People often ask what an MP actually does, and the truth is the role has many different parts. No two weeks are ever the same.
A significant part of my job has to be spent in Westminster. That is where laws are debated and voted on, where I speak up for Fylde in Parliament, challenge Ministers, and make sure our area’s priorities are heard at the heart of Government. Being present in Westminster really does matter. If you are not in the room, you cannot influence decisions or vote on issues that directly affect people back home.
That said, my favourite part of the week is always when I am back home in Fylde, out and about, meeting residents and listening to what matters most locally.
Friday mornings usually begins with a street surgery. Rather than asking people to come to an office, my team and I head out into our communities, knocking on doors and talking to residents where they live. Some might call it old fashioned, but I am a firm believer that there is no substitute for getting out there and having proper conversations face to face.
It is often on the doorstep that you hear things you would not otherwise pick up. Concerns about crime, frustrations with local services, worries about family members, or ideas for improving an area. Those conversations shape the work I do both locally and in Westminster.
Recent Fridays have included a visit to St Pauls Church in Fairhaven, where it was a pleasure to catch up with the Rev Paul Bye and members of the congregation. Churches like St Pauls play a vital role in our communities, far beyond Sunday services.
I was especially pleased to meet some of the volunteers who run the Lunch Club and the Poppies Group, promoting activities and social connection for older people. These groups make a real difference by tackling loneliness and bringing people together. So it was lovely to be able to thank them for the work they do to support the community across Ansdell and Fairhaven.
Later that same Friday, I met with local police officers in St Annes to discuss issues affecting the area. We talked about tackling anti social behaviour, which I know remains a concern for many residents and businesses.
We also discussed the introduction of a new radio system for local shops, helping them work together to deal with shoplifting and anti social behaviour, as well as plans for improved CCTV across Fylde which I’m working on with Fylde Council and Lancashire police. Keeping our town centres safe and welcoming is essential for residents, visitors and local businesses alike.
I also met with around 20 local care providers to hear directly about the challenges they are facing. We discussed issues with Lancashire County Council and how Government reforms are affecting their ability to provide care across Lancashire. There were plenty of issues for me to take away, and questions that need to be asked of both the Council and Government Ministers.
And after a full Friday out and about across Fylde, it is always good to get home to Mrs Snowden and Walter and enjoy some proper family time. Those quieter moments at the end of a busy week are important, and they are a reminder of why the work matters in the first place. Representing Fylde is a privilege, and staying grounded at home helps keep my focus firmly on the people and communities I am here to serve.
