On Friday 15th March, I welcomed over 35 constituents to my fifth ‘Super Surgery’, in St Margaret’s Church Hall in Southend. During a normal Friday or Monday surgery, I would normally see up to seven constituents who had pre-booked an appointment with me in advance.
I like to think of a Super Surgery as a one-stop-shop for my constituents who have questions or problems, a place where they can turn up, speak to a member of my team and then be directed immediately to whichever agency, authority or charity can help them best, without having to wait for an appointment.
On Friday in St Margaret's Church Hall, we had teams from the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Welcome to the UK, Essex Police, Southend City Council Housing Services, the local council, and there was free legal advice courtesy of Paul Robinson Solicitors. All of these external agencies and charities are those that I would normally write or refer constituents on to.
Of course I and my brilliant constituency team were also on hand to meet privately with constituents and offer further help and advice on the more complex issues. I was delighted that Frances Neil and Debbie Dalton from the WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) campaign group came along for a private meeting on next steps to ensure that more women aren’t left behind by changes to the state pension.
Twenty-seven people were booked in for face-to-face help with issues regarding benefits and pensions, asylum & deportation, child health and special needs education, parking, housing, trading standards, blocked drains, drug dealers and dog fouling. In the end, more than 35 constituents attended to receive immediate help and advice.
I am the only MP in Parliament to hold regular Super Surgeries and was pleased by the success of this, my fifth session. Plans are in progress for Super Surgery number six so please keep an eye on my website and social media if you'd like to book in.
