James Naish MP writes a monthly update for Rushcliffe constituents.
James writes:
‘It’s been a bit of a whirlwind for me since then. Most of the past year for me has been a very practical one – finishing my previous commitments; recruiting a team to support me; finding an office; observing how parliament works; and opening over 7,000 cases from constituents. I’ve also done my best to meet as many local organisations, schools and constituents as possible, as reflected on social media.
‘I’m pleased, however, that things are definitely settling down. Over the past few weeks, I’ve launched several tools to help Rushcliffe residents stay informed about my work including an updated website www.jamesnaish.com and a weekly newsletter which you can sign-up to on my website. My social media platforms and website will feature regular updates from parliament and across the constituency.
‘I’ll also be writing regular columns in westbridgfordwire.com and releasing specific stories and positive announcements relating to Rushcliffe.
OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH EUROPE
‘One of the big areas of focus in Westminster over the past few days has been foreign affairs and, specifically, the UK’s future relationship with Europe.
‘As your MP, I’ve been working cross-party to strengthen ties with our nearest neighbours because, in my view, there is no ideological reason strong enough to justify preventing the UK from forging a stronger, more pragmatic and more cooperative relationship with the European Union, one that prioritises economic growth, tries to lower bills and creates a future that works for young people.
‘I have spoken several times in parliament about the need to make lives easier for small businesses, exporters and professionals, and I’ll keep pushing for pragmatic, practical solutions that benefit all of us.
NHS INVESTMENT
‘Closer to home, I’ve been pleased to see good news about NHS performance including that waiting lists have fallen by 200,000 and over 3 million extra appointments have been created. The NHS App has also been upgraded with new features, making it easier to manage appointments, to access medical records and to order repeat prescriptions from your phone.
‘With NHS services under huge pressure, it’s important we make better use of digital tools to cut waiting times and to help patients take more control of their care – which will, in turn, reduce pressure on face-to-face and telephone channels for those who need this type of support.
ACCESS TO DENTISTRY
‘This month also saw progress on a longstanding concern for many local residents: access to NHS dentistry.
‘In addition to ongoing conversations with ministers and NHS England to ensure that Nottinghamshire sees its fair share of 700,000 extra emergency appointments this year, I welcomed the expansion of Buttercross View Dental Practice in Bingham which is operated by two Rushcliffe residents.
‘The Practice will soon be able to offer more appointments every year, including – we hope – to NHS patients as new funding is announced. It’s a step in the right direction and I wish the Sharmas the very best for their expanded operation.
MATERNITY SERVICES IN NOTTINGHAM
‘Meanwhile, I’ve continued to support families affected by maternity failings at Nottingham University Hospitals (NUH). The end of May marks the closure of new submissions to the independent inquiry led by Donna Ockenden which has already heard from more than 2,000 families including many from Rushcliffe.
‘I have met several times with local campaigners to hear their experiences, and will keep working with my fellow Nottinghamshire MPs to secure lasting improvements including safer staffing levels and greater accountability. We must learn from these tragedies and ensure they are never repeated.
CHEAPER ENERGY BILLS
‘On a more positive note, there was cause for celebration in schools and hospitals this month thanks to major clean energy investment. Pierrepont Gamston Primary School in Rushcliffe and Nottingham University Hospitals are among the sites receiving funding to reduce carbon emissions through a range of measures including heat pumps, solar panels and energy-efficient lighting. These improvements will lower energy bills, cut emissions and create healthier environments for students, staff and patients.
OUT AND ABOUT ACROSS RUSHCLIFFE
‘In Rushcliffe itself, I’ve been engaging with a wide range of local groups and made several representations on their behalf. I’ve written to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), for example, to raise concerns about long waiting times which are frustrating many learners and instructors alike. I’ll be meeting the DVSA in June to push for a fairer, faster system for Rushcliffe learners.
‘I also, recently met with The Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies), a small independent registered charity working throughout the UK to address attitudes and behaviours towards farmer safety and mental health.
‘And potentially most excitingly, I’ve persuaded The Football Association to give me four tickets to pass onto two lucky local pupils to mark the men’s England football team playing at The City Ground for the first time in many years! You can find out more here.
GET IN TOUCH
‘I’m determined to be a visible, active MP who stands up for all parts of our diverse constituency. If there’s something that I can help with, please get in touch via my website or via email (james.naish.mp@parliament.uk). I have in-person constituency surgeries every week and while they tend to get booked-up 4 to 6 weeks in advance, my team will always do their best to be as flexible as possible.’
