Since I was first elected in 2005 I have corresponded with over 16,500 constituents on a wide range of topics such as housing and healthcare to national government policies.
In addition to regular surgeries that I hold at my constituency offices, I hold surgeries out in the community at alternative venues. I have held surgeries in Fish and Chip shops, community centres, pubs, Waitrose, B&Q and Asda, Southend Adult Voluntary Services and café’s.
Venthams Accountants hosted a business breakfast surgery for some of their clients for me in February. The surgery was held in their offices in Rochford and this was an opportunity to speak with local business owners on a wide range of issues including NHS reform, education, bank lending and the national economic situation which affects businesses locally.
In order for me to be able to effectively represent my constituents in Parliament it is imperative that I am in well informed of the issues locally and hosting surgeries in the community are invaluable as they enable me to do just that.
I am hosting my next out and about surgery at The Big Society Shop on Hamlet Court Road on Friday 9th March from 10.30am until 12 noon. I am pleased to confirm that also attending this surgery will be the local ward councillors. If you would like to come along and have an informal chat please do come along, there is no appointment necessary.