OPINION: Ripon MP shows support for local sport, business and schools
April has been another busy month, both here in Ripon and Nidderdale and for my work in Parliament.
It was great to visit Bordar House Teas in Masham and meet owner Catherine Scott Paul and her daughter Lucy. Catherine founded the café over 40 years ago and has grown it into a thriving family business. Alongside Lucy, she remains closely involved in the day‑to‑day running. Businesses like Bordar House Teas play a vital role in supporting jobs, strengthening communities and welcoming visitors to our rural area.
In Glasshouses, I visited the local primary school, where I spoke to pupils about my work as an MP and congratulated them on their successful campaign to reduce the speed limit outside the school. Following this, I met Ken Hainsworth, who has dedicated more than 60 years to Glasshouses Cricket Club. Like many village clubs, Glasshouses has struggled to field a team as lifestyles change and costs rise.
I believe it’s important we do more to support local sport, as it brings people together and keeps communities strong.
In Ripon, I met with Community First Yorkshire, an organisation that supports voluntary and community groups across our county. As public services remain under pressure, the voluntary sector is playing an increasingly important role, especially for older residents and those needing extra support. I will continue to back their work and make the case for better support for community organisations.
Alongside constituency work, I continue to raise local issues in Parliament.
I have raised concerns about the rise in the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits across the constituency. Behind the statistics are real people and families, and it’s vital that support, training and job opportunities are available locally for those who need them.
Guide Dogs UK held a drop‑in event in Westminster, where I met children and young people with vision impairments. They shared their real experiences of the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system and explained what needs to change so every child can get the support they deserve. I’m grateful to Guide Dogs for giving them a platform.
I have co‑signed a letter with Tom Gordon MP on hospice funding in North Yorkshire. Despite a small funding uplift, rising costs have left a significant shortfall, putting vital services such as inpatient beds at risk.
We have asked the Care Minister to support a one‑off payment while longer‑term funding is reviewed. I am also pressing for better access to care, including a 24/7 advice line so patients and families can get expert help at any time of day.
Finally, following several votes in Parliament, I welcome that the Government has now agreed to introduce restrictions on social media for under‑16s and ban smartphones in schools. Many parents, students and schools have raised concerns with me about these issues, and I look forward to scrutinising the Government’s proposals in more detail following these commitments.
As always, if you need my help or you would like to raise an issue, please do get in touch.