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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 Oppong-Asare MP Secures £640,000 Funding Boost to Tackle Homelessness in Erith and Thamesmead

Thousands of people facing homelessness will be supported by a new £84 million cash injection to councils up and down the country ahead of winter, with Erith and Thamesmead set to benefit.

Children and families in temporary accommodation in Greenwich and Bexley will be prioritised – with the funding to go towards helping families to cover the essentials like food, school travel and laundry. The new funding unlocked by the Labour government, which will support children to remain in education, has been announced on World Homeless Day (10 October).

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, has welcomed this announcement, highlighting that included in this injection will be £526,868 for Greenwich Council and £114,724 for Bexley Council.

It comes as record levels of households are in temporary accommodation across the country, including nearly 170,000 children. After 14 years of Conservative government, levels of rough sleeping have more than doubled since 2010.

This announcement comes on top of the Labour government’s almost £1 billion investment to tackle homelessness this year and includes the largest ever investment in prevention services, helping councils intervene early and stop homelessness before it happens.

The investment provides tailored services for those experiencing long-term rough sleeping – including mental health support, drug and alcohol treatment and sustainable accommodation – ensuring people get the help they need to rebuild their lives.

Labour’s Housing Secretary, Steve Reed MP, said:

“Homelessness is a moral stain on our society. Growing numbers of people have been abandoned to sleep rough on the streets and children left in squalid, overcrowded conditions.

“This government will not stand idly by and allow that to continue. We will make different choices.

That’s why we are investing £1 billion to give homeless people the security of a roof over their heads and get back on track to end homelessness for good.”

Today’s investment supports delivery of the Labour government’s Plan for Change, in addition to:

  • £950 million to increase the supply of good temporary accommodation
  • Abolishing ‘no fault’ evictions through the landmark Renters’ Rights Bill
  • £39 billion investment to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable housing in a generation.

Labour’s Homelessness Minister, Alison McGovern MP, said:

“You can’t have a decent life without a decent home. Whether it’s rough sleeping or sofa surfing or, at its worst, children stuck in B&Bs, homelessness in the UK has been too high for too long.

“This has to stop. Through our Plan for Change, the UK will build homes and get help to those who need it to put a roof over their head.

“We’re providing extra cash now to address a crisis made over the past decade. Both the government’s £39bn to build social and affordable homes and the Child Poverty Strategy to come will tackle the root causes of this problem, but we need action now to stop homelessness getting any worse.”

Abena Oppong-Asare, Labour Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead said:

“Labour will never turn a blind eye to homelessness.

“It ruins lives, but has tragically more than doubled since 2010, under the last Conservative Government. I know from speaking with people in our community that tackling this problem is a priority.

“I welcome this Government’s £84m boost to help prevent it and support families this winter – including vital funding for our communities in Bexley and Greenwich”

Matt Downie, Chief Executive of Crisis, said:

“This funding is very welcome, especially as winter approaches and with homelessness rising. More people are likely to face the prospect of sleeping on cold streets and need support urgently. More parents will be working out how to help their children do homework from cramped and draughty temporary accommodation.

“We know that targeted support can make a big difference and help people take their first steps out of homelessness.”

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September 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

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

Government’s Plan for Change delivering for Erith & Thamesmead

This autumn, I continue to be focused on delivering for Erith and Thamesmead and making sure the Government’s Plan for Change improves the lives of residents here in our community. Here are some of the key achievements already making a difference:

  • Health: Millions more NHS appointments – including thousands at local Trusts – to cut waiting times, keep residents healthy and build an NHS fit for the future.
  • Families: Parents now get 30 hours of funded childcare, worth up to £7,500 a year, with new nurseries and breakfast clubs also up and running. Also, from next year, half a million more pupils will receive free school meals, helping families with the cost of living and raising 100,000 children out of poverty.
  • Cost of living: We’ve raised the minimum wage for 3 million workers, reduced mortgage costs through interest rate cuts, extended the Warm Homes Discount, and ensured millions more pensioners qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment.
  • Homes: A £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme will deliver more safe, secure housing locally as part of Labour’s plan for 1.5 million new homes.
  • Other local priorities: We’re holding Thames Water to account, tackling fly-tipping, investing millions to fix potholes, and boosting local policing to crack down on anti-social behaviour.

As your MP, I assure you I will keep listening and working hard to deliver for residents.

Visit to Oscar Mayer Factory in Erith

Delighted to return to the Oscar Mayer site in Erith this month. We discussed the latest developments at the factory, including new equipment, upgraded flooring, and their ESG commitments. I toured the site and had the pleasure to speak with their welcoming staff, whose service ranged from just one month to 35 years.

Also pleased to welcome members of the Oscar Mayer team to Parliament to watch the passage of the Employment Rights Bill in the House of Commons.

Erith Made Festival

Lovely to be at the Erith Made Festival and to see fantastic energy from local people and organisations that make Erith such a special place. Thanks to the Erith Town Partnership for all their hard work bringing the community together.

Plumstead Gardens Parkfest

Great to pop into Plumstead Gardens Parkfest with Cllr Jit Ranabhat last month. The volunteers and organisers did a great job to make it such a success.  

Thamesmead Festival

Also had a lovely time at Thamesmead’s Annual Summer Festival. It was great to see so many people enjoying themselves. Big thank you to all the event organisers, local businesses and charities involved in the festival.

Nigerian Cultural Festival at Eaglesfield Park

Over the summer, I was also delighted to join the Nigerian Cultural Festival at Eaglesfield Park, part of the Royal Greenwich Festivals.

It was a vibrant and inspiring celebration of our community’s diversity and spirit, and a wonderful opportunity to meet so many residents. My thanks go to the ARC and YOU team for organising such a fantastic event.

Tackling Wildlife Crime Meeting with Greenwich Wildlife Network

Thank you to everyone who has contacted me or raised concerns online about wildlife crime in our constituency and the wider area. Sadly, incidents appear to be on the rise and it’s vital we tackle this together.

On 17th September, my team attended a meeting at Greenwich Town Hall with Council officers, the police, the Greenwich Wildlife Network, and Cabinet Members Cllr Rachel Taggart-Ryan and Cllr Sandra Bauer. Birchmere and Southmere Lakes in Thamesmead were highlighted as hotspots, and also discussed was closer engagement with Peabody’s team to strengthen surveillance and awareness.

I want to assure residents that I’m committed to working with local residents and authorities to tackle this issue. If you witness any incidents, please report it to the police as well as groups like the Greenwich Wildlife Network, with evidence if possible.

Recognition of the State of Palestine

This month, I also welcome the Prime Minister’s announcement recognising the State of Palestine. This is an important step towards a credible two-state solution – the only lasting path to peace.

I know how deeply many residents care about this issue and the devastating situation in Gaza. I’m pleased to see progress after years of calls for recognition as well as the UK being joined in this recognition by other countries such as Canada, Australia and France.

I remain committed to a future where a safe and secure Israel exists alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state, and I continue to join the Prime Minister in pressing for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a renewed path to peace.

Christmas Card Competition 2025 Launch

Excited to launch my Christmas Card Competition 2025 this September! The competition is a great chance for local young people to showcase their creativity.

The winning design will be sent to 1,000+ local people, as well as to the Prime Minister, Speaker and the King. You can find out more details on my website if you are interested.

Girls Who Talk Politics Event

Lovely to speak at a Girls Who Talk Politics event in Parliament this September. I met so many enthusiastic young women and shared my journey into politics and as an MP.

Constituency Surgeries

This month I also held advice surgeries, meeting constituents who needed support and guidance during challenging times.

If you live in Erith and Thamesmead and think I can help, please contact me at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Appointment at PPS to the Prime Minister and Emergency Alert Test

At the start of this month, I was delighted to be appointed Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Prime Minister – supporting him and the Government in delivering their priorities backed by MPs. I’ll work hard to help deliver the Plan for Change, to help those most in need and drive the change our community and country voted for last year.

It has also been a privilege to serve as a minister in the Cabinet Office since last July. Over the past year, I’ve been proud to help strengthen our resilience and security through the UK Government Resilience Plan, the National Security Strategy 2025, alongside other important work.

I’m particularly proud of the successful second emergency alert test, which went out on Sunday 7 September at 3pm. I worked closely with the then Cabinet Secretary, Pat McFadden MP, to ensure everything ran smoothly and that the government is ready to act in a real emergency. I was also pleased to visit the charity Refuge to discuss how victims of domestic abuse with concealed phones were made aware of the alert and given the guidance they needed to disable it.

Furthermore:

  • St Margaret Clitherow Primary School visit to Parliament – So pleased that the pupils enjoyed their visit and that my team were able to join them on the day to share more about my work as their local MP.
  • Woodland Festival at Lesnes Abbey – Well done to all those who organised and joined the Woodland Festival at Lesnes Abbey, celebrating 500 years of heritage!
  • Women’s Lobby Reception – Great to join this important reception in the Speaker’s State Rooms in Parliament to recognise the vital work of women political journalists.
  • Happy Rosh Hashanah – Wishing a joyful new year to everyone in our community celebrating Rosh Hashanah.
  • National Fitness Day – Great to catch up with ukactive in Parliament and promote the vital role physical activity plays in our communities on National Fitness Day 2025.
  • Government’s Leaseholders Consultation – Have been pleased to highlight the Leaseholders Reform Consultation on my website and social media in the last couple of months to make sure residents’ views are heard on delivering these vital reforms. You can find out more on my website.
  • Connect to Work Funding boost – Pleased to welcome a £47.1m funding boost to help residents in Erith and Thamesmead into work. Everyone deserves the chance to fulfil their potential, and this will provide support for those facing long-term barriers.
  • Hillsborough Law – Proud to support the Prime Minister as he delivers on his election promise to bring the Hillsborough Law to Parliament.
  • Employment Rights Bill – Pleased to continue to support the passage of this Government’s groundbreaking Employment Rights Bill in Parliament this month.

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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“A huge opportunity for Thamesmead” – Abena Oppong-Asare MP welcomes government’s new housing and DLR plans for the area

Abena Oppong-Asare MP has today welcomed the government’s announcement that Thamesmead has been identified by the New Towns Taskforce as one of 12 recommended locations for the next generation of new towns.

The plans, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, set out ambitions to create thousands of new homes in Thamesmead. Crucially, the proposals highlight the opportunity to extend the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) into Thamesmead – a long-awaited step that would transform local transport links, boost the local economy, and improve access to jobs and services.

The Taskforce, set up to help deliver the government’s target of 1.5 million new homes this Parliament, recommends each new town should provide at least 10,000 homes, with 40% affordable and half of those for social rent. It also calls for accountable delivery bodies to give local communities long-term certainty.

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

“This is a huge opportunity for Thamesmead. The government’s plans for new homes and the DLR extension could be truly transformational – tackling London’s housing crisis, boosting local transport, and unlocking Thamesmead’s potential.

“Through my #NextStopThamesmead campaign I’ve long argued for better local transport connections, so I strongly welcome this positive step forward.

“I will work hard to ensure these plans are delivered in partnership with local residents and reflect our community’s needs.”

The Erith and Thamesmead MP recently visited Thamesmead Waterfront with Deputy Mayor Seb Dance, Greenwich Council Leader Cllr Anthony Okereke, and James Asser MP to hear about plans for new homes, local jobs, and the DLR extension. This visit came alongside the Chancellor’s Spending Review over the summer, where she committed to working with TfL on this project.

The government will now undertake a Strategic Environmental Assessment before confirming final sites next year. Abena Oppong-Asare MP has pledged to work with ministers and residents to put local people at the heart of these plans, so Thamesmead gets the homes, transport, and investment it deserves.

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Abena’s Christmas Card Competition 2025 Launch

I am delighted to announce that my annual Christmas Card Competition has officially launched.  Each year, I run this competition for primary school students across our constituency to produce amazing artwork that is sent to local stakeholders in Erith and Thamesmead.

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

Pupils can draw or paint a design that shows a local landmark in our constituency ensuring it has a Christmas theme. This might include 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.  

Entries must be accompanied by a few sentences explaining what the chosen design means to the young artist and why it makes them happy. 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 as well as my fellow MPs, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the House of Commons and His Majesty the King! 

The winner will receive a gift, and every child who enters a design, will receive a certificate thanking them for their participation. 

The submission process is as follows:    

  1. The artwork must be A4 in size (including the pupil’s name, age, class and school)   
  2. It must be accompanied by a few sentences explaining why the pupil chose to draw it   
  3. Pupils or teachers must scan or take a photo of the artwork and send via email to abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk with the message “Christmas card competition 2025” in the subject line. 
  4. The entry must be accompanied by the consent form supplied to the school to be completed by the child’s parent or carer. 
  5. Submissions must be received by close of play on Friday 7th November 2025.   

The winners will be announced in an email to all participating schools shortly after the deadline. I hope to attend the winning school to present the prizes in person and will be in touch with the relevant school to arrange a suitable date.    

Below are some previous winners to provide some inspiration.

Wishing all the participants the best of luck!

Previous Winners:

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Abena Welcomes £47.1m Funding Boost to Help Residents in Greenwich and Bexley Overcome Barriers to Work

Thousands of residents across Greenwich and Bexley — including many in Erith and Thamesmead — will benefit from new Government funding to help disabled people and those with long-term health conditions into work.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a £338 million investment into the new Connect to Work programme, which will provide tailored employment support for more than 85,000 people in 15 areas across England.

As part of this, up to £47.1 million has been allocated to the Local London Sub-Regional partnership, supporting 12,350 people locally, including in Greenwich and Bexley. The scheme will offer personalised coaching, job-matching services, and ongoing support to help people overcome barriers and secure sustainable jobs.

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

“This investment will make a real difference to people here in Erith and Thamesmead.

“Everyone deserves the chance to fulfil their potential, and this scheme will provide personalised support for those who may have faced long-term barriers to work.

“I’m delighted to see new opportunities being opened up across both Greenwich and Bexley, helping more people into secure and fulfilling work.”

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall, said:

“For too long, millions of people have been denied the support they need to get back to health and back to work.

“It’s bad for their living standards, it’s bad for their families, and it’s bad for the economy.

“That’s why we’re taking decisive action by investing millions of pounds so sick or disabled people can overcome the barriers they face and move out of poverty and into good, secure jobs as part of our Plan for Change.

With 2.8 million people out of work due to ill-health, this investment is a key step in the Government’s wider Plan for Change – helping sick and disabled people overcome barriers, move out of poverty, and secure good, stable jobs.

For more information, read the DWP Government announcement here.

Abena in Erith

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Have Your Say: Abena Oppong-Asare MP Welcomes Leaseholder Consultation

The Government is consulting on long-overdue reforms to the leasehold system – and this is your chance to influence change.

Too many leaseholders in Erith and Thamesmead face high service charges, poor management, and little say over their own homes. I hear regularly from residents about inflated fees, unaccountable managing agents, and restrictive rules.

This consultation, entitled “Strengthening leaseholder protections over fees, charges and services”, is in two parts:

Part 1: Implementing the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024

  • Increase transparency over fees and service charges, with clearer annual reports and access to building accounts.
  • Improving the appeals process by removing the presumption for leaseholders to pay the freeholder’s legal costs in certain cases.

Part 2: Further Reforms

  • Reforming the Section 20 ‘Major Works’ rules so agents plan ahead and leaseholders have more say in major projects.
  • Mandatory qualifications for managing agents to ensure competence and accountability.

Taken together, these proposals would give leaseholders far greater rights, protections, and power to challenge unfair costs. They are part of the Government’s wider plan to bring the feudal leasehold system to an end, with a draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill due later this year.

The consultation is open for 12 weeks, closing on the 26th September 2025.

You can have your say, and respond to the consultation here.

As your local MP, I will continue to push for a fairer, more transparent system for leaseholders in Erith and Thamesmead. Your voice and experiences matter – please take this chance to share them and help shape the future of these reforms.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about this consultation or if you need any further assistance.

Abena in Erith

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July 2025 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

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

Campaign Summer School 2025

This July, I was thrilled to host my fourth Campaign Summer School right here in the Erith and Thamesmead constituency.

Over the course of three inspiring days, we welcomed a fantastic group of enthusiastic and engaged local young people. They came eager to learn about how to run successful campaigns and develop the skills needed to make a real impact in our community – and they did just that.

We were also joined by an incredible lineup of guest speakers who delivered powerful and insightful sessions. These included tampon tax campaigners Laura Coryton MBE and Rima Amin, as well as The Apprentice star Chisola Chitambala.

I’m very grateful to our local councillors – including Cllr Anthony Okerere and Cllr Zainab Asunramu – who shared their experiences and advice on what it means to be a strong local representative. Their contributions were invaluable.

The Summer School also wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our sponsors, Oscar Mayer and Ocado; the generous hospitality of London South East Colleges; and the hard work of my great team.

Most importantly, I want to thank all the students who took part. Their energy, optimism, and passion for making a difference were truly inspiring. I have no doubt that they’ll go on to do amazing things.

Catch up on what happened by checking out the hashtag #AbenaSummerSchool on social media, and find out more about the programme on my website here.

One Year in Government

This month marks one year since Labour’s election victory last July. Over the past 12 months, I believe we’ve taken meaningful steps to deliver on our manifesto commitments for the people of Erith and Thamesmead – and across the country.

Our achievements so far include:

  • Millions more NHS appointments to reduce waiting times
  • Breakfast clubs introduced in local primary schools
  • Higher living wages for millions of workers
  • The biggest expansion of workers’ rights in a generation
  • Increased investment to fix potholes and improve roads
  • A serious crackdown on fly-tipping
  • A vital increase in defence spending
  • Biggest investment in social & affordable housing in a generation

I know there’s still a great deal more to do, and I recognise that some tough decisions have had to be made along the way. But I remain confident that we’re on the right path – one guided by progressive, compassionate values that put working families and the most vulnerable at the heart of policy-making.

Humanitarian Situation in Gaza and Pathway to Recognition of a Palestinian State

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to write to me about the appalling scenes and situation in Gaza. I share your deep concern and heartbreak, and I know how strongly we all want to see an immediate ceasefire, urgent humanitarian relief, and a lasting peace for both Palestinians and Israelis.

I’m grateful and encouraged to see the significant steps the Prime Minister has taken in recent weeks and months to push for a meaningful and enduring peace – including sanctions on Israeli Ministers, suspending trade talks and suspending arms licenses to Israel, which could be used in the conflict. I fully support his leadership in this effort.

This month, the Prime Minister announced that the UK Government will set out a clear pathway to the recognition of a Palestinian state ahead of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September. This is a vital part of a wider strategy for peace – one that seeks to end the suffering and re-establish a credible path to a two-state solution.

My position remains clear: there must be an immediate ceasefire. Israel must end its military campaign and withdraw from Gaza. Hamas must release all remaining hostages. And, above all, humanitarian aid must reach those in desperate need now.

I will continue to support these vital efforts to bring about an end to this conflict. You can read the Prime Minister’s full statement on the Government website here.

Pride on the Pier in Erith  

It was a real joy to take part in the return of the Erith Pride on the Pier festival. I was delighted to see so many familiar faces from our community and to join in the fantastic celebrations. Huge congratulations to Cllr Nicola Taylor and everyone involved in organising such a wonderful day!

Erith and Woolwich Kabaddi Tournament

Congratulations to the Erith and Woolwich Kabaddi Club on organising yet another fantastic tournament! It was a real pleasure to attend alongside Tan Dhesi MP, Cllr Baljeet Gill, and so many passionate Kabaddi supporters. Incredible to see how much this event continues to grow each year – well done to everyone involved!

Visit to All Saints Belvedere

Lovely also to visit All Saints Belvedere and meet the new Reverend, Ethlyn Roy-Johnson. It was a fantastic opportunity to hear all about the great work they do as an institution in the community, being there for those in need. Looking forward to being back there again soon.

Visit to Re-Instate Erith

Had the pleasure of visiting the Re-Instate team in Erith – a Bexley-based charity supporting adults with mental health challenges, learning disabilities, and autism. Spoke with their CEO Simon Hart and staff about the crucial role of community-based mental health support, and had the chance to meet users and view their inspiring artwork.

Constituency Surgery

I’m pleased to have held my advice surgery this month, speaking with constituents in need of support and guidance through challenging times. As always, if you live in Erith and Thamesmead and believe I can help with any issue, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with my office at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk

Sustainable Streets Consultation

Thank you to all those who have contacted me regarding the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s recently launched Sustainable Streets consultation. This is an issue that many feel strongly about, and one that has generated a lot of discussion in our community.

While I do not have any formal authority over the process and as a MP, have no oversight of Greenwich Council planning, I am committed to ensuring that residents’ concerns are heard and that the process is transparent and accessible. I plan to meet with council officials and elected members to discuss these issues in the near future. I also welcome the extension to the consultation by more than a month – until Tuesday 30 September 2025 – among other updates announced here.

In the meantime, I would strongly encourage all those impacted to complete the consultation if you have not already done so. This is the most effective way to ensure your views are formally recorded. You can find the consultation and respond to it here.

Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office

This month also marks one year since my appointment as a Minister in the Government and Cabinet Office. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved – both within my team and across Government – and I’d like to share some recent work and what’s ahead.

I’m particularly pleased to highlight the launch of the UK Government Resilience Action Plan. The pandemic underscored the need to take resilience seriously and coordinate our efforts across society. While we can’t predict every risk, we can address vulnerabilities and strengthen our preparedness. The Action Plan builds on significant post-pandemic work and sets out how we’ll improve resilience in the short, medium, and long term. It brings together cross-government policies and programmes to help identify and mitigate risks. You can read the full plan on the Government website here.

Looking ahead, I’ve also been working on the National Emergency Alert test, taking place at around 3pm on Sunday 7 September. This test is part of efforts to strengthen national preparedness. The Emergency Alerts system warns of life-threatening events – such as severe weather – by delivering timely, location-specific alerts to mobile phones. You can find out more about the test and about plans for the largest pandemic exercise in the country’s history also here.

I remain committed to working hard for constituents and families across the country to help keep the public safe and prepared.

Furthermore:

  • Riverside Gardens in Erith – Very nice to pop by the newly regenerated Riverside Gardens in Erith with a new playground, fitness zone and gardening area.
  • Congratulations to the Lionesses! – Well done to the England Women’s Football Team on becoming European Champions once again – an inspiring achievement!
  • Update on TfL’s SL11 consultation – Thanks to all who replied to TfL’s Superloop consultation to replace the 472. They have published their report and decision here.
  • Extending the DLR to Thamesmead Consultation –TfL also have released new proposals on this project and – until 17 August 2025 – you can have your say here.
  • Meeting with CEO of Bexley Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) – Lovely to meet Jattinder Rai to discuss the important work of the BVSC.
  • 20 years on from the 7/7 bombings – Let us remember the 52 lives lost and all those affected by that tragic day. We will never forget.
  • Mayor of London’s Summer Reception in Parliament – Pleasure to join the Mayor and continue discussions about building a safer and more inclusive city for all.
  • Parliamentary Address by French President – Honour to attend this important address by President Macron and celebrate the enduring bond between our nations.
  • Best Start Family Hubs – Pleased to join Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson MP, this month to welcome these hubs that will build on the great legacy of Sure Start.
  • Gurdwara Aid Parliamentary Reception – Fantastic to welcome the launch of the Gurdwara Handbook and have members of our local Sikh community present also.
  • Srebrenica Memorial Day – Vital to honour the memory of the victims of the Srebrenica genocide of July 1995 alongside the organisation Srebrenica UK.
  • Marking 97 years of Women Gaining the Right to Vote – Proud to be the 528th female MP and join Centenary Action and my colleagues with a sash and photo.
  • Celebrating 20 years of Fabian Women Network (FWN) – Lovley to speak at this event to mark 20 years of FWN and join a room a change-makers.
  • Spoke at Marsha De Cordova Summer School – Great to speak to many nice young people.
  • Welcoming John O’Rourke Family & Friends to Parliament – Delighted to do this in appreciation for all John has done as Secretary for the Abbey Wood Memorial Garden.

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 Oppong-Asare MP Hosts Record-Breaking Campaign Summer School for Young Changemakers

Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, hosted her annual Campaign Summer School this July – an inspiring three-day event aimed at empowering local young people to get involved in politics, build campaigning skills, and make their voices heard.

Held from Wednesday 23 to Friday 25 July at London South East Colleges’ (LSEC) Greenwich Campus in Plumstead, the Summer School welcomed close to 30 local students – a record number for the initiative. The programme featured expert-led sessions from across the political, media, business, and local government sectors, offering participants a unique, hands-on insight into how change happens.

This year’s active agenda included:

  • “From petition to national campaign” with Tampon Tax activists Laura Coryton MBE and Rima Amin
  • “Trailblazer in the Corporate World” with BBC’s The Apprentice star Chisola Chitambala
  • “Local Government and Community Leadership” with Cllr Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council, and Martin Angus, Political Adviser at the Local Government Association
  • “The Role of Media and Local Journalism” with Aletha Adu (The Guardian) and Darryl Chamberlain (Greenwich Wire)

The event was generously sponsored by Oscar Mayer, one of the UK’s leading chilled food manufacturers, and Ocado Retail, the world’s largest dedicated online supermarket – both of which play an active role in the local community.

After the Campaign Summer School, Abena Oppong-Asare MP is launching a new LinkedIn Network to bring together students, speakers, and her network in one shared space. The aim is to keep the conversation going – sharing ideas, life updates, and campaign efforts to drive positive change in the community.

Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:

“It was a real pleasure to host my annual Campaign Summer School once again here in Erith and Thamesmead constituency.

“We welcomed so many talented and motivated local students, all eager to get a head start on their future careers and to learn how to make a difference in their local communities and beyond.

“This year’s Summer School was our biggest yet, date and I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved. A huge thank you to the students, speakers and sponsors who it such a success. I’m already looking forward to next year!”

One 2025 Campaign Summer School graduate, shared:

“I am hugely grateful for the experience as I gained political insight through learning about the role of an MP, and what it’s like working with an MP in a constituency office.

“It has also allowed me to create a larger network of other determined, driven and ambitious individuals that I’m sure are as inspired by Abena’s selflessness to leave her busy schedule to be with us as I am.

“It’s been a true pleasure to be a part of this event, and I can’t wait for the next!”

Dr Sam Parrett CBE, Group CEO at London South East Colleges (LSEC) said:

“We were absolutely delighted to host this fantastic Summer School at our Greenwich Campus once again.

“Supporting opportunities like this for local young people is central to our civic mission as an education group – empowering and inspiring them to get their voices heard and achieve their ambitions.”

Oscar Mayer, sponsor of the Campaign Summer School, added:

“Oscar Mayer is incredibly proud to sponsor and support the 2025 Summer School hosted by Abena Oppong-Asare MP at London Southeast Colleges in Greenwich, an inspiring initiative that gives young people real-world insights into careers, confidence-building, and the skills employers are looking for.

“As part of the programme, Oscar Mayer’s Head of Talent & Development, Steve Beadle, led a session titled Public Relations in the Working World and the Food Industry. The session explored how personal branding, communication, and professional values are increasingly essential in today’s workforce, particularly in fast-moving, reputation-driven industries like food manufacturing.

“The company extends its thanks to Abena Oppong-Asare MP and London Southeast Colleges for organising such an impactful programme, and to the students whose energy and enthusiasm made the event such a success.”

Abena Oppong-Asare MP looks forward to welcoming even more young changemakers to next year’s Campaign Summer School, continuing her mission to build a more engaged, informed, and empowered generation.

Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:

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