Author Archives: joshmacmp

Twenty-two months ago, people in West Cumbria voted for change. Not slogans, not sticking plasters, but a serious government prepared to roll up its sleeves and begin the hard work of rebuilding our country. As we reach the end of this first Parliamentary session, it’s right to take stock – honestly, not complacently – ofContinue reading “Weekly Column – 06.05.2026 – Lots done, lots to do”

Thousands of renters across West Cumbria will benefit from the biggest strengthening of renters’ rights in over 40 years, as the Government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Act comes into force. Across our area these changes will bring greater security and stability to local families who rent their homes. The new law delivers long-awaited reforms to makeContinue reading “Josh MacAlister MP welcomes stronger renters’ rights for West Cumbria”

Disabled people across West Cumbria can now try work without the fear of immediately losing their benefits, as new legislation came into force this month. The “Right to Try” reform means that people receiving support such as Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, or the health element of Universal Credit can take steps intoContinue reading “Barriers to work lifted for disabled people across West Cumbria as ‘Right to Try’ law comes into force”

At the start of this month, households across West Cumbria saw bills fall through the new energy price cap – saving the average family over £100. Alongside that, targeted support for heating oil users is now being rolled out locally, helping around 1,000 households. But events in the Middle East continue to drive uncertainty inContinue reading “Weekly Column – 29.04.2026 – Securing Britain’s energy future”

Cumbrian farmers are set to play a leading role in shaping the future of England’s uplands, following the publication of a major government-backed review calling for a reset in how farming, nature and rural communities are supported. The report, “Towards a Flourishing Uplands – Phase 1”, highlights the critical importance of areas like Cumbria forContinue reading “Cumbrian farmers at heart of new plan to secure future of uplands”

A remarkable young fundraiser from West Cumbria was given a once-in-a-lifetime experience after being invited to a St. George’s Day reception at 10 Downing Street. Ten-year-old Frankie McMillan attended the event as a guest of local MP Josh MacAlister, alongside his mum Basia, who is a member of Wasdale Mountain Rescue. The reception, hosted byContinue reading “Young West Cumbrian climber meets PM at St George’s Day reception”

Families across West Cumbria have told me, time and again, that the system meant to support children with special educational needs and disabilities simply isn’t working as it should. Long waits, complex processes, and a constant battle to secure the right support have left too many parents feeling exhausted and unheard. That’s why the GovernmentContinue reading “Weekly Column – 22.04.2026 – Improving access to SEND support”

Josh MacAlister MP has officially opened a new free breakfast club at Northside Primary School, Workington, helping local families with the cost of living while giving children the best possible start to their day. The club – the fifth to launch in West Cumbria since last year – is part of Labour’s national rollout ofContinue reading “MP opens new free breakfast club in Workington”

Children and families across West Cumbria are set to benefit from a major new investment in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support, as Cumberland Council receives £1.87 million to roll out a new “Experts at Hand” service. The funding is part of a £429 million national programme to transform support for children with SEND,Continue reading “£1.87 million boost for Cumberland to deliver new SEND support for local children”

Josh MacAlister has praised the incredible impact of the Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project after attending its 30th anniversary celebration in Whitehaven. The event marked three decades of dedicated support for young people in Whitehaven, bringing together volunteers, families, and local supporters to celebrate the organisation’s achievements. The day featured a community bake sale and aContinue reading “Local MP celebrates 30 years of Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project”