It was a delight to see a dozen Cumbrians recognised in the King’s New Year Honours List for their service to communities in Cumbria and beyond.
The List recognises the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK. Unsung heroes in every community. The List ensures that people from underrepresented communities and a wide variety of types of work are rewarded, to celebrate the fantastic contribution of people throughout the country.
I was pleased to see several names from here in West Cumbria awarded. Dr Amanda Jean Carson, from Seascale, will receive an MBE for her outstanding work over decades protecting our Herdwicks and other rare breeds of sheep. While BEMs were awarded to four other inspirational local community leaders – Dr Christopher Jeremy Ayling, David Davidson, Stuart McCourt and Chris Young. My heartfelt congratulations go to all of them.
I’m lucky in this job to come across such unsung heroes almost every day. Too many to name here. I do, however, want to single out for praise this week those who stepped up to support those affected by the suspected gas explosion on Hugh Street last week.
From all of the council and emergency services personnel who went above and beyond, to those local residents who went out of their way to support their neighbours in their hour of most need. Brave local veterans John Dunleavey and Darren Parsley, who ran into the fire to rescue people. And Matthew Stephenson and Sarah Buchanan, who set up fundraisers which have raised thousands of pounds for those affected.
I am available for anyone affected if there is anything I can do to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact my office.
Speaking of unsung heroes, our brilliant carers and NHS staff were given a boost this week as the Government made two major announcements – significant new funding and major reforms to transform adult social care services and a plan to end NHS waiting list backlogs through millions more appointments.
An extra £652,033 for Cumberland Council to spend on Disabled Facilities Grants will enable more older and disabled people to live independently in their own homes. And care workers across West Cumbria will be better supported to take on further duties to deliver health interventions, such as blood pressure checks, meaning people can receive more routine checks and care at home without needing to travel to healthcare settings. The national career structure for care staff will also be expanded, ensuring there are opportunities for career progression and development pathways.
On waiting lists, the reforms announced this week will deliver up to half a million more appointments a year and help to achieve the government’s promise that 92% of patients waiting for planned treatment will receive it within 18 weeks by the end of this Parliament. Under the Tories, more than 40% of patients are waiting far longer.
This Government promised change and that is what I am fighting every day to deliver.
Josh MacAlister MP 