping people return to the UK  from abroad. We have now helped everyone stranded in Australia, Bahamas, Canary Islands, Cyprus, France, India, New Zealand, Sierra Leone and Tunisia return home.

Despite Parliament operating virtually throughout May, I’ve had the chance to raise a variety of issues effecting people in Erith and Thamesmead. I represented Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple by calling for a Sikh ethnic tick box on the Census 2021. I received over 40 requests from constituents to speak on the Agriculture Bill. In this speech I asked the Government to protect British farmers, animal welfare and the environment. I also spoke on the Fire Safety Bill and asked the Government to protect all victims of Domestic Abuse including those with NRPF in the Domestic Abuse Bill debate.

Belvedere Incinerator

Sadiq Khan calls for judicial review into second Belvedere incinerator
Several constituents raised concerns regarding the construction of a second incinerator in Belvedere. This would be harmful to the environment and public health which is why I joined residents in calling for a review of this project. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has asked for a judicial review to take place.

 

Abena speaking in Parliament

I raised concerns about rising care fees following Covid-19
After speaking with Inclusion London and Greenwich Association of Disabled People I raised concerns with Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government about fears that care home fees are likely to rise. This would have a huge impact on many constituents and I will continue to hold the Government to account over any rise in fees.

 

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