Monday September 22nd: In the morning I'm pleased to launch Central Sussex College's new partnership with Crawley Library coinciding with the week's Freshers' Fair and opening of new student social and study spaces. Then in the afternoon I meet with the Crawley District Commander of Sussex Police. Crime is down from 2010 by 14% but more to do so our community feels safe.
Tuesday September 23rd: I speak locally to welcome West Sussex County Council's consultation on more school places for Crawley – I encourage local residents to express their views.
Wednesday September 24th: Pleased to be supporting the launch of Mencap’s 'Hear My Voice' campaign in Parliament. It's vital that the views of people with learning disabilities, and their families, are heard in the run-up to next year’s General Election, and beyond. In the 2000s when I was chair of the West Sussex Learning Disabilities Partnership Board our aim was to try to better address the needs of individuals and their families, so it's a natural for me that this work is built on to help ensure people with learning disabilities are listened to and respected through manifestos and policy development.
Thursday September 25th: Attend Sussex Community NHS Trust's AGM, at The Hawth, Crawley where local nursing numbers are being increased by the body. Then on to the Groundwork Community Food Festival at The Walled Garden, Tilgate Park. Some great Sussex produce - bought a delicious horseradish mustard!
In the evening I speak at the inaugural Manor Royal Business Improvement District AGM - already a broadband upgrade and Crawter's Brook peoples' park delivered.
Friday September 26th: Visit volunteers and clinical staff at the Crawley Hospital Sexual Health Centre and members of the Crawley HIV Support Group. Raising awareness and education to combat complacency and stigmatisation still has a way to go locally.
Then up to Parliament for the recall debate on joining the coalition against ISIL in Iraq. Difficult but necessary as part of wider measures to tackle evil extremism which threatens the Middle East, World and our home security.
Saturday September 27th: Honoured to officially open the Vincent Martin Dance & Musical Theatre School at Langley Green in the morning, then on to Sainsbury’s West Green store to meet staff and ‘help’ them serve behind the deli counter. I finish the day pulling raffle tickets at the wonderful community event at the St Nicholas Church Open Day in Worth.
Sunday September 28th: Live BBC Sunday Politics interview – I took my kids with me so they could see behind the scenes at the studio!