Honoured to unveil the new Children’s section and plaque at Abbey Wood Memorial Garden.
The garden, entirely volunteer-run under the dedicated leadership of Secretary John O’Rourke, has been 11 years in the making.
It was a privilege to join the team, local community, and veterans for such a meaningful occasion.
Congratulations to John and all involved on this remarkable achievement.
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead has today (Friday 6 June) come out in support of the Labour government’s plans to deliver a free nutritious meal every school day for over half a million more children, as Labour puts £500 back into parents’ pockets every year by expanding eligibility for free school meals.
This news comes after the successful launch of free breakfast clubs earlier this year, including at local primary schools in Erith and Thamesmead. Abena Oppong-Asare MP was delighted to visit one of these schools – Jubilee Primary School – to witness firsthand the positive difference the breakfast clubs are already making for local pupils and their families.
This announcement now means from the start of the 2026 school year, every pupil in Erith and Thamesmead whose household is on Universal Credit will have a new entitlement to free school meals. This will make life easier and more affordable for parents who struggle the most, delivering on Labour’s Plan for Change to break down barriers to opportunity and give children the best start in life.
The unprecedented expansion will lift 100,000 children across England completely out of poverty. Giving children the access to a nutritious meal during the school day also leads to higher attainment, improved behaviour and better outcomes – meaning they get the best possible education and chance to succeed in work and life.
The expansion will mean half a million more free lunches across England, on top of the 3 million already dished out every day – bringing the numbers up towards 8,880 right here in Erith and Thamesmead constituency.
Since 2018, children have only been eligible for free school meals if their household income is less than £7,400 per year, meaning hundreds of thousands of children living in poverty has been unable to access free school meals.
Labour’s historic new expansion to those on Universal Credit will change this and comes ahead of the Child Poverty Taskforce publishing its ten-year-strategy to drive sustainable change later this year. It comes on top of targeted support for families being hit the hardest with the cost-of-living crisis, with urgent action including raising the national minimum wage, uprating benefits and supporting 700,000 families through the Fair Repayment Rate on Universal Credit deductions.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“Working parents across the country are working tirelessly to provide for their families but are being held back by cost-of-living pressures.
“My government is taking action to ease those pressures. Feeding more children every day, for free, is one of the biggest interventions we can make to put more money in parents’ pockets, tackle the stain of poverty, and set children up to learn.
“This expansion is a truly historic moment for our country, helping families who need it most and delivering our Plan for Change to give every child, no matter their background, the same chance to succeed.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:
“It is the moral mission of this government to tackle the stain of child poverty, and today this government takes a giant step towards ending it with targeted support that puts money back in parents’ pockets.
“From free school meals to free breakfast clubs, breaking the cycle of child poverty is at the heart of our Plan for Change to cut the unfair link between background and success.
“We believe that background shouldn’t mean destiny. Today’s historic step will help us to deliver excellence everywhere, for every child and give more young people the chance to get on in life.”
Labour is also offering more than £13 million in funding to 12 food charities across England to redistribute thousands of tonnes of fresh produce directly from farms to fight food poverty in communities.
The Tackling Food Surplus at the Farm Gate scheme is helping farms and organisations to work collaboratively to ensure edible food that might have been left in fields instead ends up on the plates of those who need it, including schoolchildren. This comes as part of Labour’s wider Food Strategy, helping to drive change and support a healthier, more sustainable and resilient food system.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:
“Poverty robs children of opportunities and damages their future prospects. This is a moral scar on our society we are committed to tackling.
“By expanding Free School Meals to all families on Universal Credit, we’re ending the impossible choice thousands of our hardest grafting families must make between paying bills and feeding their children.
“This is just the latest step of our Plan for Change to put extra pounds in people’s pockets – a downpayment on our Child Poverty Strategy, building on our expansion of free breakfast clubs, our national minimum wage boost and our cap on Universal Credit deductions through the Fair Repayment Rate.”
Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:
“I know from speaking directly to local parents how much the stain of child poverty has impacted families in Erith and Thamesmead.
“That’s why I fully support this decisive and much needed action to expand the entitlement for free school meals to thousands of children across Erith and Thamesmead, lifting many out of poverty and putting money back in parents’ pockets.
“Children deserve the best start in life, and I’m proud that Labour is delivering this through its Plan for Change.”
To ensure quality and nutrition in meals for the future, Labour is also acting quickly with experts across the sector to revise the School Food Standards, so every school is supported with the latest nutrition guidance.
This new entitlement will apply to children in all settings where free school meals are currently delivered, including schools, school-based nurseries and Further Education settings. We expect the majority of schools will allow parents to apply before the start of the school year 2026, by providing their National Insurance Number to check their eligibility.
Schools and local authorities will continue to receive pupil premium and home to school transport extended rights funding based on the existing free school meals threshold.
This is just the latest step in Labour’s Plan for Change to break the unfair link between background and opportunity, including rolling out free breakfast clubs, expanding government funded childcare to 30 hours a week for working parents and commitment to cap the number of branded school uniform items.
From April 2026 until the end of parliament, millions of households are set to receive a permanent yearly above inflation boost to Universal Credit. The increase, a key element of the Government’s welfare reforms to be laid before Parliament, will tackle the destitution caused by years of inaction that has left the value of the standard allowance at a 40 year low by the early 2020s.
Dear Friends,
Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for May 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
Positive steps forward through our Plan for Change
Whether it’s securing major trade deals with the EU, USA, and India, or delivering local initiatives like free breakfast clubs and tougher action on fly-tipping, this Government is taking meaningful steps to improve lives across Britain.
The economy is also recovering – it’s now the fastest-growing in the G7, and interest rates have been cut four times since the election last year. And I’m pleased that the Prime Minister has taken the decision to review the Winter Fuel Payment after listening to voters across the country. I know this will be positive news for many local residents.
Our ‘Plan for Change’ is working – but I know full well there’s so much more to do. I’m focused on building on the progress we’ve made – delivering more, delivering faster, and always with working people at the heart of it.
Fly-tipping Crackdown in Erith and Thamesmead
Fly-tipping has been a persistent issue in Erith and Thamesmead and across the country – up by a fifth in recent years, while prosecutions have fallen. Our streets and green spaces deserve better.
Having campaigned on this in Opposition, I fully back the Government’s new crackdown on rogue waste operators. For too long, fly-tippers got away with it – that ends now. Find out more how this will make difference locally and hear directly from the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on my website here or online here.
Visiting New Free Breakfast Clubs at Local Schools
I’m delighted that Willow Bank Primary and Jubilee Primary – both in Erith and Thamesmead – were chosen for the first phase of the free breakfast clubs’ rollout in Primary Schools across the country.
It was lovely to visit Jubilee Primary and see the breakfast club in action. Speaking with teachers, parents, and students, it’s clear these clubs will make a real difference. Learn more on my website.
Visit to Severndroog Castle ahead of VE Day
Proud to visit Severndroog Castle and speak at their VE day celebrations and their May Producers Market. I had the pleasure of seeing the wonderful view of London at its peak and listen to the Greenwich Community Choir as well as taking part in other activities on the day. Great to be joined by Cllr Zeeshan and to see so many residents celebrating and commemorating together.
Meeting with Home Instead Dartford in Erith
This month, I was also able to visit the Home Instead Dartford office in Erith. I had a very constructive discussion with their team on the importance of local carers and our care sector. Lovely to hear about their great community work also, including their work with Christ Church, Erith and Hawksmoor Primary School in Thamesmead.
End of Mayoral Term Charity Dinner with Cllr Jit Ranabhat
Had the pleasure of attending Cllr Jit Ranabhat’s End of Mayoral Term Charity Dinner. A sincere thank you to him for his dedicated service as Mayor of Greenwich – particularly as the first mayor of Nepalese heritage.
Throughout his term, he’s made a meaningful impact by engaging with underrepresented communities and championing charitable causes. His leadership over the past year has been truly inspiring.
Speaking at Men’s Matters Meeting
Nice to join a Men’s Matters meeting at the Moorings Centre in Thamesmead. It was good to speak to them on the importance of mental health issues in men and giving residents guidance about how they access help and support in our community.
VE Day Celebrations
This month marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. It was important to remember and commemorate all those who lost their lives. You can watch a video I did to mark the day here and find out more about constituency events going forward here.
My Campaign Summer School Deadline
As you may know, this Summer I’m excited to be hosting my Campaign Summer School right here in Erith and Thamesmead. If you know anyone between 16 and 18, who may be interested, let them know how to find our more and sign up on my dedicated webpage here! The deadline to sign up is Friday 27 June 2025!
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
Pleased to share some key progress we’ve made in the Cabinet Office this past month.
Firstly, I joined the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to open the new UK Resilience Academy, which will train over 4,000 professionals a year to help the UK respond to major threats.
I also visited Sheffield Hallam University to explore how government, industry, and academia can work together to build a skilled cyber workforce – crucial for our national security and economic growth.
Finally, I toured the new Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Training Academy in Aintree – a world-class facility supporting fire and rescue teams across the UK. In Aintree, I also joined the third meeting of the Government’s national Floods Resilience Taskforce.
Keeping people safe is our top priority, and these steps are part of how we’re delivering on that mission.
Furthermore:
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
Pupils in Erith and Thamesmead are set to benefit from essential maintenance fixes being rolled out in schools across the country thanks to the Labour government, with up to £110.3 million being invested in schools across London alone through the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF).
Children at these local schools will benefit from a share of £470 million for projects in education and healthcare settings, set to fix crumbling roofs and remove dangerous asbestos – restoring pride in England’s classrooms and undoing years of dangerous Conservative neglect.
The five schools in Erith and Thamesmead that will benefit from the fund include:
These schools will benefit from a range of essential upgrades, including urgent fire safety improvements, modern heating systems, and other critical infrastructure repairs. This will ensure local pupils are kept warm, safe, and in the best possible environment for learning.
The funding is part of Labour’s mission to fix the dire state of public services inherited from the Conservatives and deliver investment and reform through the Plan for Change, supporting children to get the best start in life.
It is part of a record £2.1 billion investment into the school estate this year – £300 million more than the previous year – as Labour forges on with delivering for the public by investing in our children, their futures and the future of this country.
MP for Erith and Thamesmead, Abena Oppong-Asare, said:
“Parents across Erith and Thamesmead will remember the terror of the RAAC crisis, the fear that children were no longer safe in their own school because of years of Tory neglect.
“Labour is turning the page through our Plan for Change, literally fixing the foundations of our schools so local children are in a safe environment where the can achieve and thrive.
“Having spoken directly to many schools in our community, I know just how urgently these improvements are needed. These upgrades will make a real difference to staff, pupils, and the future of our local schools.
“With free breakfast clubs, cheaper uniform costs and safer schools, Labour is setting children up for the best start.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:
“The defining image of the school estate under the previous government was children sitting under steel props to stop crumbling concrete falling on their heads. It simply isn’t good enough.
“Parents expect their children to learn in a safe warm environment. It’s what children deserve, and it is what we are delivering.
“This investment is about more than just buildings – it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.”
Labour’s investment will deliver energy efficient, warm classrooms with safe outdoor spaces that are not just fit for lessons, but for the future. Creating a welcoming and supportive school environment for generations of children so they can achieve and thrive as they progress through their education.
A further £1.4 billion will back the acceleration of the School Rebuilding Programme this year, with a commitment to kickstart projects at 100 schools this year alone, as Labour seeks to fix the foundations of our school estate.
Rejuvenating schools by delivering new, high-quality buildings that are not just energy efficient but fit for all pupils needs.
This will provide high-tech facilities that will raise the standards of education through new sports halls, IT rooms, school kitchens and playgrounds that children and staff can enjoy for years to come.
Projects will be delivered during the 2025 to 2026 financial year, with the first upgrades expected to begin this summer.
In recent years, fly-tipping has skyrocketed by a fifth whilst the number of prosecutions has fallen by the same amount. The failure to punish these criminals has left our high streets, roads and countryside buried under an avalanche of rubbish.
Having campaigned on this issue during my time in opposition, I strongly welcome the new Government’s tough stance on fly-tipping and waste crime. For far too long, under previous Governments, waste criminals and fly-tippers who blight our communities went unpunished undeterred. That ends now.
Councils will now have the power to work with the police to identify, seize, and crush vehicles used by waste criminals. Drones and mobile CCTV cameras will be deployed to track down the cars and vans used by fly-tippers so they can be taken off our streets and destroyed.
Those who operate illegally will face serious consequences – with new legislation introducing prison sentences of up to five years for those caught transporting or dealing with waste unlawfully.
These are strong but necessary steps to clean our streets, both here in Erith and Thamesmead and across Britain as well. I will continue to keep a close eye on how this policy is implemented locally, and I welcome any concerns or suggestions constituents may have as we work together to tackle this important local issue.
Pleased the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs personally addressed this vital issue facing Erith and Thamesmead in the video above.
My Post on Social Media supporting the Government Announcement:
Dear Friends,
Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for April 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
Applications for my Campaign Summer School are Open
Very pleased to announce that my Campaign Summer School is back, with applications open now.
At the jam-packed 3-day school, young people between 16 and 18 will have a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the world of political and social campaigning from veteran political activists and partner organisations.
It’s taking place from Wednesday 23 July to Friday 25 July right here in Erith and Thamesmead. So if you’re interested – or know someone who might be – then find out more on my website here.
Crossness 160th Anniversary Celebration
Lovely to commemorate the 160th anniversary of Crossness this month with the Crossness Engines Trust. I was pleased to speak at the event and praise the important work done by the Trust and their volunteers in ensuring that the pumping station is publicly accessible and in such a great condition.
It was great to be joined by the Mayors of Bexley, Bromley, Dartford and Greenwich, as well former local MP John Austen and the great-great-grandson of Crossness’ achitect Sir Joseph Bazalgette, Sir Peter Bazalgette.
Visit to Jubilee Primary School
This month, I also had the pleasure of visiting Jubilee Primary School and meeting members of their School Parliament. I answered their great questions and discussed my political journey. I also had the chance to visit a Year 3 class who shared letters to me with their concerns about plastic pollution and climate change.
It is important that as many young people as possible are aware of local and national issues we face, so I was really pleased with how engaged all the students were!
TUC Black Workers’ Conference 2025
I was honoured to be invited to speak at the annual TUC Black Workers’ Conference, where I had the opportunity to share my political journey and reflect on how my union played a vital role in shaping my activism and politics.
It is essential that we continue to stand in solidarity with workers from all backgrounds and celebrate the vital contributions our diverse workforce makes to our country.
Government action to save British Steel
Proud to join the Government this month in voting to take control of British Steel. This important step will protect jobs and safeguard our security at home and abroad.
Sadly, the previous government failed to act, which made it more important that decisive action was taken this month to secure the future of the site, bringing security to the thousands of steelworkers, their families and the community of Scunthorpe.
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
It has been another important month in my role as a Minister in the Cabinet Office. For example, I’ve answered a number of critical written questions from other Members of Parliament on topics I’m responsible for, such as transparency data, security vetting and national security.
Additionally, I recently responded to a debate regarding the Government’s relationship with the European Union. I highlighted the positive dialogue and reset that is taking place and the vital steps being taken, like efforts to secure a UK-EU security pact, involving cooperation on foreign policy and defence, and to address trade barriers. If you are interested you can watch my speech here or read it here.
Furthermore:
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
School mornings have likely got a lot easier for many families in the constituency of Erith and Thamesmead this month as the Labour Government rolls out an initial 750 free breakfast clubs at primary schools across the country.
Two of the schools selected for this initial phase are Willow Bank Primary School and Jubilee Primary School, both based in South East London’s Thamesmead community.
The breakfast clubs offer 30 minutes of free childcare, a healthy start for kids and a little more breathing room before the school bell rings.
Parents will be supported with additional time at the start of the day to attend appointments, get to work on time and run errands. In total, this means parents may be able to save up to 95 additional hours and £450 per year if their child attends free breakfast clubs every day.
This amount rises to a saving of up to £8,000 every year when combining Labour’s free breakfast clubs with further support through the expansion of government-funded childcare and new school uniform cap on branded items.
Today, local MP for Erith and Thamesmead, Abena Oppong-Asare, welcomed the announcement by visiting Jubilee Primary School. She joined their morning breakfast club and spoke with teachers, parents, and students about the positive impact these clubs will have on their lives.
Universal free breakfast clubs are central to the Labour Government’s Plan for Change, removing barriers to opportunity by making sure every child starts the school day ready to learn – with research showing the clubs have a lasting impact on children’s behaviour, attendance and attainment.
The scheme also has an important role to play in Labour’s commitment remove the stain of child poverty. Out of the 180,000 children who will benefit from the early adopter schools nationwide, around 67,000 attend schools in deprived areas. This will provide an essential meal to ensure every child starts the day ready to learn.
These clubs also sit alongside Labour’s action to tackle the cost of living, with inflation falling for two months in a row, wages growing faster than prices and fuel duty frozen. Together, the Labour Government believes this shows their Plan for Change is delivering for working families.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“As a parent, I know that the combined pressures of family life and work can often feel impossible to juggle. That is why our manifesto promised to make parents lives easier and put more money in their pockets with free breakfast clubs. Under a year since we came into office, this government is delivering that through our Plan for Change.
“The rollout of free breakfast clubs is a truly game-changing moment for families in this country. They mean parents will no longer be hamstrung by rigid school hours and have the breathing space they need to beat the morning rush, attend work meetings and doctors’ appointments, or run errands. And crucially, it means better life chances for children.
“By making these clubs free and universal, we’re doing something that previous governments have never done. We’re going further and faster to deliver the change working families deserve. That’s the change this government was elected to deliver.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:
“Free breakfast clubs are a central part of our Plan for Change. At a time when there is so much pressure on families, they provide real help with the cost of living and ensure children start the day with a nutritious meal.
“On top of the hectic school run, parents should not have to worry about how to balance work and getting their children fed and ready for school. These clubs will break down barriers and help children settle in, focus and get the most out of their learning.
“We are delivering on our promises and giving every child the best start in life while making sure families get the support they need, wherever they live.”
Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, said:
“I was elected to on a manifesto promising change and the opening of the new free breakfast clubs at Willow Bank Primary School and Jubilee Primary School, supporting families in Erith and Thamesmead, shows that Labour is delivering.
“The new clubs prove that Labour’s Plan for Change is putting children first, supporting working families and breaking down barriers to opportunity.
“During my visit to Jubilee Primary School today, I saw firsthand how the free breakfast clubs are set to become a vital support for our local community; getting children school-ready, improving attendance, attainment and wellbeing, as well as saving local families up to £8,000 a year.”
Government research shows most parents (87%) think breakfast clubs are a good chance for children to socialise, and two thirds (66%) recognise the value of clubs providing educational activities.
Breakfast clubs have been shown to boost children’s reading, writing, and maths by an average of two months.
Early Adopter schools, including Willow Bank Primary School and Jubilee Primary School will shape the future of the national breakfast club policy, contributing directly to its implementation. The wider paid-for wraparound childcare offer – for all primary children to be able to access childcare between 8am-6pm – continues to roll out across the country.
Victoria Taylor, mum of two children aged 5 and 7, said:
“For me, free breakfast clubs provide vital support, meaning I can get into work a little easier and ensure my two kids are settled and ready to learn.
“I’m a primary school teacher, so early mornings are a must however I try to not let my busy schedule dictate the pace of mornings. “Taking my children to breakfast clubs means I know they are fed, ready to start the day and emotionally regulated – the commitment to rollout nationally will make the world of difference for working families.”
Social Media Post from Abena Oppong-Asare MP visit to Jubilee Primary School:
This Summer, Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, announces she will once again be hosting her annual Campaign Summer School, and encourages young people interested in making a difference in their community to sign up now.
Taking place from Wednesday 23rd to Friday 25th July 2025, 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.
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.
The Summer School programme is expected to include sessions from:
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 Saturday 31 May 2025.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“As the first female government minister of Ghanaian descent I know firsthand that whether you’re dealing with environmental issues, crime, or education, effective campaigning is the key to influencing and challenging those in power.
“I am determined to do all I can to empower our young people to be the change they want to see in the world.
“That’s why I am so exciting to launch my Campaign Summer School 2025, taking place this July, and I encourage everyone aged between 16 and 18 living locally to sign up now! See you there.”
Testimonies from past Campaign Summer School alumni:
“We all left empowered and with our minds stimulated. The emphasis on the importance of thinking critically about the world around us, and how to take action in orchestrating the change we want to see.”
“It was an amazing opportunity, it made it clear what we as young people can do to make a change, it inspired me to start a campaign and campaign to change something I am passionate about.”
“It was eye-opening and inspirational and made me want to do more for society.”
For any further information please contact the Office of Abena Oppong-Asare MP at: abena.oppongasare.mp@parliament.uk
Dear Friends,
Thank you for taking the time to look at my monthly newsletter for March 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
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2025
This month, we celebrated International Women’s Day 2025 – an important occasion for girls and young women across our country and the world. It’s a time to reflect on the significant progress made toward gender equality and to renew our commitment to creating equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender or background.
This year was particularly special as we celebrated the remarkable progress in electing women to the House of Commons. In last year’s election, a record-breaking 263 women were elected, making up an all-time high of 40 percent.
To mark the day, I was proud to stand alongside my fellow women MPs in the House of Commons chamber. I also posted a video on the day, which you can see here.
Greenwich Mummies Forum visit on IWD
Lovely to join the Greenwich Mummies Forum at the Plumstead Centre as part of their festivities celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD). It was inspiring to hear from our local mums and shine a spotlight on their incredible strength.
Visit to Lessness Heath Primary School
Enjoyed my visit to Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere, meeting Headteacher Miss Bolton, Assistant Headteacher Mr Jackson and Primary First Trust’s CEO Miss Hamilton.
It was also fantastic to tour the school, meet the wonderful students during their lunch break, and even wish the school dog, Lola, a very happy birthday!
Visit to Oscar Mayer in Erith
Pleased to visit Oscar Mayer on Erith Marshes this month. I had a productive discussion with Alex James and his team on their role locally and the challenges they face. I’m committed to supporting our local businesses while also securing the strongest workers’ rights in a generation.
Ghana’s 68th Independence Day Parliament Event
I was thrilled to attend Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration reception in Parliament, hosted by Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP. It was a fantastic event, joined by Lord Paul Boateng, the Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, and many other important voices from the Ghanaian community here in the UK.
As the first female Minister of Ghanaian heritage, it meant a lot to be part of this celebration and represent our constituency, which has the largest African descendant population in the country. It was a great chance to shine a light on the incredible contributions of Ghanaians in the UK and come together for such a special occasion!
Usdaw ‘Breaking Down Barriers’ event in Parliament
Pleased to join members of Usdaw’s Breaking Down Barriers programme during their visit to the Houses of Parliament.
It was good to see the important work Usdaw is doing to strengthen representation in union roles, workplaces across the country, and in politics. The group was full of impressive individuals from all walks of life who asked thoughtful questions.
Women’s History Month in Parliament
This March, we’re also celebrating Women’s History Month. It was great to join fellow Members of Parliament at the House of Commons Speaker’s reception to mark the occasion and reflect on the progress made by women in the UK.
Update on the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’
This month, the Government has continued delivering on its ‘Plan for Change’. I’m pleased to see the Education Secretary recently launch the initial rollout of free breakfast clubs, benefiting children across England, including Jubilee Primary School and Willow Bank Primary School in our constituency of Erith and Thamesmead.
I also backed the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill, which will cut school costs for families, drive up standards, and ensure no child falls through the cracks. Additionally, Parliament approved the Employment Rights Bill, the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation – strengthening sick pay, banning exploitative contracts, and protecting against unfair dismissal.
Finally, I welcome the Government’s “Pathways to Work” Green Paper, which includes proposals to tackle inactivity and improve employment support for disabled people and those with health conditions. While I recognise the sensitivity of this issue, I believe these crucial steps will contribute to creating a fairer system that enables individuals to live with dignity and independence.
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
I’ve been excited to carry on my work in the Cabinet Office this month. I began by attending and speaking at the opening of Lloyd’s of London’s ‘Life in the Sun’s Atmosphere’ exhibition. I spoke about what the Government is doing to build a more resilient society. Find out more here.
During Cabinet Office Questions, I was pleased to update the House of Commons on the Government’s emergency alert system to keep the public alert and safe as quickly as possible during emergencies.
Additionally, it was important and moving to join Cabinet Office colleagues and other Members of Parliament to commemorate the COVID-19 Day of Reflection – marking five years on from the start of the pandemic. It was a time to remember those we lost and honour the sacrifices made by so many.
Furthermore:
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
Enjoyed my visit to Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere, meeting Headteacher Miss Bolton, Assistant Headteacher Mr Jackson and Primary First Trust’s CEO Miss Hamilton.
It was also fantastic to tour the school, meet the wonderful students during their lunch break, and even wish the school dog, Lola, a very happy birthday!
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Had a great time visiting Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere last Friday!
— Abena Oppong-Asare MP (@abenaopp) March 28, 2025
Loved touring the school, meeting the amazing students and teachers, and wishing school dog Lola a happy birthday!@Lessnessprimary pic.twitter.com/UvL9SlKrGH
