The first of two cost of living support payments will automatically be paid to approximately 7,300 eligible households in Mid Sussex which receive means tested benefits - between 14th July and 31st July - of £326. I am pleased we are helping the most vulnerable at this difficult time.
I joined the Westminster Hall debate on boosting careers guidance in schools to raise the importance of providing students with practical, in person training to equip them with the skills they need to enter and thrive in the workforce. The recent STEM event in Mid Sussex was a fantastic opportunity for schoolchildren to learn about careers and local businesses they may not have previously been aware of. Many jobs in Mid Sussex are not on the high street, but in industrial and other unseen areas, many exporting globally. People do not need to work in a big building to have big opportunities; it is important that young people see that.
Meanwhile MSDC’s ShopAppy has now launched in Burgess Hill, and it was fabulous to be able to help promote this scheme. Last Friday saw the Sussex Chamber of Commerce host their first Business Expo in Burgess Hill. It was a real privilege to open this amazing and successful event and join the attendees.
Rampion 2 Offshore Wind Farm has pleasingly selected the Kent Street site for its new substation. Following detailed studies, it was clearly better overall from an engineering and environmental perspective than at Wineham Lane North. I’m hopeful that Bolney residents will be relieved at this positive outcome.
Our local care homes do a tremendous job, and it was lovely to join Walstead Place on Friday and see their carpet bowls sports afternoon in full swing, chat to residents and thank the hardworking staff.
I joined our final Mid Sussex Jubilee celebration on Saturday night, as Coro Nuovo put on a fabulous concert including the final of Sussex Young Musician. An absolute pleasure to listen to such amazing talent and hear this wonderful musical selection.