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March 2026 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for March 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

£20 million in Pride in Place funding for Erith and Thamesmead announced

I’m delighted to confirm that up to £20 million of Government funding is to be invested in Thamesmead Birchmere Park over the next ten years, putting local people in the driving seat to shape the future of the community.

The Pride in Place programme, launched by the Labour Government last year, has been rolled out to more most in need neighbourhoods across the UK, giving local people a say in projects that will make a real difference to their community. I attended a Pride in Place reception with Greenwich Council Leader, Anthony Okereke to announce the funding.

You can view a clip of me speaking on this news on my social media here and find out more about the announcement on my website here.

Vital funding announced for Erith Health Centre

Erith Health Centre is receiving crucial investment to transform its services as part of the Government’s plans for the Neighbourhood Health Service. This investment will help Erith Health Centre to provide end-to-end care, improving access to GPs, simplifying the provision of healthcare and enabling patients to be treated closer to their home. You can find out more on this exciting news for Erith residents on my website here.

Thamesmead Selected for a New Town by the Government

Following last year’s consultation, it was confirmed that Thamesmead will be one of seven proposed new towns as part of the government’s most ambitious housebuilding programme in over fifty years.

The plans could see up to 15,000 new homes delivered in Thamesmead, helping to boost economic growth and transport links locally as well as address London’s housing shortage.  I welcomed the news on my social media here.

SEND Roundtable with schools and Minister for School Standards

It was fantastic to host a discussion with school leaders from Erith and Thamesmead and the Minister for School Standards, Georgia Gould MP. The roundtable focused on how the government’s proposed reforms can improve outcomes for children with SEND, drawing on the crucial frontline experience of education leaders in the constituency. You can find out more about these SEND reforms, the consultation and this local roundtable on my website here.

Meeting with Get Together Monday Community Group

It was great to have the chance to meet with the Get Together Monday group in Shooters Hill to discuss local and national issues, whilst learning more about the group’s work to support the community.

International Women’s Day Event at Woolwich Polytechnic Girl’s School

Pleasure to attend the Careers Day Carousel at Woolwich to celebrate International Women’s Day. The students were eager to know more about their future career choices, and I look forward to seeing them as the leaders of tomorrow!

Summer School Launch

This month, I announced the return of my Campaign Summer School for its fifth iteration. The campaign offers first-hand insight into the exciting world of political campaigning. If you are aged between 16-18 in my constituency (or know someone that is), you can register your interest by following this link.   

‘This is Endometriosis’ Screening in Parliament

Delighted to screen the BAFTA-winning short film ‘This is Endometriosis’ in Parliament on 24th March. The evening marked an important moment during Endometriosis Action Month where we were joined by Georgie Wileman, the filmmaker. It was a powerful testimony that shone a light on this vital issue, which I am fighting hard to see addressed in Parliament. It follows on from the adjournment debate that I held in Parliament, which you can watch here.

Greenwich Wildlife Network Meeting in Parliament

Pleasure to meet with constituents from the Greenwich Wildlife Network (GWN) & members of Naturewatch in Parliament. We spoke about GWN’s great work protecting local wildlife & green spaces, and the need to do more to tackle horrific incidents of ASB against animals.

Ghana Independence Day Celebrations

Honoured to mark the 69th anniversary of Ghanian Independence by speaking at an event in Parliament alongside the vibrant British Ghanaian community. I was equally honoured to be recognised of one of the 100 most influential Ghanaians in the UK, as well as attending an event at the Ghanaian High Commission to celebrate the day.


My work in Parliament

It has been a busy month for me in Parliament. As well as the adjournment debate for Endometriosis, I put forward a Ten-Minute Rule Bill for Menstrual and Gynaecological Health to increase public awareness of menstrual health issues including racial discrimination in the field.

Furthermore, on International Women’s Day, I highlighted the work of a number of inspiring women from Erith and Thamesmead during the IWD debate in the chamber.  Lastly, I spoke on Radio 5 Live about Baroness Amos’ crucial investigation into maternal health. You can listen to my interview here.

Furthermore:

  • COVID Day of Reflection – Important to remember those we lost, and the sacrifices made by so many on March 8th.
  • Young Carer’s Action Day – I recognised the amazing work in Erith & Thamesmead and beyond make to care for loved ones on 11th March.
  • World Book Day – enjoyed celebrating World Book Day on 5th March.
  • Meeting with Leader of Bexley Labour Group – great to catch up with Leader of Bexley Labour Stefano Borello to discuss the upcoming local elections.
  • Women’s Lobby Reception in Parliament – wonderful to attend this reception in Parliament to mark International Women’s Day.
  • Holi – lovely to celebrate the Hindu festival of colours on 4th March.
  • Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge – I welcomed an inspiring group of talented young communicators to Parliament on March 2nd.

Stay updated on social media

For regular updates on my activities, follow me on X (@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.abenaopponga

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Campaign victory as Best Start Family Hub to open in Erith as part of family support revolution

Families in Erith and Thamesmead will be able to save money on services including free stay and play sessions for babies and young children, as Abena Oppong-Asare MP’s campaign secured the return of Sure Start-style services to their constituency, with a Best Start Family Hubs to open and help local families with the cost of living. 

Parents will be able to access help with infant feeding, parenting advice and early support for children with SEND, in one place, reducing the need to pay for private classes or specialist support.

Having been elected on a manifesto to transform life chances by improving children’s start in life, Abena Oppong-Asare called on the Labour government to ‘rebuild’ Sure Start style services in Erith and Thamesmead – an area lacking in any government-funded provision 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.

The new Best Start Family Hub forms part of Labour’s wider efforts to make family life easier for those with younger children, including publishing new evidence-backed guidance on screen time this week in response to parents’ calls for support.

Bexley was one of 65 areas across the country left without government-funded family support.

Now, thanks to the work of local Labour MP, West Street Best Start Family Hub becomes one of over 200 new Best Start Family Hubs now opening to families, as Labour delivers on its pledge to ensure there is a hub in every council area. These form the first wave of up to 1,000 hubs across all local authorities by 2028.

New guidance sets out Labour’s plans to bring services families rely on together under one roof, making it easier to get help at the right time – reimagining Sure Start for the modern age through a more joined-up system of support.

Labour is also making a new commitment to deliver up to 2,000 satellite locations by 2028 – based in health centres, leisure centres, libraries and churches – so families experience seamless support in the places they already go.

The programme builds on the legacy of Sure Start, while updating family services for the modern world – combining face-to-face and digital support, strong partnerships with early years settings, and better use of existing community partners and spaces.

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

“I’m so pleased that my campaign to bring back family services to Erith and Thamesmead 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 Best Start Family Hub will be transformative – alongside free breakfast clubs and government-funded childcare, we are showing this government is on the side of families in Erith and Thamesmead.”

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:

“Children growing up in our country deserve the best start in life, but for too long, too many families have been navigating the pressures of parenthood without the support they need.

“Best Start Family Hubs will revitalise family services – bringing together health, parenting support and practical advice in one place, free and close to home, so that parents can get the help they need, when they need it. 

“I’ve seen the difference Sure Start made in my community, and why it’s so important that we bring that support back today, reimagined for a new generation of families.”

“Whether it’s advice on child development, help with additional needs, or simply a friendly face in the community, this government is putting the support so many families used to rely on, back into each and every community.”

The new Best Start Family Hubs are backed by £900m of investment over the next three years – including half a billion to deliver hubs nationwide, £200 million for the Healthy Babies services, and a further £200 million to fund SEND practitioners in every hub.

Erith and Thamesmead’s Best Start Family Hub will have dedicated outreach workers to reach families, alongside a practitioner to help identify additional needs early – particularly those who might otherwise fall through the cracks – helping them access the right support sooner without being passed between services. 

Alongside this, West Street Best Start Family Hub will deliver Healthy Babies support – bringing together health and early support such as midwifery, health visiting, infant feeding and perinatal mental health support so local families get a more joined-up experience from day one.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting said:

“I want babies born this year to grow up as the healthiest generation than any before it – and that means building good habits early.

“We know that the earliest years of a child’s life shape everything that follows. But for too long, families have had to navigate a maze of services at the very moment they need simple, straightforward help. 

“We’re making it easier for families to get the right support in one place – from pregnancy through to age two.

“That means spotting problems earlier, stepping in sooner, and moving care closer to the communities that need it most.”

With significant investment over the next three years, Erith and Thamesmead’s Best Start Family Hub will play a key role in improving the school readiness of local children, supporting early development and helping parents manage the cost of living. 

Hubs will also be able to host school-based nurseries, bringing childcare together with family support, health visiting and early SEND identification under one roof – giving families more joined-up support.

It comes as Labour prioritises support to make life easier for families across Erith and Thamesmead – from help with managing screen-time to major cost of living interventions, including saving eligible parents an average of £8,000 a year through government-funded childcare, up to £450 a year through Best Start free breakfast clubs, up to £500 a year through the expansion of free school meals, and around £300 a year through Best Start Holiday Activities and Food programmes, alongside the expansion of Best Start school-based nurseries.

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On the anniversary of Valerie Forde’s death, we must deliver the change Black women need

Abena Oppong-Asare MP writing in Politics Home, 31 March 2026

Twelve years ago, Valerie Forde and her 22-month-old daughter, RJ, were murdered. Six weeks earlier, Valerie had reported a death threat to the police.

When three quarters of Black women who experience domestic abuse want to report it but feel unable to, we should ask a difficult question: what kind of system have we built, if silence feels safer than seeking help?

Valerie did everything we ask of victims. She recognised the danger and sought help. She was failed by the services meant to protect her. Nothing about Valerie and RJ’s deaths was inevitable. If her warnings had been taken seriously, both would still be alive today.

Research by Sistah Space, based on the experiences of more than 2,200 women across England and Wales, shows how serious this problem is. Nearly all of the women surveyed said they did not have confidence that reporting abuse would lead to fair or supportive treatment. Many said they felt misunderstood or dismissed when they did reach out. That matters because what happens when a woman asks for help can determine whether she is protected or put at greater risk.

Violence against women and girls is a national emergency. The government has set out an ambitious approach, with a focus on prevention, accountability and rebuilding trust. That direction is right. But it must be felt in practice across all demographics.

For too many Black women, coming forward is not just difficult, it is risky. There is fear of not being believed, of being stereotyped as aggressive, or of losing their children. Some fear that speaking out will make things worse. When those fears are present, it is not surprising that many women stay silent.

Sistah Space’s report gives clear examples of where things go wrong. Women describe coercive control not being recognised, or harm being minimised because injuries are not obvious. Some speak about bruising on darker skin not being properly recorded. These are basic issues, but they can make the difference between someone being protected or not.

Many professionals work extremely hard to support survivors. But without the right training, risk can be missed.

Culturally competent care is part of getting this right. It means understanding how different experiences shape the way abuse is reported, recognised and responded to. It means building trust, not losing it.

The government has committed to a survivor-centred approach to tackling violence against women and girls. The task now is delivery. For too many Black women, the system still does not feel like it works for them. Valerie’s Law is a practical way to change that. It would make specialist training mandatory for police, social workers and healthcare professionals, so that responses are informed by the lived experience of Black women.

This builds on work already underway, and strengthens it. It would also create a consistent standard, so that support does not depend on where someone lives or who they speak to.

Black women are not asking for special treatment – they are asking for equal treatment. They are asking to be believed and to be treated properly when they ask for help.

If we are serious about ending violence against women and girls, the system has to work for those who currently trust it least. On the 12th anniversary of Valerie and Jahzara’s murders, the case for change is clear. We know what needs to happen. The question is whether we are prepared to act on it.

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Abena Welcomes Vital Investment in Erith Health Centre

Erith and Thamesmead’s MP Abena Oppong-Asare has welcomed today’s announcement, which means an upgrade to Erith Health Centre. The investment means Erith is at the forefront of the government’s drive to shift healthcare from hospitals to communities.

At the 2025 Budget, the Labour government committed to build and upgrade hundreds of new Neighbourhood Health Centres to bring health services closer to communities. This means patients will be treated closer to their home through a new neighbourhood health service. 

The Neighbourhood Health Service will bring teams together to dramatically improve access to the NHS, free up overstrained hospitals and deliver the best, most cutting-edge and personalised care. 

The centres will be part of a new Neighbourhood Health Service that will provide end-to-end care and tailored support – improving access to GPs, helping to prevent complications and avoid the frustration of being passed around the system. 

With Labour inheriting record long NHS waiting lists nationally, Oppong-Asare has welcomed the new approach and the decision to invest in Erith.

The MP for Erith and Thamesmead has been working in partnership with local Labour councillors, Cllr Nicola Taylor and Cllr Chris Ball, as well as the Leader of Bexley Labour, Cllr Stefano Borella, to secure the investment Erith residents need both now and for the long term.

Across the country, the Labour government has already made significant progress to get the NHS back on its feet. Waiting lists are falling, down by 374,000 since Labour came to power, and the lowest for around three years.

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

“Upgrading Erith Health Centre and singling it out to be in the first wave of Neighbourhood Health Centres will deliver real improvements for local patients and is a huge vote of confidence in local staff. 

“When the government announced the NHS Neighbourhood Rebuild fund I was determined our community in Erith and Thamesmead should be at the front of the queue. The Labour government has made great strides in cutting NHS waiting lists across the country, to get patients seen faster but we have to modernise the way our NHS delivers care if we are to get the NHS back on its feet. 

“Too many people are passed from GP to hospital for checks and treatments which can be delivered closer to home. This investment will help create the space to deliver more services in Erith Health Centre. But the fact staff in Erith have been recognised as ready and willing to make the shift to a neighbourhood model of care is just as significant.

“I’m really proud that NHS staff in Erith have been recognised as pioneers in this way.”

Councillor Stefano Borella, Leader of Bexley Labour Group, said:

“For too long, our NHS has been under immense pressure – struggling to support both local residents in need and the dedicated staff working tirelessly under incredibly challenging conditions. Sadly, this is something we have witnessed first-hand here in Bexley.

“I’m proud that this Labour Government – backed by our local Labour MP, Abena Oppong-Asare – is now delivering the investment needed to ensure people in Erith and Bexley can access care closer to home.

“I look forward to seeing Erith Health Centre flourish under these plans and through working with the Erith ward Councillors Chris Ball and Nicola Taylor this will lead to the real, lasting difference this investment will make for our community.”

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Abena hosts Minister for School Standards and local headteachers to hear views on Labour’s plans for SEND reform

This Tuesday, Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, hosted a roundtable with the Minister for School Standards, Georgia Gould MP, alongside local headteachers and education leaders to discuss the Labour Government’s plans to reform support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The discussion brought together over 20 representatives from mainstream and special schools, trusts and colleges across the constituency, alongside Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at the Royal Borough of Greenwich and Dr Sam Parrett CBE DL, Group Principal and CEO of Elevare Civic Education Group. The event was held at London South East Colleges’ Greenwich Campus in Plumstead.

The roundtable focused on how the government’s proposed reforms can improve outcomes for children with SEND, drawing on the frontline experience of local education leaders. Attendees shared insights into the challenges facing schools, including workforce pressures, funding, and ensuring effective support for children both with and without Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

Participants emphasised the importance of stronger collaboration between mainstream and specialist settings, as well as improving pathways into post-16 education and training.

The discussion forms part of ongoing engagement by the local MP, Abena Oppong-Asare, and Government to ensure local voices help shape the government’s approach to SEND reform.

The Labour Government’s plans aim to place inclusion at the heart of the education system and ensure every child can access the support they need. Proposed reforms include introducing tailored support plans for every child who needs additional help, and expanding teacher training to better support children with SEND, backed by £200 million investment.

The reforms come as the current SEND system continues to struggle to meet demand. Children with SEND are twice as likely to be persistently absent from school, while only 46% of EHCPs were completed within the 20-week target in 2025.

Closing the discussion, Local MP Abena Oppong-Asare highlighted her plans to feed into the ongoing SEND consultation using feedback gathered from the local education leaders present, as well as her wider engagement with parents, carers, SEND providers, and local authorities.

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

“I know from speaking to parents, carers and schools across my constituency that support for children with SEND is a top priority. That’s why I’m delighted that this Labour government is tackling the SEND crisis head on.

“It was a pleasure to host the Schools Minister as we welcomed over 20 representatives from mainstream and special schools, trusts and colleges from across Erith and Thamesmead, to come together to share their experiences and help shape a more inclusive education system.

“These reforms must ensure that children with SEND get the right support earlier, when and where they need it, without parents having to fight to get the better education – and the results – their kids deserve.

“I’m committed to working with local education providers and local parents to feed into this consultation to ensure we build a system that works for all.”

School Standards Minister Georgia Gould MP said:

“We’ve promised to put parents, young people, teachers and practitioners at the heart of building a new SEND system.

“That’s why sessions like this are so important and a huge thank you to Abena and London South East Colleges for facilitating. It was great to learn from those around the table about best practice in supporting children with SEND in early years, schools and colleges.

“This is once in a generation opportunity to transform the SEND system so please do share your thoughts through our consultation so we can collectively build a system that enables every child with SEND to achieve and thrive.”

Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Royal Borough of Greenwich said:

“I’m really grateful to Abena Oppong-Asare MP for bringing us together for this week’s SEND roundtable discussion with Minister for School Standards, Georgia Gould MP.

“It was a genuinely valuable conversation with education partners from across Erith and Thamesmead.”

Dr Sam Parrett CBE DL, Group Principal and CEO of Elevare Civic Education Group (incorporating London South East Colleges and London South East Academies Trust) said:

“We were delighted to host this event, which provided a valuable opportunity to bring frontline experience directly into the SEND reform conversation. Those of us working across schools and colleges offer vital insight into how we can build a more inclusive system for all learners.

“Sharing this expertise with policymakers is essential to ensuring children and young people remain at the heart of decision-making – which is very much our shared aim and responsibility.

“We are grateful to the Schools Minister and to our local MP, Abena Oppong-Asare, for hosting this week’s event, and to all the attendees for their meaningful contributions. We look forward to continuing this work together, as strong local and national collaboration will be key to delivering sustainable improvements.”

Photos from Event:

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Abena Welcomes Thamesmead Selected for New Generation of New Towns

Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead, has welcomed the announcement that Thamesmead has been identified as one of seven proposed new towns as part of the government’s most ambitious housebuilding programme in over fifty years.

The plans could see up to 15,000 new homes delivered in Thamesmead, helping to address London’s housing shortage while unlocking underused riverside land. The development will be supported by the planned extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), improving connectivity and access to jobs and opportunities across South East London and the capital.

Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:

“I warmly welcome Thamesmead being selected for this ambitious programme to deliver the homes and infrastructure our community needs.

“This is a major opportunity to transform the area, with new homes, jobs and the long-awaited DLR extension – something I have campaigned for since becoming an MP – finally bringing better connections for local residents.

“It is particularly encouraging to see a strong commitment to genuinely affordable homes, including homes for social rent, so local families can benefit.

“I will continue working with ministers, the local council, local partners and residents to ensure this development delivers for our community, both now and in the future.”

Cllr Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council said:

”We know how much potential there is waiting to be unlocked in Thamesmead, and we’re thrilled the government also recognised as a New Town delivering up to 15,000 new homes and 6000 jobs.”

“Earlier this year, the council welcomed fresh investment for our long-championed campaign to extend the Docklands Light Railway to Thamesmead. The New Town regeneration and potential rail link would create new jobs, new housing and boost business to an area that benefits from better transport links. 

“Thamesmead represents one of the largest regeneration areas in London and we will continue to work together with our partners the Greater London Authority, Transport for London, Peabody and Lendlease, to realise its full potential for existing and new communities.”

Housing Secretary Steve Reed said:

“People want real change – homes they can afford, local infrastructure that works, and good jobs in thriving communities. 

“Our next generation of new towns marks a turning point in how we build for the future. 

“From the ground up, we’re planning whole communities with homes, jobs, transport links, and green spaces designed together – so we can give families the security and opportunities they deserve.” 

Abena Oppong-Asare MP has long campaigned for investment in Thamesmead, including through her “Next Stop Thamesmead” campaign calling for the DLR extension. She has consistently raised the area’s potential in Parliament and supported its inclusion as a possible New Town, including in a debate earlier this year where she welcomed Thamesmead being identified by the New Towns Taskforce. 

She has also submitted written parliamentary questions to ministers to ensure Thamesmead remains a priority, highlighting its potential to deliver new homes and drive economic growth.

The new towns programme will create well-planned communities with homes, schools, healthcare, green spaces and transport infrastructure delivered together, supporting modern, sustainable neighbourhoods. The programme forms part of the government’s wider strategy to tackle the housing crisis, boost economic growth, and build thriving communities across the country.

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£20 Million Secured for Erith and Thamesmead through Pride in Place Funding

Since being elected, I’ve been fighting hard in Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead.

Today, I’m delighted to confirm that up to £20 million of Government funding is to be invested in Thamesmead Birchmere Park, within our local constituency, over the next ten years, putting local people in the driving seat to shape the future of the community.

The Pride in Place programme, launched by the Labour Government last year, has been rolled out to more most in need neighbourhoods across the UK, giving local people a say in projects that will make a real difference to their community.

This funding is part of a programme designed to strengthen community life and support places like ours to build even stronger local connections. It’s about bringing people together across the neighbourhood, supporting local groups, organisations and initiatives, and celebrating the pride people already have in where they live.

This is the difference a Labour Government makes. No more empty promises. Real change.

Residents will have the resources to invest in our community to create new spaces for young people or breathe new life into community assets.

I will shortly be launching a survey to reach out to residents and listen to what they believe this investment should be used for.

In the meantime, if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

You can also find out more about this announcement on the Government’s website here.

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Thousands of local children lifted out of poverty as Government scraps two-child limit

Families across Greenwich and Bexley boroughs will benefit from a landmark change in the law, as the Labour Government scraps the two-child limit – a move set to lift 5,230 children in Erith and Thamesmead constituency out of poverty.

The change forms part of a historic package that will lift 450,000 children out of poverty nationally, the biggest reduction in child poverty since records began.

For years, the two-child limit has been the single biggest driver of child poverty, pushing families into hardship despite many being in work. Its removal will provide immediate support to working families and help give every child the best start in life.

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

“This is a turning point for families in Erith and Thamesmead.

“Too many children have been held back through no fault of their own – and too many parents have been doing the right thing, working hard, but still struggling to make ends meet.

“Scrapping the two-child limit will lift 5,230 children in our community out of poverty and give families the security they deserve.

“This is what Labour in government means – taking real action to break the cycle of poverty and give every child the best possible start in life.”

The change comes alongside wider action to tackle child poverty, including expanding free school meals, boosting childcare, and supporting parents into work.

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Abena Launches 2026 Campaign Summer School for Young People

This July, Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, announces she will once again be hosting her fifth Campaign Summer School, and encourages young people interested in making a difference in their community to sign up now.

Taking place from Tuesday 21st July to Thursday 23rd July 2026, the school is designed to empower and inspire young people between the ages of 16 and 18 from the local area to engage in politics and campaigning.

The Campaign Summer School offers first-hand insight into the exciting world of political campaigning – bringing together the expertise of veteran political activists, local and national journalists, and partner organisations. 

This year will be the MP’s fifth Campaign Summer School following her most successful ever last year with close to 30 local students joining.

Following her 2025 session, she was delighted to launch her Campaign Summer School Alumni Network on LinkedIn to keep the students connected and to also welcome the students for a tour of 10 Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament.

At this jam-packed 3-day event, young people will have the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference within their community and learn how to make their voice heard in our democracy.  

Watch Abena’s Launch Video

The Summer School programme is expected to include sessions from:

  • Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council
  • Christine Quigley, Vice President of Crestview Strategy
  • Yeukai Taruvinga, Chief Executive of Active Horizons
  • Google Digital Garage Team  
  • Local and National journalists

Applications are now open for those interested in signing up. The link can be found on Abena’s website here and the deadline to sign up is Friday 29 May 2026.

Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:

“I’m determined to do everything I can to empower local young people to be the change they want to see in the world.

“That’s why I’m proud to announce the return of my Campaign Summer School this July, building on the record-breaking success of last year’s programme. Our 2025 event was our biggest yet, welcoming nearly 30 young people and a fantastic lineup of inspiring speakers.

“If you’re aged 16–18 and live locally, I’d love you to apply and get involved. See you there!”

Testimonies from 2025 Campaign Summer School alumni:

One 2025 graduate said: “I am hugely grateful for the experience as I gained political insight through learning about the role of an MP. It has also allowed me to create a larger network of other determined, driven and ambitious individuals.”

Another said: “This experience deepened my understanding of local and national politics, media, and activism and reminded me that youth is not a limitation, but a leadership asset.”

And one more said: “Over [these] packed days, I gained valuable insight into politics, communication, leadership and most importantly, the power of young people.”

Photos from Past Summer Schools:

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February 2026 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for February 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

My Endometriosis and Youth Online Safety Campaigns: Hearing from you

The Government is developing and consulting on ambitious new strategies for Women’s Health and Online Safety for young people. It is vital that the voices and lived experiences of local people help shape these plans, and I am keen to hear directly from you.

Work is already underway to create a safer digital environment for young people. The Government are now consulting on proposals to restrict or ban social media use for under-16s. Whether you are a teacher, student, parent or grandparent you can share your opinion on this issue, via my survey below.

Furthermore, while I welcome the progress already being made on women’s health, there is still much more to do. The forthcoming Women’s Health Strategy must deliver meaningful and lasting improvements: particularly in the diagnosis, treatment, and support available for those living with endometriosis. This is an issue I raised in Parliament this month and one I have championed for many years as your MP. You can find a clip of my intervention on my social media here. If you or someone close to you has been affected by Endometriosis, I would be grateful if you could share your experience through the survey below.

Greenwich and Bexley Nepalese Event

It was a pleasure to host members of the Greenwich and Bexley Nepalese community in Parliament on Tuesday 24 February, alongside former Greenwich Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor Jit Gurung Ranahbat and Gaumaya Gurung Ranahbat. The event was very well attended and celebrated the significant contributions that British-Nepalese individuals and community groups make to our wider society.

Visit to Christ Church School for Children’s Mental Health Week

It was wonderful to be joined by former England rugby star Jonathan Joseph at Christ Church Primary School in Erith. It was terrific to meet pupils and see Johnathan lead an inspiring coaching session action. The event celebrated the support available to young people and marked Children’s Mental Health Week. My thanks to the school for hosting and to local sponsors, Oscar Mayer in Erith, for helping make the day such a success

Visit to Alexander McLeod School

Delighted to visit Alexander Mcleod Primary School in Abbey Wood for their Aspiration Week. It was brilliant to share my journey and what I do as MP for Erith & Thamesmead and to hear the pupils’ questions.

New Free Breakfast Club for Erith and Thamesmead Pupils

Absolutely delighted to welcome this month’s announcement of a new free breakfast club for pupils in Erith and Thamesmead.

Linton Mead Primary School will open the latest club this Easter, helping ensure children start the day with a nutritious meal while also supporting families with the cost of living. These breakfast clubs play an important role in giving pupils the best possible start to their school day.

You can find out more on my website here about this policy and read about my visit to the breakfast clubs launched in our community last year.

Visit to Costa Coffee

Really pleased to have the chance to visit the new Costa Coffee in Abbey Wood and sharpen up my Barista skills! I enjoyed speaking with the wonderful staff and hearing about the experiences and issues that matter most to them in their work within our community.

Sistah Space Roundtable

Honoured to host Sistah Space’s roundtable in Parliament on Monday 9 February. The event centred on the proposal of Valerie’s Law, that would mandate cultural competency training for police to support Black women and girls affected by domestic abuse.

I am proud to stand alongside Sistah Space in their vital work and will continue working with colleagues across Parliament and in Government to help advance their mission of halving violence against women and girls.

Safer Internet Event

This event in Parliament bought together children, parents and teachers to discuss their experiences of the online world.  It was fantastic to hear directly from young people about how online safety programmes impact their understanding of the issue, which has helped to inform my campaigning on the topic.


My work in Parliament

Alongside continuing in my busy role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Prime Minister, I have welcomed several significant policy announcements this month.

Regarding maternity care, Baroness Amos’ report highlighted shortcomings in care across the country. I fully support the action the Government is taking to address this issue. Specifically, I welcome the serious consideration this report gives to the disparity in maternity outcomes for black and ethnic minority mothers. This is something I raised in Parliament last month and was interviewed about on BBC Radio 5 Live. I look forward to following the development of this strategy, including assessing the results of the Government’s neonatal and maternity investigation.

I also commend the release of the SEND White Paper which has started the process to transform a defunct system, to one where support is available when children need it, where they need it. Furthermore, the National Cancer Plan sets out how we will improve cancer care so that 3 out of 4 people diagnosed with cancer survive for 5 years or more by 2035.

Furthermore:

  • Greenwich Regional Final of the Jack Petchey “Speak Out” Challenge – delighted to deliver a message to pupils at this exciting event – a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and showcase the voices of young people from Greenwich.
  • Investment in local Community Spaces by Mayor of London – Great news for the local community as the Exchange in Erith and Moorings Sociable Club have both been selected for the Mayor of London’s new Community Spaces network! Looking forward to seeing next steps and how the community will benefit.
  • Ash Wednesday – wishing everyone a peaceful Ash Wednesday and Lent.
  • Ramadan Mubarak – wishing a blessed Ramadan to our Muslim community.
  • Lunar New Year – sharing good health and happiness this Lunar New Year.
  • LGBT+ History Month – it’s great to mark February as a celebration of LGBT+ history.
  • Time to talk day – pleased to support the UK’s biggest mental health conversation.
  • Eating Disorders Awareness Week – raising awareness of disordered eating behaviour during this week is pivotal to rethinking how we approach mental health.
  • Constituency Surgeries – if you would like to meet me to discuss national or local issues, please feel free to get in touch.
  • Tours of Parliament – If you are a resident or organisation based in Erith and Thamesmead constituency, don’t hesitate to reach out to organise a tour at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk  

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