PM, Pick, Plant & Pizza
On Friday the 5th June I welcomed the Prime Minister to Swindon to meet some of the new apprentices at STARK and hear of their work firsthand. I’m really pleased that the government is taking apprenticeships seriously as an alternative to a university education and that partners in the drone space are supporting young people from Swindon in this way.
The Prime Minister was clear with me that the investments this government are making to the defence budget by raising it to 2.6% of GDP must do more than just keep us safe, it has to provide opportunities for places like Swindon by bringing well paid jobs, and educational opportunities. As a nation we have to invest in our defence sector not only to protect ourselves and our allies but to bring in hope and opportunity for places that are so often left behind.
When I was elected in 2024, I recognised that I had to work tirelessly to bring back the manufacturing jobs we had lost as a town, I’d seen the impact the loss of Honda and other works had on people I knew and now represent. The closures were absolutely devastating, not just for those that worked there as individuals but also for their families and friends. I’ve held conversations I’ve had with people with me ever since and truly believe that the Swindon Drone Hub is an opportunity for us to bring in a brighter future for people who already have the skills they’d need to succeed in the industry, as well as a chance to expand the STEM offer in the town for the next generation. I will continue to work toward this aim and growing the offer for the people of Swindon North.
I also recently joined the Pick, Plant and Pizza event hosted in Penhill, during which I took part in the litter-pick and was able to have some really valuable conversations with members of the community. Seeing the difference that only a few people can make in a short space on time was truly inspiring and reminded why I got involved in politics in the first place.
As well as this, I was proud to announce that Charlotte Beckhurst, Headteacher at Swindon Academy, has taken up the role of Chair for the Pride in Penhill programme. She will listen to the community and work to deliver the changes that local people want to see.
I would encourage anyone who wants to help her to make an enormous difference to Penhill, apply for the Neighbourhood Board. A seat on this board will place you at the heart of deciding how the £20m for Penhill will be spent and shape its 10-year vision. If you are interest, please go to Let’s Talk Swindon page or https://letstalk.swindon.gov.uk/pride-in-place-penhill
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