I began last week with another local listening and advice surgery before heading to Westminster. I hold regular surgeries which can be in person, virtual or over the phone-whatever best suits. Do get in touch if you would like an appointment. We always prioritise surgeries for those with urgent personal matters.
I was delighted to welcome constituents to Westminster this Tuesday for a tour plus PMQ visitors from Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill, as well as Hurst College to Parliament for a tour alongside my colleague Andrew Griffith, MP for Arundel and South Downs. As well as UK Parliament tours, for larger groups, local schools and colleges I offer personal tours. I also organise small tours and PMQ visits. Do get in touch if you’d like to join one or visit PMQs.
Last Friday I visited Boeing’s distribution centre in Burgess Hill. It was wonderful to hear they’ve signed a new deal to grow and stay in the town. They already have 80 people working there and have vacancies. I’m delighted part of this huge global business is here and really thriving.
South East Water have launched their latest Community Fund of £50,000. Local charities can apply for a grant of up to £2,000. It follows the issues last December which as an MP’s office we were very engaged in assisting with the impact on their services due to the weather. All the details are on my website.
Finally, from 25th April to 17th May millions of UK households will receive £301, the first of three cost of living payments totalling up to £900 for those eligible and on means-tested benefits. The £301 payment will be sent out automatically and directly to recipients, meaning those eligible do not need to apply or do anything to receive it. The payment reference for bank accounts will be DWP COL, along with the claimant’s National Insurance number. I’m proud to be the DWP Minister helping to deliver these key payments, benefitting those most in need alongside the almost £1 billion Household Support fund stage 4 for those in need of further assistance beyond this group.