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Tackling the scourge of Violence Against Women and Girls requires a united front. Yesterday, I was proud to bring together fantastic local organisations from across Tooting for a vital roundtable discussion on this very issue. Real, lasting change cannot be imposed from the top down. It must be built from the ground up, in partnership with those who understand the challenges best. Listening to the expertise of these local groups, it is clear that co-creating innovative solutions within our community is the only way forward. Their insights are indispensable in shaping strategies that will truly work for local people.  The sun was shining across Balham this afternoon, and it was fantastic to be out on the doorsteps speaking with residents. It was especially heartening to hear so much positive feedback about our local Wandsworth Labour council's hard work. So many people raised the decision to freeze council tax, keeping it at the lowest rate in the country. This practical support is making a real, tangible difference to household budgets. It shows what can be achieved when local government actively works for the people it represents. This is exactly what Labour in power delivers: meaningful action that eases the burden on local families. It’s a powerful demonstration of our commitment to putting our community first. 
Labour-run Wandsworth Council has decided to freeze Council Tax for a fourth consecutive year!
This decisive action means that local people will continue to pay the lowest Council Tax in the country, providing much-needed stability and relief. This freeze is a powerful example of Labour in power delivering tangible support for our communities. It shows a clear commitment to putting residents first, proving that the council and Wandsworth Labour are on your side.
The incredible team at Wandsworth Food Bank work tirelessly to support families across our community. Their work is a genuine lifeline, ensuring no one has to go without. Right now, with so many struggling to put food on the table, their service is more vital than ever. This Christmas, they have launched an appeal to help local families. Your generosity can make a world of difference. Please consider donating if you are able. Every contribution goes directly towards helping a neighbour in need and shows the very best of our community’s spirit. Donate here!   Today, I was thrilled to host local residents at my coffee morning.
Over tea, coffee, and biscuits, we openly discussed what makes our community special. We also focused on practical steps to make it even better for everyone in Tooting. It was inspiring to hear so many thoughtful contributions. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and shared their valuable views and ideas to improve our area.
This summer, I am offering young people in the local area a chance to shadow my team and I for a week in Parliament and my local office! If you, or anyone you know, live in the local area and are aged between 18 and 25 with an interest in politics, please fill out an application form here.  Recently, St George's Hospital announced that as many as 83 beds at the hospital are set to close. At a time when this new Labour Government is making progress on reducing the NHS waiting list, this feels as though it is a step in the wrong direction. Like many across our community, I share the deep concerns regarding this development.
In response to this news, I have written directly to Jacqueline Totterdell, Chief Executive of the St George's and Epsom and St Helier hospitals group, to raise my reservations, and I have raised a question directly to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care in Parliament. This question can be found online here. Rest assured, I will continue to monitor developments on this closely and I will always stand up for our NHS. Although there has been improvements to mail deliveries in Tooting, far too many people are still experiencing delays to their post. I met with posties and senior Royal Mail figures today to raise my concerns and find a solution that works for everyone. Royal Mail have agreed to make a concerted effort to reduce delays and ensure six-day service. I will be meeting with them again in a month's time to discuss what progress has been made.  |
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