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I was halfway through writing it when a resident got in touch.
They’d been bounced between services without getting any answers or solutions.
Like so many, they felt trapped in another system that doesn’t work.
Growing up in run-down council housing, caring for two disabled parents, you learn very quickly what it’s like to be shoved aside, treated like second-class citizens.
That feeling becomes part of who you are from an early age so that when a resident comes to your door with concerns, you feel the same frustrations instinctively.
Like a lot of local people, they felt frustrated that things which should be so simple are made so bureaucratic.
That, basically, at the end of the day, nothing seems to work.
It’s vital to say this because nobody is going to believe anything an MP says otherwise.
And rightly, nobody is going to listen to me, an MP, unless they know Labour’s reforms and investments in our NHS and schools, policing and infrastructure, will actually tilt the scales back towards them.
I care.
And I’m keeping the promises I made to you before the election a year ago.
I hold regular surgery appointments, so we can fix your issues together and I can be on your side.
I knock on doors every week, so I can pick up issues and you can tell me what you think in your own words on the safety of your own doorstep.
I know all year round, not when an election is on, because politicians shouldn’t be talking to residents just to win votes.
I reply to emails as quickly as possible and I try to be visible, so you know everything I’m doing is always on your behalf.
I promised an office at the heart of the constituency, and you couldn’t miss us on Boscombe high street!
My team is made up of local people who work flat-out to help because they care.
Being a different type of MP – the kind you want – gets you better results.
I’ve not taken a single overseas trip as your MP — there’s too much to put right in Bournemouth and it needs all of my time.
I spend most of my week at home, because I can’t represent you and get organisations to fix things if London sucks me in.
My priorities are your priorities: a lift at Pokesdown Station, better playgrounds, securing money for potholes and graffiti, bringing down NHS waiting times, putting police on our streets, ending anti-social behaviour and illegal e-scooters.
I recently opposed sudden paid parking plans by the council because, let’s face it, they were crazy and out-of-touch.
Politics should be about listening, understanding, and getting things done.
I’m happy to take on anybody to get what you’re entitled to, and that includes my own party.
Last week I promised constituents I would oppose measures unless government changed them.
I secured changes and ensured you were heard at the highest levels.
