Ten Tors and Jubilee Challenge
Congratulations to all the schools, colleges, scouts and cadets who took part in this year' Ten Tors and Jubilee Challenge across Dartmoor. I have witnessed the blisters, the sunstroke, the soaked kit and struggled to lift the packs that the teams carry across the moor over 2 gruelling days.
My special thanks to the many volunteers who give up countless weekends to make this such a life changing experience.
Community Hospitals Association Annual Conference, Leicester
I attended the CHA annual conference to speak about the importance of community hospitals and the vital role they play not only in rural areas like the South Hams but also in Torbay. We all know how much communities value the opportunity to be treated closer to home and the role that these community hospitals can play in helping to avoid admissions to larger more distant hospitals. It is important that local people and clinicians champion their cause within commissioning groups but I will also be doing what I can at Westminster to make sure that they can develop and improve services for patients. If you would like to let me know about your experience of our local hospitals please get in touch.
Kilns at Brixham
These kilns are part of Brixham's industrial heritage and are unique in the South West, because they are built at right angles; most twin kilns were built side by side. Unfortunately proposed plans to widen the road have put the future of these kilns under threat.
Shoalstone Pool
Shoalstone Pool is a gem on Brixham's sea front, built in 1896 and the focal point for the community during the summer. It is also a much loved tourist attraction and manned by a dedicated team of volunteers. I hope Torbay Council will allow sufficient funds to keep it going for the summer season to allow the volunteers time to develop a more stable long term funding.
Action on Hearing Loss
Today I met with Stephanie Bromley, Ted Leverton, and John Rickett, Information and Outreach volunteers for Action on Hearing Loss together with Karen Squire, Senior Community Support Officer to discuss the impact of hearing loss. There is a particular concern about inadequate training for care assistants working in residential and nursing homes. Residents and carers alike, desperately need better support for using and maintaining hearing aids and skills for lip reading. Volunteers from Action on Hearing Loss are keen to help, and on their website you are able to check your hearing
Brixham Open Meeting
Thank you to everyone who came to the public meeting at the Berry Head Hotel in Brixham to discuss a range of local and national issues, in particular the concern of many people for Shoalstone Pool. I hope to be back to see the Pool on Tuesday 8th May at 10.30 am. Please join me there to show your support.
View from Berry Head Hotel
Baltic Wharf
It was fascinating to visit Baltic Wharf and to see such a thriving boat yard employing between 150-200 people. I was shown the restoration work to the Lady Cable, Dunkirk war veteran and numerour other projects. During the redevelopment, it will be vital to retain this flourishing boat yard as part of Totnes's heritage and to maintain so many high skilled jobs for the town.
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery in Totnes; if you would like an appointment to discuss your concerns, please ring 01803 868378
Totnes Museum
Congratulation to Richard and all the volunteers at the Totnes Museum on reuniting the Lee rings after 400 years
Heron Valley Cider
It was fascinating to meet Tasha, from Heron Valley Cider to learn about the organic natural alchemy that goes to producing real cider and of course to see how it is actually produced in this beautiful Devon valley near Loddiswell.
Photograph by kind permission of Simon Jenkinson of PanOpti
Surgery and Open Meeting at Hookhills
Thank you to Hookhills and Broadsands Park Community Centre for holding an Advice Surgery at their premises. If you would like to meet to discuss your concerns at one of my surgeries around the constituency please telephone 01803 868378.
The surgery was followed by an Open Meeting and some of the issues discussed were school dinners, VAT and the South Devon Link Road which is due to open in December 2015.
Littlehempston Cycle Path
It was good to meet with Devon County Council and the many representatives from the community to talk about Littlehempston Cycle Path.
Staverton Leat
Thank you to Ann and Nigel Amherst for taking the time to demonstrate the changes that have so badly affected the beautiful Staverton Leat . I was very concerned to hear from local residents about the serious effects Environment Agency's decision to reduce the flow has had on plant and animal wildlife. I am relieved that Mr Brogden from the Environment Agency attended the meeting to listen to the concerns and I will be following this issue up on my return to Parliament.
Quartzlock
I was fascinated to meet with Clive Green and the team at Quartzlock to discuss improving technical skills and education and to see what this local business is achieving by improving the accuracy of GPS.
National Association of LINks Members
I met with Ellie Pang who is a member of NALM ( National Association of LINks Members) to discuss how local Healthwatch could operate in order to best represent the public's views on health and wellbeing boards and in working with the CQC.
Women’s Health Facility at Torbay Hospital.
I was delighted to join Paula Vasco-Knight, the Chief Executive of Torbay Hospital and Debbie Stark, Director of Public Health to open the new Women's Health Facility at Torbay Hospital. The enthusiasm of the staff for their new facilities was very clear. Congratulations to all the team for achieving such a transformation.
I was delighted to be able to catch up with Debbie Stark the Director of Public Health following the opening to discuss a range of public health issues within the Bay.
South Hams Citizen Advice Bureau
Thank you to Nick Dilworth from South Hams CAB for coming in to discuss the ongoing pressure on the Tribunal Service. The CAB is looking forward to moving to a larger site at Follaton House and has benefitted from extra funding from the Ministry of Justice, but I would like to see greater recognition of the work that the CAB contributes on behalf of clients attending tribunals as well as greater use of their skills within the work programme.
Totnes Community Hospital
I was delighted to revisit Totnes Community Hospital with Steve Collings who is the joint Matron for Tavistock and Totnes Community Hospitals. It was good to see the hospital so well used and going from strength to strength.
National Apprenticeship Services
I am grateful to Fiona Parsons for her update on the National Apprenticeship Service. 700 apprentices were taken on in 2010/11 in the Totnes constituency but the service is keen to attract new employers and increase the number of apprentices being taken up by those under 24 . Any employers interested in finding out how they can take advantage of this scheme and in particular those who have not previously employed an apprentice can contact Fiona direct at Fiona.parsons@lsc.gov.uk
Dartmouth Surgery
I met with constituents today at Dartmouth Guildhall to discuss their concerns on local and national issues. If you would like an appointment please telephone 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Dartmouth Hospital
I enjoyed catching up with Tracey Cunningham and the team at Dartmouth Hospital. I would challenge any hospital to have a better view from its day room!
Respect the Aged Breakfast
Thanks to Kate and Peter Ryder for hosting this tremendous event at Alf Resco , it was a great opportunity to
meet local octogenarians in the relaxed and friendly environment of Alfs.
Hoodown Workshops
What a pleasure to open the Hoodown workshops for Dart Harbour and to catch up with Rob Giles, Neil Hockaday and their exceptional team from the harbour board. Hoodown will now be able to maintain the 330 pontoons on the Dart as well as their many other maintenance tasks and provide more employment opportunities locally.
Totnes Surgery
If you wish to make an appointment to see me at one of my surgeries, please ring 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Victim Support
It was fascinating to hear about the range of services provided by the staff and volunteers at victim support. Not just to individuals who have been affected by crime but also in the witness service to courts. I heard that they would also like to be able to provide a more formal support to police witnesses, who may sometimes struggle especially when new to this aspect of their role.
Victim support are always keen to hear from anyone interested in becoming a volunteer; they provide full training and the opportunity to work with an enthusiastic committed team.
Devon Drugs Services
I met with Michelle Rowan, service director at the Devon Drugs Service to discuss the change from a maintenance to a recovery focused agenda and meet with service users to hear about their views and the long term stigma many face even after they have turned their lives around.
From the service perspective I heard the view that they would prefer funding to come from national rather than local budgets.
Totnes Surgery
It is good to be back in Devon. I try to hold surgeries in a number of locations around the constituency but as Totnes is the most central more people opt to come here than anywhere else. If you would like me to hold a constituency surgery or an open meeting in your village hall or other local venue please get in touch; 01803 868378 or nina.smith@parliament.uk
South Devon College
It is always a pleasure to visit South Devon College. Today I met students studying for level 2 and
3 courses on children and young people and levels 1 through to foundation degrees in health and social care for a discussion about the Health and Social Care Act, training and regulation for Health Care Assistants and expanding the Assistant Practitioner role.
Devon & Cornwall Police
I met with Superintendent Glen Mayhew, Devon and Cornwall Police to discuss local policing issues. It is helpful to be able to raise issues on behalf of individuals and hear about local policing issues.
Alcohol Strategy
This was an especially busy day following the release of the Alcohol Strategy with many opportunities to welcome this ground breaking and far reaching strategy to tackle the violent crime, antisocial behaviour and disease associated with problem drinking.
South Devon Marine
I am grateful to Robin East for organising a meeting with South Devon Marine representatives from across Torbay and South Devon to discuss the challenges facing our marine industries.
In the South West alone there are more than 2700 marine dependent companies which turnover around £1.3bn per year.
Issues raised included the impact of high and unpredictable fuel costs, bureaucracy and additional costs relating to the need for an increasing number of licences.
Disability Focus
I was delighted to open the new premises for Disability Focus at Dartington. This charity has grown to support 700 disabled people and their carers in managing their direct payments. I was able to meet Disability Focus' first client, still singing their praises and enthusiastic about the independence that managing her own budget had given her. The ability to employ a personal assistant can be greatly valued especially where charities like Disability Focus help to manage the complexities of becoming an employer.
Congratulations to Victoria Conway, Derek Knowles and all of the dedicated team of staff and volunteers
St John's Primary School
A wonderful start to the day to join parents & volunteers at St John's Primary School, Bridgetown for the opening of the new school library. Thanks to Rotary for their support for this project and to all the volunteers who do so much for the school.
On a beautiful day it was great to see the children enjoying their 'exciting writing' outside in the sunshine and to tour the school with their enthusiastic headmaster, Andrew Squire.
Healthwatch
It was wonderful to see so many people from across the Bay at the Riviera Centre for the conference to discuss how local Healthwatch will shape the future of healthcare in Torbay. If you are a patient or carer and wish to get involved contact Pat on 01803 295277 or email torbaylink@makesachange.org.uk.
Healthwatch will be taking over from LINks and will be able to influence how services are designed and provided, they will also be able to inspect hospitals and care homes where concerns have been raised.
Meeting with the local Postmasters
I met with many local sub postmasters at Galmpton to discuss the issues facing our vitally important Post Offices with the proposals for changing to post office locals. This model could make it very difficult to attract new people into the service of their communities once existing sub postmasters retire or resign.
Galmpton Open Meeting
Thanks to everyone who came to Galmpton for a wide ranging and fascinating discussion including localism, planning, the Health Bill, gay marriage and International Aid. It was great to see so many people prepared to turn out on a sunny afternoon to discuss National and local political issues.
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery at Totnes. If you would like an appointment to discuss your concerns, please telephone 01803 868378 to arrange a suitable time.
Dementia Awareness Day
I visited Harberton to meet with the Devon Senior Voice and representatives across the County on Dementia Awareness Day to discuss how the Health and Social Care Bill could improve opportunities for influencing how care is delivered to those with dementia.
Devon Community Hospitals Leagues of Friends
Our Community hospitals are immensely valued and it was a great pleasure to speak at the AGM of 
the Leagues of Friends. Their volunteers raise hundreds of thousands for equipment, building work and improving comforts for patients.
We were able to discuss the Health & Social Care Bill and the issues facing community hospitals.
Open Meeting
Thurlestone Parish Hall Open Public Meeting. Thank you to Thurlestone for hosting this open meeting which was very well attended for wide ranging discussions on the Health Bill, cancer diagnosis, the economy and many local issues.
All Saints Primary School
Meeting with head, Phillip Medway and ICT lead Richard Haysom after a tour of this lovely Church of England Primary School. To see both an 18th century bible on display and the children enjoying a 21st century bible cartoon brought home the way that faith can play a part in school life alongside an exciting curriculum in beautiful surroundings.
Schools like this are however under great pressure from the funding formula which disadvantages Devon's schools.
Devon Life
I enjoyed catching up with Trudy Turrel from Devon Life over a coffee at Harbour House.
Kingsbridge Community College
Meeting with headmaster, Roger Pope to discuss school funding and other issues then a Question and Answer session with the sixth form on a wide range of topical national and local issues.
It was then a great pleasure to be included in the cheques presentation by Sport England for improvements to the school's all weather facilities to allow greater use by local people and pupils alike.
Kingsbridge Surgery
A chance to meet and discuss a range of issues on a one to one basis at my Advice Surgery.
Saltstone Caring
Thank you to all the staff and volunteers at Saltstone Caring for all that you do to support people in the South Hams, helping to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and reducing loneliness.
Saltstone would like to take on an even greater role and are looking to work with local health teams to see how they can do more to help maintain independence for people in their own homes.
Harberton Cricket Club
It was wonderful to join Sport England for the presentation of a cheque for £46,155 from the Places People Play Olympic legacy fund to Harberton Cricket Club. The photo speaks volumes about the enthusiasm and drive of everyone involved with this club.
Kingswear Village Hall
An opportunity to discuss the NHS reforms and other topical issues in the lovely surroundings of Kingswear Village Hall
Always Be Cycling
Always Be Cycling at South Devon Steiner School, this is a great opportunity to dust off your bicycle and get it into condition for the Spring. Not only can Always be Cycling book you an appointment online but they can help with cycle training.
Torbay Care Trust
Meeting at Torbay Town Hall with the Torbay Care Trust to discuss the Health and Social Care Bill and the continuing goal to integrate services across Torbay. Torbay has achieved National acclaim for the way that it has joined up health and social care; this is now being rolled out to include other parts of South Devon.
I also attended a meeting for an update on the progress with the South Devon Link Road; we can look forward to work on the ground in October.
Brixham Does Care
I met today with Brixham Does Care, a local charity that offers support to people of all ages; a befriending charity which attempts to combat loneliness, isolation and despair. This was an opportunity to meet many who have benefited from their support and to hear how they now have a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery at Totnes; if you wish to meet me to discuss your concerns please telephone 01803 868378 for an appointment. I have surgeries at various locations throughout the constituency.
Townstal Open Meeting
Thank you to Townstal Community Hall and Townstal Community Partnership for inviting me to attend an Open Meeting. I was joined by Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, Dr Greatorex from the NHS Primary Care Trust and PC Nick Hill from the Dartmouth Police and answered questions on a diverse number of subjects.
Salcombe Youth Hostel
I am grateful to Caroline White, Chief Executive of the Youth Hostel Association and Ben Atwell, who manages the local area, for showing me around the stunning Youth Hostel at Salcombe. Located at Overbecks and with the best views in Salcombe, I was pleased to hear that you can book for bed and a meal for just £30 for a family of four per night. Gone are the days when staying at a youth hostel used to mean helping with the chores and cold showers but it still retains its community atmosphere. The YHA is now helping with accommodation for the National Citizen Service which will hopefully help to introduce another generation to the joys of youth hostelling. If you would like to book a stay at any youth hostel you can now do so online, well worth a look and definitely worth the climb. Now that I am 50 I was relieved to hear that you don't even have to be a youth, just young at heart.
Slapton Line
I enjoyed my visit to Slapton Ley Field Studies Centre to hear about the challenges facing the Slapton Line. The Ley has been constantly changing over the centuries and at some point, perhaps not for decades, the line may again be breached. There are no easy answers and those who own the line, the Whitley Wildlife Conservation trust, would not agree to concrete barriers or other so called 'hard' engineering or even 'soft' off shore engineering projects even if these could be funded. Supporting communities around the Slapton line and committing to early repair of any future manageable breach is however essential and I recognise the devastating impact on communities if that did not take place. In the meantime, the threat of rising sea levels is clear to anyone walking the line.
Salcombe Surgery
Thank you to Rev Daniel French for allowing me to use the upper rooms at Holy Trinity Church for one of my Advice Surgeries. When possible I like to hold surgeries in various locations around the constituency, so please telephone 01803 868378 if you would like an appointment.
Dartmouth Academy
I visited Dartmouth Academy today and I was impressed with the quality of art work. It is clear that the school is valuing its strong arts background whilst now pulling out all the stops to improve core academic achievements. Nicola Perrott, Director of Creative Learning writes,
"Art and Design training at Dartmouth Academy is a broad based education encompassing critical thought, creative endeavour, skills mastery and personal investment. We have long achieved outstanding results not only in Art & Design but also in Photography and Textile Design at GCSE and A Level standard. Schemes of learning encourage and support a broad cross curricular experience where students explore the intersection of subject areas that are apparently diverse. The experience allows students to break down barriers to learning and bring strengths and knowledge from one discipline into another, thus making coherent links between various modes and styles of learning. Recent collaborations have seen a multi media interactive exhibition on World War 2 bringing together Art & Design, Photography, English, History and Media Studies. Other collaborations have included visual maths journals, animated algebra and a great scheme of learning for year 8 based on Shakespeare's Tempest, which the students are studying in English. Rather than maintaining high standards we are constantly seeking ways for further improvement and development of our learners."
Apprentices at South Devon College
I visited South Devon College today as part of National Apprenticeship week. The Totnes Constituency has seen 700 new apprenticeships start last year which is an increase of 56%.
I met Dean Bowden and many of the apprentices from a variety of exciting courses . The number of apprentices could be even greater if more employers realised the benefits of taking on an apprentice.
Dean Bowden from South Devon College would be happy to talk to any employers considering offering to share their skills with an apprentice. The Government is delivering unprecedented funding for new apprenticeships. In addition, the Prime Minister has announced that from 7 February 2012, businesses and training providers can bid for a share of £6 million from the Higher Apprenticeship Fund, which will support the development of thousands of new Higher Apprenticeships in sectors including aerospace, energy and renewable technologies. Small and medium-sized businesses without any apprentices who hire one aged 16-24 are eligible for a £1,500 bonus, with up to 40,000 payments available and businesses can bid for a share of a £250 million fund to boost skills in their workplace, giving employers rather than training providers direct access to funding for training.
Holocaust Memorial Service
It was humbling to meet Berek and Marie Obuchowski, holocaust survivors, to hear their remarkable stories of survival. To hear first hand of Berek's time in the Lodz Ghetto, Aushwitz-Birkenau and the death march to Buchenwald brings home the need to stop these hate crimes ever happening again. Despite the lifelong pain of remembering, Berek works tirelessly to help others to understand why and how this happened. A truly remarkable couple and thanks to Brixham Baptist Church for organising the memorial service.
Surgeries
I hold surgeries at a variety of venues across the constituency, today there were two surgeries, one in
Totnes and one in Brixham. If you would like to meet to discuss local or national issues or need advice, please call 01803 868378 to make an appointment.
HMS Bulwark
Thank you to Captain Alex Burton and all the ship's company for making me so welcome aboard the Royal Naval Flagship, HMS Bulwark. This was a fascinating insight into the workings of this warship described by Captain Burton as the 'Swiss Army Knife' of the fleet. She is able to deliver the power of the Royal Marines by air and sea carrying over 250 marines with their vehicles and supplies as well as commanding and coordinating operations from on board the ship. As an island nation with 600 ports, around 300 offshore installations and an important fishing industry, we are absolutely dependent on the security of our seas. UK-based shipping contributes £10bn per year to GDP and needs protection both at home and abroad.
The crew are on 48 hours notice to be available to spearhead operations anywhere in the world which places a heavy responsibility on the crew to be in a constant state of readiness. I was impressed by their rigorous training programme and conviction that every crew member is essential to the smooth running of the ship, often trained for several roles.
HMS Bulwark has already demonstrated her role in humanitarian assistance and conflict prevention as well as promoting partnerships through joint exercises with the French Navy. None of this would be possible without the professionalism and dedication of the ship's company.
As a former 'air force baby' I particularly enjoyed visiting the landing platform although being more used to runways it looked like an impossibly small ...and moving target for a landing!
Bowden Farm
It was a pleasure to visit Bowden Farm near South Brent to meet Russell and Sandy Ashford and members of the Dartmoor Preservation Society and Commoners Association to hear about the problems facing hill farmers in South Devon. It is vital that when the Common Agricultural Policy is reviewed, the particular challenges facing hill farmers are recognised. At present they receive less in the way of subsidies despite working in the most challenging terrain and looking after so much in the way of open access countryside.
Without maintaining the delicate balance of grazing stock our moorland would rapidly become inaccessible and we can already see where this is happening in some parts of Dartmoor. Farmers need to have their environmental work fairly rewarded be that for South West Water or on behalf of everyone that enjoys the freedom of the moors.
Totnes Surgery
My regular advice surgeries are an opportunity for my constituents to come and see me in person to talk about any issues, political or personal, that you may be having difficulty with, please telephone 01803 868378 to make an appointment.
Health Select Committee visit to Torbay
I was pleased to welcome fellow members of the Health Select Committee to Torbay to see for themselves the groundbreaking achievements of the Torbay Care Trust, Baywide and Torbay Council in pooling their budgets and putting in place integrated health and social care. The ethos of having a single point of contact and plans in place to avoid unnecessary admissions to hospital together with arrangements to make sure that people can return home as soon as possible, have put Torbay ahead of so many other areas.
The Health Select Committee report into adult social care will be published on 8th February.
Transition Town Totnes
I met Rob Hopkins and Frances Northrop from Transition Town Totnes to discuss their new book, The Transition Companion, and the extraordinary progress of the Transition Movement both locally and nationally. The introduction to the Transition Companion asks the question, 'what would it look like if the best responses to peak oil and climate change came not from committees and Acts of Parliament, but from you and me and the people around us'. The Transition movement is now working to put these ideas for increasing local resilience into practice
Passivhaus Totnes
Today I met with Adam Dadeby and had the opportunity to look over a Passivhaus in Dartington. Passivhaus originated in Germany in 1991 but now countries around the world are adopting the standard and adapting it to their local architecture and climate. Since 2009, it has been taking off rapidly in the UK too. A Passivhaus with ultra low energy building standard needs 90% less energy than a typical UK home, protecting owners or tenants from fuel poverty for ever. Designed and built with proper care and attention to detail, they stay very comfortable in summer and winter, without relying on lots of complex technology. A very interesting project.
Meeting with Baywide
Meeting with Dr Samantha Barrell from Baywide to discuss the proposed new arrangements for 2 clinical commissioning groups to cover Devon.
Totnes Surgery
The first surgery of the new year. If you would like to meet to discuss your concerns or local and national issues please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email: nina.smith@parliament.uk to arrange an appointment.
Open Meeting at Loddiswell
I attended an Open Public Meeting in Loddiswell and I also had the opportunity to meet with the Parish Council.
Torbay Council
I had a meeting at Torquay Town Hall with Elizabeth Raikes and Cllrs Thomas and Richardson to discuss Park Homes and the problems faced by residents.
Brixham Police
Visit to Brixham Police Station to celebrate the contribution of Special Constables to policing in Torbay.
There are over 14,000 special constables across the UK, all volunteers and it was a privilege to meet them to hear their contribution recognised by Inspector Nye and to hear about the challenging but fascinating teamwork involved.
Totnes Police Station
Meeting with our local police to discuss the force reorganisation known as blueprint and how the teams area are coping with changes to their shift patterns and response teams. It was also good to meet the team which then takes over to investigate crimes after the response team.
Totnes Surgery
Please get in contact should you wish to meet with me at one of my surgeries around the constituency. The contact for surgery appointments is 01803 86878 or by email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Visit to Specialty Fasteners and Components Ltd in Totnes
Speciality Fasteners and Componets Ltd is a thriving business produces and exports fasteners for high end vehicles like racing cars and speed boats but are currently threatened by the uncontrolled growth of counterfeit products in the Far East. It was shocking to see how these poor quality imitations could be broken apart and yet how convincing the fake packaging looked. Such fakes are not only a threat to safety but are also damaging small British engineering firms.
Meeting with Anthony Farnsworth, Torbay Care Trust
Discussion about the achievements and challenges facing the Torbay Care Trust in the year ahead as they become a provider of services and hand over all their commissioning roles to Baywide. We are waiting to hear final news of how the commissioning groups will look in Devon. This meeting was also an opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities for developing our community hospitals and the work of the Leagues of Friends.
Kingsbridge Surgery
Today I held a surgery at Quay House in Kingsbridge, and I try to rotate my surgeries around the constituency. If you have any concerns or issues you would like to discuss with me please telephone Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk to arrange an appointment.
Totnes Surgery
I held a surgery in Totnes today, if you would like to meet please telephone Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk to arrange an appointment.
West Charleton Open Meeting
My thanks to everyone for organising a successful Open Meeting at West Charleton Village Hall. It was good to meet with many local residents to discuss both local and national issues.
Devon Rape Crisis Centre
Today I spoke as Patron, at the launch of Devon's first Rape Crisis Centre. Devon has long been recognised as one of the areas of the Country with the worst access to support for victims of sexual violence and as a former police surgeon and GP I am proud that the Conservatives have honoured our manifesto commitment to improve this service. Thanks to three years of secure funding this will include education and prevention as well as a confidential telephone helpline and face-to-face support. There will also be support for partners, friends or relatives. I am sure that this new service will help those who have been victims of sexual violence and are struggling to move on from these deeply traumatic crimes. The new service will begin by running the helpline (01392 204174) on Mondays from 3pm to 6pm, Fridays from 2pm to 5pm and Saturdays from 11am and 2pm. The hours will increase to 20 a week once the next team of volunteers have finished training. The website is www.devonrapecrisis.org.uk
Brixham Surgery
I held another busy surgery today at Brixham Conservative Club, if you would like an appointment to meet, please telephone Nina Smith on 01803 868378.
Paignton Community College
I enjoyed my visit to the 6th form at Paignton Community College for a discussion about the role of an MP and to hear views on a range of issues from university funding and bursaries to ideas about tackling problem drinking in Torbay.
National Farmer's Union
Thank you to the National Farmer's Union for inviting me to speak at their Annual Meeting. This was a great opportunity for an update from local farmers on the problems facing them as a result of Bovine TB and a range of other issues.
Leatside Surgery
It was wonderful to tour the new facilities at Leatside Surgery following the reopening by Jonathan Dimbleby. We were treated to a tremendous serenade by the Surgery Singers at this warm and friendly event.
TQ9 Project
Congratulations to James Engwell. TQ9 is now up and running at their new premises at 16, High Street, Totnes.
Totnes is a thriving centre for the creative industries, music, arts & natural health. Home to acclaimed writers, poets & thinkers, as well as to a number of progressive organisations with global influence. However, while the area enjoys rich cultural diversity, interesting people, outstanding natural beauty & low crime, there is a huge disparity in incomes, high unemployment & a lack of opportunity.
The TQ9 project aims to respond to these challenges by;
- Developing flexible & affordable workspace network to address the shortage of available workspace in Totnes, and increase collaborative working.
- Creating a Skills and Training Programme to address the lack of understanding & uptake of digital services, and increase enterprise development success.
- Running a Project Management & Enterprise Development programme to catalyse local enterprise start-ups and accelerate current ongoing projects.
- Creating a #Hyperlocal Digital Network to enable the free exchange, storage & protection of social, cultural & economic resources within the South Hams.
Open Meeting at Dartmouth Guildhall
Thank you to everyone who attended this open meeting. The subjects ranged from localism, draft National Planning Policy Framework , Europe, the economy, the importance of Britannia Royal Naval College , farming and Brixham coastguards to name but a few. I am grateful to all who attended for a lively and broad reaching discussion.
Dartmouth Surgery
Today, my Advice Surgery was held at Dartmouth Guildhall, for details of further surgeries or to make an appointment, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Suptd Jim Nye
This was a meeting to discuss policing in Paignton and Brixham whilst Paignton and Brixham remain low crime areas there has been a blip in the downward trend of recent years. Unfortunately a significant number of burglaries are opportunistic, crimes where householders have left windows or doors open this was also a meeting to discuss individual concerns raised by constituents and how the force is coping with significant operational changes.
Slapton Partnership
I had a meeting with Simon Tonge of the Slapton Line Partnership. This was a chance to discuss Slapton Ley Nature Reserve and the future of the Slaton line.
Totnes Surgery
Another surgery in Totnes and if you require an appointment please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or by email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Whitecleave Quarry
This was a public meeting at the Royal Seven Stars, Totnes organised by Friends of the Earth to discuss the damaging impact at Buckfastleigh and surrounding areas that could result from incinerator bottom ash, not only are there likely to be age impacts on an important bat habitat but real concerns about heavy metals and other toxins leeching from the ash and finding their way into the Dart. All this on top of up to an extra 200 lorries a day adding to noise pollution. The meeting heard that reducing waste remains a top priority and that Devon County Council should be congratulated for the progress that they have made in this respect. Devon is now top of the league nationally with 55% of all waste being recycled, The meeting also heard from the Devon Alliance for Incineration alternatives who would prefer to see a state of the art materials recovery facility, better use of anaerobic digestion for food waste and gasification and pyrolysis for waste that cannot be recycled this would avoid the 70,000 tons of toxic or highly toxic ash produced per year additionally by incinerators. Concerns were also raised about the use of DFI to fund the incinerator project.
Dartmoor National Park Authority
I met with Dartmoor National Park Authority, this was an opportunity to discuss the draft National Planning Policy Framework and other issues affecting Dartmoor with Dr Kevin Bishop.
Remembrance Sunday
I joined the Mayor and Civic Party in Totnes today to remember those who have died in the service of our country. It was a very moving service and impressive parade.
Hastoe Housing Association
It was a great privilege to be asked to tour the superb new development in Malborough with a much needed 17 further houses to rent for local families. Congratulations to Hastoe Housing Association and South Hams District Council
Kingsbridge Surgery
Quay House in Kingsbridge was the venue for my Advice Surgery today, but I have surgeries at different location within the constituency. If you would like an appointment to discuss your concerns please ring 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Palladium Building Supplies
I enjoyed my visit to Palladium Building Supplies, a thriving business covering South Hams and beyond, from their base in Kingsbridge. I toured the site with branch Manager Nick Cox and director Keith Olver and met Sylvain Bourdas who has received a national award for product knowledge and advice. It was reassuring to hear that builder's merchants welcome DIY enthusiasts as well as those with expert knowledge. This was an opportunity to discuss policies like the renewable heat incentive and the green deal as well as the difficulties that firms like Palladium will face if 3p per litre duty rise goes ahead in January.
Charlotte Leslie
It was good to welcome my colleague Charlotte Leslie to Thurlestone to hear her talking about the importance of volunteering and community involvement in her role as ambassador for the Big Society. Charlotte has a particular interest in sport as a means of bringing communities together.
Totnes surgery
My surgeries continue to be busy, so if you wish to meet with me to discuss your concerns, please contact Nina on 01803 868378 or nina.smith@parliament.uk to book an appointment.
NHS South West
I attended the NHS South West Top Leaders Development Programme Conference.I was speaking at this conference of future NHS clinical leaders about the interface between politics and the NHS.
Kingsbridge & Salcombe Chamber of Commerce
This was a meeting with the Kingsbridge & Salcombe Chamber of Commerce to talk about recent events in politics and catch up with issues for businesses in South Devon.
South Hams Art Forum
South Hams Arts Forum It was a real pleasure to launch the South Hams Arts Trail and to meet so many of our talented local artists
Kingsbridge Surgery
Another full surgery at Quay House, Kingsbridge. If you would like to meet with me at one of my future surgeries please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk
Kingsbridge Community Gardens
In 1995, half an acre of scrub land was identified as a possible site for a community garden for Kingsbridge.
Over the years volunteers have been working on the site, creating a garden that this year won an 'Award of Outstanding Achievement' from the RHS South West in Bloom.
The aims of the garden are to provide educational and recreational amenities for the local community, to conserve materials and energy through composting and recycling and to work with local schools. They are a Citizenship partner of the Kingsbridge Community College.
The garden is a charity and is self-supporting through the sales of produce, open days and plant sales. Well worth a visit!
Stanborough Chorus
It was wonderful to hear the Stanborough Chorus in action at Kingsbridge 
with a selection of popular choral works.
Dartington Great Debate
Congratulations to Dartington Hall on another in their series of political debates, this time on the theme of Crime and Punishment
Environment Agency
Meeting with the Environment Agency to hear updates on water quality improvement issues around local planning matters. It was good to hear that the Agency have dropped opposition to the development at Noss Mayo.
South Brent Railway Station
It was good to meet with those who would like to see trains stopping in South Brent rather than having to travel to Ivybridge or Totnes.
Cool Recovery
This was an opportunity to catch up with the volunteers, carers and users of Cool Recovery
South Brent Surgery
Today I held a surgery in South Brent and if you would like to meet at one of my future surgeries to discuss any issues or concerns, please phone my constituency office on 01803 868378
Conservative Party Conference
This was an opportunity to highlight local successes such as the Totnes Food Mapping project and integrated Health and Social Care in Torbay as well as meet with a number of medical charities and campaign groups.
Holne Village Shop and Tea Rooms
A visit to Holne village stores and tearooms to hear the great news that grant 
funding has been approved for 6 affordable homes subject to planning permission. Congratulations to the housing committee who have worked for many years to try to get this project up and running. This vibrant community are now running their village stores and tea rooms with a team of enthusiastic volunteers and now need to raise funds to buy the premises. If you haven't visited, the cream teas and local walks are fabulous.
Holne Surgery
What a fantastic location for a constituency surgery in the sunshine on Dartmoor.
Open meeting Kingsbridge Community College on the NHS
This was a public meeting to discuss the changes to the NHS. Everybody was welcome to hear and ask questions about the local and national picture from myself, David Radford, the chair of NHS Devon and Dr Stephen Harris, lead commissioner for our local pathfinder clinical commissioning group.
Kingswear Station
This was an open meeting with KARRD, a campaigning group opposed to the two storey building that has been erected, despite local opposition, within the conservation area in Kingswear. Within the grounds of a station, no planning permission is apparently required. This is a warning for the consequences of unrestricted development; a meaningful consultation with local people would have been a better way forward.
De Verde Technologies
This was a chance to revisit De Verde Technologies, a green business in the constituency to look at developments in their device to reduce carbon emissions and improve engine efficiency.
New Key
New Key, it was good to meet up again with Gary Kent to visit those who are now able to live with much greater control over their lives in New Key's accommodation and it was also good to visit Paignton and catch up with another great coffee morning for Macmillan Cancer Care.
Gary Kent, Shelley Batchelor and Sally Cairns
Macmillan Coffee Morning
The world's greatest coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care at Barclay's Bank in Totnes. Congratulations to all the staff and volunteers for hosting this event in the centre of Totnes.
Jan Maddick and Simon Jordy
Totnes surgery
If you would like to meet with me at my next surgery please telephone Nina Smith on 01803 868378
PC Builders
Meeting with Paul Collings of PC Builders to discuss the issues for the building industry.
AGM NHS Devon PCT
This was an opportunity to meet at County Hall Exeter with the board to discuss the transition to Clinical Commissioning and the progress of the Health and Social Care Bill.
Click on the link if you would like to look in detail at the annual report of NHS Devon.
CAB
It was good to catch up with Nick Dilworth from Citizens Advice Bureau to discuss local issues and concerns raised by individual constituents
Bob the Bus
No one could fail to notice Bob the Bus in Totnes, our community bus run by a committed team of volunteers. Now with a fleet of 3 and hoping to expand. We met to discuss the real challenges facing rural bus services and how better support could be put in place for community buses. The team are always looking for more volunteers to join them so if you would like to get involved, do get in touch with Tanya Vickers, the Coordinator on 01803 867076 or 01803 868584
Bogan House
I visited the Devonshire Collection of Period Costume, at Bogan House, to view their current 
exhibition, which shows the impact of developments in new materials on dress over the years. I was briefed on the exciting plans for next year's exhibition, which will reflect the fact that 2012 is Olympic Year by Chairman of the Trustees, Justine Holmes.
The Collection had been able to greatly increase its attraction, over the last few years, thanks largely to the generosity of former Trustees, Priscilla Mitchell and Peter Clapham, who had provided substantial bequests. The Museum is, however, still very dependent upon the goodwill of its organisation of Friends and relies heavily on them to enable it to be constantly on the look out for ways of increasing the scope of the Collection and presenting it to the public.
It was a real pleasure to meet Julia Fox, the Collection's Honorary Curator and the team of volunteers at Totnes museum of costume at Bogan House. This remarkable collection is well worth a visit. My personal favourite was the mauveine dress, dyed in the revolutionary new colour said to "lure on foolish batchelors to sudden proposals".
Kingfisher Print
Kingfisher Print is a thriving printing business in Totnes. I was shown around their premises and we discussed issues facing the printing industry.
Interrogate Festival Dartington
I took part in the debate at Dartington about Health inequalities alongside Molly Mattingley from the Mental Health Foundation. Health inequalities are stark in the UK and despite being set as a priority by the last government, inequalities worsened over the last decade. The average life expectancy gap is 7 years between the north and south of England and the gap in living free from disease is 17 years. There are very many complex issues behind this and the Government's response to the Marmot review was published last year.
Here is the link to Healthy lives Healthy people
This debate was a good opportunity to discuss how difficult it is to close the gap in health.
Totnes Surgery
If you would like to meet at one of my Advice Surgeries please telephone 01803 868378
Tor Homes and South Hams District Council
This was a meeting to discuss a range of issues from the draft National Planning Policy Framework to the ongoing acute shortage of affordable housing either to buy or rent in South Devon.
I am absolutely committed to our South Devon countryside and it is clear that where local plans are in place, as is the case for the South Hams, this will not lead to large scale inappropriate developments as was the case under regional spatial strategies. The whole point of localism is for communities to have greater power over their housing needs.
Rape Crisis Centre
Devon Rape Crisis Service has recently formed and is getting ready to deliver services to women across the county who have experienced rape, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse or any form of sexual violence. To do so, we need to recruit volunteers to work on our telephone helpline and to offer face to face support and advocacy to women. Volunteers receive acredited training, support, supervision and expenses and the next course starts in February 2012. If you are interested please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator, Anna Janota on 01392 208756 or anna@devonrapecrisis.org.uk
Left to right seated; Yvonne Atkinson, Moira Macdonald, Sarah Wollaston, Linda Regan
Totnes Surgery
Today I held another busy surgery at Totnes. If you would like an appointment to meet and discuss your concerns please telephone 01803 868378
Transition Town Totnes
I met with Frances Northrop,Transition Town Totnes to discuss the benefits of having a business incubation hub in Totnes.
If you are not familiar with the full scope of Transition Town Totnes' projects and would like to get more involved then follow the link
Dartmoor National Park Authority
It was good to catch up with Dr Kevin Bishop of the Dartmoor National Park Authority and Cllr Bill Morgan to discuss individual constituents' concerns as well as the proposed changes to the Governance of National Parks. Some have been concerned that the National Parks lack democratic accountability but 4 of the 22 members of DNPA are parish councillors and 12 are directly appointed from district or county councils. 6 are appointed by the Secretary of State. These are not salaried posts but members have a small annual allowance. If you would like to view the proposals to introduce elected representatives then click here
Brixham Surgery
I hold surgeries in different locations throughout the constituency and if you would like an appointment please telephone 01803 868378
Brixham Museum
Thanks to all the volunteers at Brixham Heritage Museum for the extraordinary work that goes into keeping the museum flourishing. The museum is fortunate to have as its curator zooarchaeologist Dr Philip Armitage who also supervises archaeological digs at Berry Head as well as re-enactments of Napoleonic life and organising the new display of early Brixham fossils.
Well worth a visit.
Open Meeting supporting Brixham Coastguards
Brixham Open Meeting in support of our Coastguards at the Riviera Centre, Torbay. This was an opportunity for the community to pay tribute to our Maritime Rescue Coordinators and to hear from the many groups who rely upon them. It was especially moving to hear the tribute from Sheryll Murray MP, whose own fisherman husband Neil lost his life at sea. There are some things that go beyond a price tag like the ability for fishing families to speak to someone on the end of a phone who knows their families boat. The cost savings from this modernisation do not in my opinion justify the imposition of another untested and centralised computer based response system.
Photo courtesy of Herald Express
Brixham Coastguards
Meeting with Brixham Coastguards in advance of the public meeting to discuss the campaign to retain our service in Brixham and to draft a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport
Brixham for Global Action Bike Ride
Congratulations to Richard Montgomery and all those who took part in the cycle ride from Bolton Cross to Churston to highlight the need for improvements to cycle routes around the Bay. This would not only help to reduce traffic but would, as in so many other towns, attract visitors interested in green tourism.
UKCEA Conference Torbay
This was an opportunity to discuss the future of medical education, workforce planning and training with doctors' leaders from across the UK.
Following the NHS listening exercise, there was a commitment to introduce further protections to training for all NHS staff and the NHS Future Forum were given further time to develop proposals.
It was clear from the conference that there remain concerns about the number of EU area doctors practising in the UK without adequate English language skills. The General Medical Council are also deeply concerned about the EU directives that prevent language testing and I feel this is an area which needs further challenge.
St Peter's Church Cornworthy
To mark the completed restoration of the lovely 1610 Harris memorial in St Peter's Church with the help of a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the church held a photographic competition. If you haven't had the chance to explore one of Devon's truly remarkable Norman churches, this is well worth a visit.
Brixham Fishstock
Congratulations to the organisers of Fishstock for another great year showcasing the best of Brixham and Devon seafood, cooking, live music and other entertainment. It was great to tour trawlers and the Vigilance.
Private Member's Bill
Fridays are usually a constituency day but this was scheduled to be the second reading of my private members bill to prevent alcohol marketing to children. As is so often the case with private members bills, this ran out of time but has at least been able to contribute to the debate about the need for tighter controls on those marketing alcohol.
Click here to watch the First Reading Speech
Totnes Surgery
I continue to have surgeries around the constituency, please do contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 if you would like to meet up with me
On Patrol with Paignton Police
I am grateful to Devon and Cornwall Police officers for their time discussing local policing issues and concerns. Whilst on patrol with Paignton Police, it was clear that whilst Devon is one of the safest areas of the country, antisocial behaviour and in particular linked to alcohol, is the chief concern for local people.
The amount of time wasted by police, the courts and the nhs dealing with alcohol related illness, crime and antisocial behaviour is a disgrace and we are all picking up the bill..around £20billion per year.
Totnes Surgery
I hold regular surgeries and if you would like an appointment to discuss issues or problems with me, do telephone Nina Smith on 01803 868378
Falcon Park
I attended a meeting with the residents of Falcon Park.The treatment of Park Homes residents continues to cause great concern to MPs from across the political spectrum. A new scheme to try to give residents access to justice has just been set up this year, as part of the Residential Property Tribunal Service but many examples of poor treatment were raised at todays meeting with Park Homes Owners.
Woobiz development team
Watch this space for another locally developed idea to help bring businesses, mentors, volunteers and finance together.
Meeting with the Land Society at South Devon College
This was a meeting about an inspiration local scheme to bring sustainable affordable housing to rural Devon. I met with the Land Society team to hear about the course that they are setting up at South Devon College to help people with strong local ties or commitment to both identify and build homes in their villages on land that has been bought through community land trusts. No one wants to see inappropriate large scale development but equally there is a desperate shortage of affordable housing and village communities are losing out as young people cannot afford to live here. House building fell in the last decade and there has to be a balance between the needs of local people for housing and jobs and a natural reluctance to see development. I think the Land Society has a great proposal. For more details do look at the "Housing" tab under "Issues"
Meeting with Cllr Ellery
Meeting with Cllr Ellery from Brixham to discuss the Brixham Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre and the meeting at the Riviera Centre on September 17th at 7.00pm. All are welcome.
Totnes Elizabethan House Museum
Thank you to Alan Langmaid and Richard Wyatt for a truly memorable tour of Totnes' very own time machine. So much to see at the Elizabethan House Museum and so well displayed. My personal favourite was the Lee Ring, an intriguing piece of our local history.
Meeting with Councillors of South Hams District Council
I met with Cllr John Tucker and Cllr Michael Hicks of South Hams District Council to discuss the Coalitions Draft National Planning Policy Framework. Have you read the document? Please let me know your views.
Meeting with Humpty Dumpty Childcare
It was a pleasure to meet with Connie Wilcocks and Bev Cleave to discuss some of the problems facing small businesses and in particular those providing early years and nursery care.
We discussed early years childcare grant and the issues around the age at which children transfer to schools. As ever there is the issue of duplication of admin and the time that small businesses spend completing paperwork and inspections. I look forward to keeping in touch with this enthusiastic team who invited me to visit through the Forum of Private Business and their business buddy scheme.
South Hams Community & Voluntary Services
It was lovely to meet members of the South Hams Community & Voluntary Services based at Follaton House and to hear about the work which they do in the South Hams and to discuss some of the issues affecting the local voluntary & community sector.
(in picture from left to right: Claudia Benzies, David Trigger, Sarah Wollaston MP, Vic Rosati (Chair), Jill Davies (Chief Officer))
South Devon Rural Housing Association
South Devon Rural Housing Association is a small community based, charitable, not -for -profit organisation, providing housing, support and care in South Devon. In April 2011 they moved into new offices in Totnes, just opposite Leatside Surgery. The premises are home to their Day Centre and also the main offices for the Association. They have other rooms which are available to rent at low cost or no cost, to local charities and other community organisations. These rooms are already being put to good use as the home of Totnes Memory Cafe.
Please contact them by their web site www.southdevonrural.com email info@southdevonrural.com or ring 01803 863550.
Meeting with LINK at Totnes
LINk is the Local Involvement Network, shortly to become Local Healthwatch, an organisation that aims to report on and liaise about local healthcare provision. Under the Health and Social Care Bill, there will be an increase in the accountability of local healthcare. It is fair to say that local people had very little say in how health services were commissioned or provided in the past and as we move to the new arrangements with clinical commissioning, there should be much greater opportunity for people to get involved through local healthwatch.
Home Meadow Totnes
It was a great pleasure to meet the residents of Home Meadow in Totnes and to discuss the importance of wardens in sheltered housing. I met Jill Monkton and Sarah Kingston who did so much to campaign to keep their warden when the service was under threat.
It was also an opportunity for an open forum meeting with residents.
Robert Owen Communities Totnes and Paignton
I spent the morning with David Wilson, CE of Robert Owen Communities, which supports people with learning and physical disabilities in South Devon. Calling in on sports day in Paignton and ROC Creative as well as Laura House in Totnes and an opportunity to discuss how personal budgets for those with disabilities can be used to give real control back to service users.
Brixham Young Volunteers
Brixham Young volunteers are based at the old United Reform Church in Bolton Street supported by YES, the Youth Enquiry Service, a small local independent charity supporting young people in Brixham, whatever their circumstances. It was a great pleasure to visit the new premises and feel such a warm welcome from an inspiring group of people and to hear about their impressive programme of entertainment and community volunteering with a particular flair for linking across the generations in Brixham.
Brixham Surgery
Today I held another surgery at Brixham Conservative Club, please do get in touch if you would like an appointment to see me, by telephoning Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or by emailing nina.smith@parliament.uk
Brixham Pirate Walks
Congratulations to David Croney from the Brixham Buccaneers for setting up two walks around Brixham. Brixham Pirate Walks cover all of Brixham's hidden treasures and some fantastic views. Blackbeard's Trail and Buccaneers Way are both now marked and well worth a detour.
Brixham Hospital
It was good to return to Brixham Hospital and to tour the wonderful new facilities at the site with Senior Nurse Manager Carol Gilmour. All 20 beds are open in Brixham. It was also an opportunity to catch up with doctors from St Lukes and Compass Rd as well as nursing staff.
New Devon Opera's production of Carmen
It was good to visit the Flavel in Dartmouth and meet with Linda Hughes, Chair of New Devon Opera to hear about the work of the New Devon Opera, which successfully combines professional singers and musicians with a community chorus. It was also a chance to discuss how companies like NDO can be constrained by excessive bureaucracy; the community chorus cannot for example include children due to overly restrictive regulations and it is a shame to see that these rules can prevent children from having the chance to perform.
Honorary Membership of Totnes Rotary
I was delighted to join the Totnes Rotary Club as an honorary member. Rotary contribute so much to the local community and I look forward to joining them at future events.
Meeting with Supt Glen Mayhew
Devon continues to be amongst the safest areas in the country but there are always areas that can be improved. I was shocked to hear that for domestic violence in Devon, 60% of cases are directly related to alcohol. It seems that whilst in urban areas, alcohol and binge drinking are mostly associated with public violence, in rural areas it can so often lead to violence in the home.
It was helpful to catch up with Supt Mayhew to discuss the partnerships in the South Hams that are tackling this. If you have been affected and want to talk in confidence you can follow the link to South Devon Womens Aid or of course speak directly to the police.
Totnes in Bloom
Continuing the gardening theme, I met with some of the team from Totnes in Bloom and was able to tour Totnes to look at the sites that have been transformed already and those that the team have next in their sights including roundabouts, shady corners and abandoned planters. The group are always ready to welcome anyone with enthusiasm with a few hours to spare and no previous gardening experience is necessary.
Paignton Surgery
I held a surgery at Great Parks Community Centre and also enjoyed a tour of the centre with the dedicated team of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to paint and renovate the centre.
Opening of the Community Garden QED Paignton
It was a real pleasure to revisit the community Garden which has now been transformed by volunteers including a group from Dreamscheme. Last time I saw the 'garden' is was all concrete and overgrown with weeds but now bursting with colour and even with vegetables.
Totnes Surgery
If you wish to meet with me to discuss any concerns, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or email nina.smith@parliament.uk to arrange an appointment.
Dartmouth Harbour
A meeting with Rob Giles, Harbour Master, Neil Hockaday, Chair and several members of the Dart Harbour Team to hear about the challenges facing small ports and harbours around the country. It was a privilege to meet the dedicated team mostly of volunteers who safeguard Dartmouth's harbour for leisure users and professionals alike.
Meeting with Salcombe Traders
This was a meeting to discuss the ongoing problem of exorbitant rate increases in Salcombe, which is becoming even more of a problem now that transitional relief is phasing out. We discussed the proposal to 'repatriate' business rates to district and county councils and the opportunity this will present to allow councils to recognise the particular problems facing our town centre independent retailers. The underlying problem however still remains the way in which small businesses like bakeries are rated using the same criteria as national chain stores and according to rents that were charged before the recent economic challenges
Saltsone Caring
I met with Lisa Butcher who is the co-ordinator for Saltstone Caring. Saltstone caring covers Salcombe and Kingsbridge and coordinates a network of volunteers who provide a fantastic service across the area.
Kingsbridge Surgery
If you wish to meet me at one of my surgeries, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 or by email nina.smith@parliament.uk. Today I held my surgery at The Quay in Kingsbridge.
MMR Campaign
I met with Dr Virginia Pearson, the Director of Public Health for Devon Primary Care Trust and Devon County Council and we discussed a recent outbreak of measles at a school in Ashburton which has highlighted the risk to communities where immunisation levels fall below the levels needed to prevent this highly contagious disease spreading amongst those who have not been protected through vaccination. Whilst some people dismiss measles as just a harmless childhood virus, the reality is that even in healthy children it is very unpleasant and in a minority of cases can lead to deafness, inflammation of the brain and long term damage. NHS Devon has launched a campaign, which I fully support, to encourage parents to take a few minutes at the start of the summer holidays to visit their surgery to talk about vaccination.
Many children missed out on the vital second dose of MMR and parents may be wrongly assuming that their children are protected by having had a single dose. I would urge them to think about having the booster to protect them against the increasing risk of measles.
South Devon Healthcare Foundation Trust
I met with CE Paula Vasco-Knight, Chairman Peter Hildrew and Medical Director John Lowes at Torbay Hospital, the South Devon Healthcare Foundation Trust. This was to discuss the success of integration of healthcare that has been achieved in South Devon and how to improve patients' experiences.
Whenever I write about successes at the Trust, I do know that not everyone is happy with the NHS service that they or a loved one has received. These meetings are also valuable opportunities to raise individual concerns as well as look to see how I can help feedback concerns from doctors and nurses working on the frontline.
Visit by Maria Miller
Maria Miller, Under Secretary of State at the Dept of Work and Pensions came to the constituency at the invitation of the National Federation for the Blind, following my meeting with them in Paignton earlier this year. She met with many local people who are living with severe visual impairment.
It was an opportunity to discuss the change from Disability Living Allowance DLA, to Personal Independence Payments and exchange views on the proposals. Maria was able to allay some of the unfounded myths about the proposals but also to hear firsthand about ways that those coping with blindness felt the assessments could be improved or in some cases scrapped.
Way with Words weekend
Ways with Words Literary Festival at Dartington celebrates the power of books, words and ideas in one of the Country's most beautiful settings.
I was delighted to be invited to a lively debate on 'The Big society' with Cole Moreton and Peter Stanford.
I am very clear about the 'Big Society', for me it is about trying to spread the example from communities across South Devon which have been delivering this for years. Government's role is to make sure that the barriers to volunteering and philanthropy is swept away wherever possible and that more power is given to neighbourhoods through localism.
Visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall to Salcombe
A great day for Salcombe, the sun was shining and the Duke and Duchess were able to see Salcombe at its very best.
Service of Valediction for the 43rd Wessex Division
It was a great honour to be present for the service in Exeter Cathedral to mark the achievements of the 43rd Wessex Division and inaugurate the '43rd Wessex Heritage Trust'. The 'Fighting Wessex Wyverns' fought many epic battles over 10 months in Normandy, suffering the highest rate of casualties of all Divisions engaged in the North West Europe campaign.
Chief Constable Stephen Otter
I had a meeting with Stephen Otter Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police
Devon remains among the safest places to live in the country and confirmed by figures recently published by the Home Office.
Recorded crime in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly fell by 6% in the year up to March 2011, compared to the previous year. The Force area has the third lowest crime rate in the country.
Burglary fell by 8% in the 12 month period while offences against vehicles dropped by a substantial 15%; criminal damage decreased by 14% and other theft offences were down by 4%.
But the police have had a challenging couple of months with radical changes to the way that response teams operate and it was helpful to be able to discuss residents' concerns and I am pleased to hear that the Chief Constable will be visiting Dartmouth and reviewing the impact of changes on a regular basis.
KEVICCs
Meeting at KEVICC to discuss the proposal for Co-operative Trust Status. Principal Kate Mason responded to concerns raised by some parents about the consultation and Trust schools. Becoming a Trust school will enable the land and assets to be secured in a Trust for the long term benefit of students and the community as freehold rather than as a long term lease. It does not prevent the school from becoming an academy or part of a federation if they wished to go down that route at a later stage.
Tor Homes affordable housing
It is wonderful to see new affordable housing in Totnes and great to see builders at work on the next phase of development.
L-R
Cllr Michael Saltern, Executive Member for Housing for South Hams District Council, Kerry Parnell (new tenant)-Graham Facks-Martin Chair Tor Homes-Dr Sarah Wollaston Totnes MP
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery at Totnes, another surgery was arranged for the next day. If you would like an appointment please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378
South Hams Housing
Today I met with Paul Eells the South Hams District Council's Advice Manager and Darren Cole, Head of ICT Customer Services to discuss the ever present problem of housing in the South Hams. We talked at length about Devon Home Choice and their website.
I am including some useful links to South Hams District Council's Housing website
http://www.southhams.gov.uk/ksp_housing.htm (Main housing page)
http://www.southhams.gov.uk/index/residents_index/ksp_housing/ksp_housingadvice.htm (Housing advice page)
http://www.southhams.gov.uk/ben-homepage.htm (Housing benefits main page)
http://www.southhams.gov.uk/index/residents_index/ben-homepage/wbc-sp11.htm (Benefits calculator)
Visits to Paignton and Totnes Police Stations
I met with Superintendant Nye and Sgt Bell in Paignton and with PC Foster in Totnes.
This was an opportunity to hear about changes to the work of response officers and the work of neighbourhood teams. In the face of great financial challenges Devon and Cornwall Police are doing all they can to continue their professional approach and maintain response times.
Official Opening of TOR2 recycling
Congratulations to TOR2 on the new recycling facility opened on the Yalberton Industrial Estate. After the initial difficulties of the changes to recycling in Torbay, the results speak for themselves as Torbay has drastically reduced waste going to landfill. This fantastic new amenity should ensure that Torbay meets its targets well ahead of time and allows real savings to taxpayers.
Townstal Public Meeting
I attended a public meeting at the Townstal Community Hall of the Townstal Community Partnership and took part in an open question session where we discussed matters affecting the local community. These issues included the proposed relocation of the Dartmouth Academy and also the loss of the bus service between Dartmouth and Torquay. This matter was discussed at great length with many of the attendees sharing their experiences. I explained that I had requested a debate in the Houses of Parliament about rural bus services and that I would take these experiences and present them to the Minister for Transport. Thank you to everyone for making me so welcome and I look forward to future meetings at Townstal.
Picture courtesy of Fred Pritchard
Brixham Trawler Race
Congratulations to Alan Healey and the whole committee for another great day for the
Brixham Trawler Race. For more photos click here
Torbay Development Agency
I met with Steve Parrock and Alan Denby from the TDA for an update on the Brixham Regeneration Project. Tesco remains conditionally signed up to the Town Centre Project for a supermarket, additional parking and affordable housing. This will involve an increase in parking spaces from 170 to 355, essential if we are to increase the footfall to neighbouring Fore Street especially if we see 1.5 hours free parking on site. A similar scheme in Newton Abbot helped to boost trade to a failing high street and of course is preferable to another out of town development. I accept that the construction period will present real challenges but my personal view is that the scheme will act as a catalyst for further investment in the town centre.
Meeting with Carers and Service Users at New Key in Totnes
During Carers' week it was good to meet up with carers and service users at New Key in Dart Marine Park, Totnes. I was able to hear first hand from someone who had had dreadful experience of care in residential care. With the horrific abuse reported from Winterborne View very much in the public eye this was a good opportunity to stress the importance of widening access to individual supported accommodation. We all like to chose who we live with so it is only right that this freedom is extended to everyone. The point was made that personal budgets for those needing support are the way forward. This was a really helpful meeting to share ideas on how this needs to be introduced with support for Personal Advocates to help those with learning difficulties to negotiate the system.
Sparkwell Village Hall
A meeting to explain and debate the changes to the Health and Social Care Bill and the response to the Government's listening exercise 'The Future Forum'
Pastor Mark Hatch
It was a privilege to meet Pastor Mark Hatch, volunteers and those who are homeless in Totnes to hear about the challenges they face providing a vital lifeline to rough sleepers in town. They are shortly to lose their base at St John's Ambulance Hall and I hope will find a new base with support from South Hams District Council. Many homeless people come to Totnes because they feel safer in this community and I was struck by the level of support and friendship offered by Mark and his team at the Soup Kitchen. It is a tribute to the whole team that with support some of those they help are able to get their lives back on track but this takes time and cannot happen at all without a base from which to offer that help.
Glorious Chorus
Congratulations to Glorious Chorus, the renowned a capella group led by Helen Yeomans, on their 'One World' premier at St John's Church. If you are interested in community singing, Helen runs an open workshop on market days in Totnes or to see the future programme clink on this link
Strawberry Tea
This was an opportunity to catch up with residents in Stoke Fleming. Many thanks to the Newman family for hosting this event.
Salcombe Festival
Congratulations to David Cohen and the committee on another successful year.
This year the Salcombe Festival joined 
forces with the British classic yacht club and it was wonderful to see so many classic boats in the harbour.
Thank you to David Parsley and the team at Brixham and Totnes Surgeries
I held surgeries today at Brixham and Totnes, if you would like an appointment please telephone 01803 868378
County Hall Meeting with Cllr John Hart, Cllr Jonathan Hawkins and Nick Hindmarsh Principal of Dartmouth Academy
This was a meeting to put forward the very strong case for relocating the Academy to the Community Hub adjacent to the leisure centre. Now that the Academy has been awarded over £8m towards redevelopment, it would be a shame to miss the opportunity to locate the school at the heart of the community such that facilities can be shared and used far more effectively. Such a relocation is dependent on the County Council facilitating a land swap and I hope that all those concerned for the future of the redevelopment will contact their councillor to press the case for the school to be rebuilt in the best possible location. It would also mean that pupils would face minimal disruption during the redevelopment.
Justice for All
I am grateful to Nick Dilworth from the Citizens Advice Bureau for organising the Justice for All event at Follaton House to discuss the impact of changes to the funding of legal aid. Legal Aid was introduced in 1949 and has been a very important way for those on low incomes to access justice. Unfortunately the cost of legal aid has spiralled from around half a million pounds in 1982 to over £2 billion. Current proposals for reductions will affect an estimated half million cases and will also have an impact on the funding of our vital citizens advice bureau. I do accept that we need to look further at the impact of these proposals.
XTR Totnes
Today I opened the new showroom of XTR a leading brand in zero and low emission technology. I 
was able to test ride some of the economical an eco-friendly bikes and scooters on the Babbage Industrial Estate. This move towards energy efficient and cost effective transport will surely be one of the important features for the future. I was suitably impressed with my trial run on an electric bicycle. This new business will be creating employment opportunities as it also has an assembly plant at the premises www.x-ev.com
"Love Dartmouth"
Today I met with Carole and Bob Hart-Fletcher who are behind the launch of www.LoveDartmouth.com This website has been launched in partnership with "By the Dart". The people of Dartmouth and surrounding towns and villages now have their own bespoke Social Network designed for residents - full and part-time, visitors, businesses and community groups. An online destination for all to connect and share experiences, exchange views and post creative ideas around the unique challenges that Dartmouth and areas of the South Hams face. "Love Dartmouth" contributes to the government's Big Society vision of communities feeling empowered to solve problems in their neighbourhood, having freedom to influence and discuss topics that matter to them and a more local approach to social action and responsibility. In "Love Dartmouth" there is a fun factor too, so if you want to meet your neighbours, contribute to debates, participate in polls and research about local issues click on the following link www.LoveDartmouth.com
Devon Guild of Singers and Players
The final event for the Devon Guild of Singers and Players started with a day with the remarkable John Railton, who since 2002 has been giving so many people the opportunity to perform, un-auditioned, in large scale works. On Saturday they held a workshop for the Durufle Requiem prior to a performance in Buckfast Abbey. It was a privilege to watch John in action as so many came together to celebrate his 8 years of inspirational musicianship.
South Brent Community Composting Site
I met with volunteers for the opening of the Community Composting Site in South Brent.
Sustainable South Brent has been working with the District Council and the National Park for many years on this fantastic project to reduce the wasteful miles that garden waste is transported in Devon. This is just one of many projects, including a renewable energy wind turbine scheme, energy conservation and local transport campaigns now being taken forward by Sustainable South Brent. Congratulations to Ross Kennerley, Richard Chapman and a dedicated team of volunteers not just for this scheme but for their ongoing commitment to man the site with volunteers on Sunday mornings as well as their work on the school garden and allotments.
Royal College of Nursing
I really enjoyed discussing the Health and Social Care Bill with local representatives from the Royal College of Nursing today, as well as sharing ideas about workforce training and nursing careers.
Totnes Surgery
I held a surgery in Totnes today. If you would like an appointment please ring 01803 868378.
Thank you as always to all those who take the time to discuss a broad range of individual and national concerns.
Brixham Coastguard Open Day
Today was a great opportunity for the whole community to show their support for our local coastguard as we all await the outcome of the Select committee Report and the final response to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency's proposals. There can be no doubt about the vital role played by Brixham in safeguarding all those who use our coastal waters and I would like to again play tribute to the professionalism of our Coastguard.
Meeting The Police
I met with with Superintendant Jim Nye to hear about the challenges and successes facing our local police force and again to hear about the burden that irresponsible drinkers place on the resources of both Devon and Cornwall Police and the NHS.
National Federation of the Blind
I visited the National Federation of the Blind in Paignton to hear their concerns about benefit changes and about the shocking problem faced by those with guide dogs in Torbay. In the past month, 2 guide dogs have been so traumatised by attacks by other dogs that they have had to be withdrawn. Guide dogs are trained not to be aggressive and it is shocking that a minority of dog owners allow their own animals to cause such unnecessary suffering.
Totnes FM Radio
I visited Totnes FM Radio today. Totnes FM provides the community of Totnes with its own radio station delivering news, views, and entertainment relevant to local people.
Congratulations to David Parsley for getting the Radio station set up. I'm sure it's going to be a great success.
I will be doing Question Time Totnes events live on the show and chaired by David Parsley. You can come and put your questions directly to me by contacting them on 01803 862 267 or at info@totnesfm.co.uk, and putting Question Time Totnes in the subject line.
You can listen to Totnes FM radio on air at the Totnes FM Radio Website.
Below is a video of the launch, including an interview with myself.
Brixham and Totnes Surgeries
I held a surgery in Brixham this morning and then a surgery in Totnes this afternoon. If 
you would like an appointment please ring 01803 868378.
South West Trains
I had a meeting with South West Trains to discuss the possibility of improving train services to the South West and improving facilities for cyclists both on trains and at stations.
Official Opening of Marldon Village Playing Field
It was a pleasure today to cut the ribbon to mark the official opening of Marldon Village Playing Field.
Picture courtesy of Karen Perrow
Coastal walk
The final day!
The weather started dry, but finished rather wet!
We started at Berry Head and made our way to RNLI Brixham.
Onto the Fishermens Mission
Then it was Brixham Battery
And at Brixham Battery Museum we met Churchill!
Broadsands was in sight 
Thank you so much to everyone who made this walk such an enjoyable event, from the organisers to the walkers who accompanied me. Thank you for the donations, they are going to the charities that help make our coastline safe!
Coastal walk
This morning we started from Kingswear Village Hall and made our way to Froward Point, National Coastwatch Institution where we were given a fabulous welcome.
The National Trust at Coleton Fishacre, kindly allowed us to access to the beautiful grounds, beautiful surroundings!
We finished the day at Berry Head
Coastal walk
Today we walked from Hallsands and finished at Dartmouth, another glorious day!
We stopped at Strete Village hall for more refreshments
Next pit stop was Blackpool Sands
The final leg of today's journey brought us into Dartmouth
In Dartmouth we were given the opportunity to see the RNLI Lifeboat
Coastal walk
Today we assembled at East Portlemouth at the Venus Cafe and walked to the National Coastwatch Institution at Prawle Point where volunteers give up hours of their time to keep watch over our coastline and liaise with other rescue services; they are funded entirely by donations.
From Prawle Point we made our way to East Prawle and had wonderful crab sandwiches at the Piglet Cafe.
For the weary Tally Ho buses kindly arranged for a bus service!
Coastal Walk
We started from Bantham Beach with wonderful weather and thanks to David Grose of the Thurlestone Hotel some wonderful bacon butties cooked to perfection by Pat Ruse. The Bantham Surf Life SavingClub House is about fifteen years old and was built as a result of a Lottery grant for which members of the Club worked very hard to achieve particularly Peter Miles the Club Secretary. It was a pleasure to meet Esther Pearson the new Chief Executive of Surf Life Saving Great Britain.
The Bantham Surf Life Saving Club was formed in 1960 and David has had the honour of being its President since 1982.
The Club has well over 100 members and is affiliated to Surf Life Saving Great Britain the National Governing Body of which he is currently Chairman. Bantham SLSC leases out part of its Club premises to the RNLI. in order to facilitate their operations there. All the RNLI Lifeguards are paid and all the Club members are volunteers who live locally, many within the constituency. The Club is a community initiative and it is a thriving and valuable community asset.
Last year the Club volunteers trained eleven life savers. Some of these trained life savers will be employed by the RNLI in other parts of the country as Lifeguards. Surf Life Saving Great Britain has 72 Clubs such as Bantham all round the coast of GB and we have helped the RNLI to establish its Lifeguarding operation in England and Wales. Although RNLI Lifeguards patrol the beach during the week the Bantham SLSC members patrol at the weekends under the supervision of the head RNLI Lifeguard. The sea conditions at the beach can be extremely dangerous with changing rips and moving sand banks. Over the years the Club members have carried out many rescues. Some of the people rescued would almost certainly have drowned but for the courageous action of our lifesavers.
Pictures courtesy of Rupert Hancock and David Cohen
Sarah on Hope Cove Lifeboat
Leaving North Sands
Mariners Away!
Children and Families in Grief
Today at Pennywell Farm, was the launch of a new support group for young people facing bereavement, Children and Families in Grief. This bereavement charity have a dedicated team who are committed to supporting families at this difficult time. The therapists are experienced, sensitive and intuitive individuals brought together by their desire to help families through the process of grief. Anyone suffering with a loss can call 01803 393917, or write to PO Box 425, Paignton, TQ4 9BF or visit www.childrenandfamiliesingrief.co.uk
Farmers Meeting at Pennywell Farm
I met with farmers and the Devon Wildlife Trust at Pennywell Farm, where we had the opportunity to discuss and share opinions about how we can tackle the Bovine TB epidemic which is apparently devastating our local farming industry. There were views from all sides of the debate and it was chaired in an open and constructive forum.
Surgeries at Brixham and Totnes
I had two surgeries today, in the morning at Brixham and in the afternoon at Totnes. Please do telephone 01803 868378 if you wish to make an appointment to see me.
Licensing Officer SHDC
Meeting with the Licensing Officer for the South Hams, Graham Munson at Follaton House to discuss licensing issues in the South Hams and the issues around binge drinking and antisocial behaviour in the South Hams.
Totnes Surgery
Another busy day with a surgery at Totnes. Please call 01803 868378 if you wish to make an appointment to see me.
Devon Partnership Trust
Meeting with Iain Tulley, Chief Executive of the Devon Partnership Trust to discuss the provision of Mental Health Services in Devon and the Health and Social Care Bill.
KEVICCs
Visit to KEVICC to meet students to discuss the English Baccalaureate and their concerns that Religious Studies will not currently be counted towards this qualification. KEVICC has a particularly strong record in RS and I was impressed with the past papers and the strength of feeling that RS should not be considered a 'soft subject'. They made a powerful case.
Totnes Army Cadets
It was a great pleasure to visit the Totnes division of the Devon Army Cadet Force with the lord Lieutenant Captain Eric Dancer. I was able to meet the volunteers, many with years of experience in our armed forces, who contribute so much to the Cadets and provide a wide range of opportunities from practical survival skills and camps to essential first aid skills. It was an honour to present the Cadets with their first aid certificates and see the (very realistic) scenarios that cadets learn to take in their stride.
SaMS Saturday Music School
During a visit to SaMS, Saturday Music School at KEVICC, I met with a team of committed professional music tutors and a volunteer group that run the 30 sessions a year every Saturday in term time. SaMS is a unique charity offering all children the opportunity to explore music and enjoy playing with others, no matter their ability or background.
I was greatly impressed by the fact that around 150 children, aged from 5 to 18 years old, are involved in a variety of musical styles, which are open to all young people that wish to attend. I saw a number of the group sessions including African drumming and singing for 6 – 9 year olds, the choir, wind band, folk group, Junior Jazz and percussion group. Students are able to try out different skills in a relaxed but purposeful environment. I chatted to students and tutors and was surprised that this was something quite special to Totnes, with a policy of including any children that want to take part.
Lewis Riley, the director, has worked with SaMS over the last ten years and has seen how the access to a musical education can influence children across all walks of life. Unfortunately KEVICC will no longer be able to subsidise SaMS to the extent that it has in the past. More funding or sponsorship needs be found, otherwise fees will have to rise.
Photo by kind permission of the South Hams Newspaper Group
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery held at my Totnes constituency office. If you would like to make an appointment for one of my future surgeries, please telephone 01803 868378 and arrange an appointment.
Photo courtesy of South Hams Newspapers Ltd
Dartmouth Leisure Centre
On Saturday I attended the Sports Taster Day held by the Dartmouth and District Sports Association, where I met representatives of many of the clubs. It was a most enjoyable day.
You can see me here in the Dartmouth Yacht Club's Kayak with John Bretherton (Chair of the Dartmouth & District Sports Association) in a brand new Lottery Funded boat.
I also met with Sir Geoffrey Newman, Chair of Trustees of Dartmouths proposed Indoor Swimming Trust and Kathleen Heeley who is preparing for a sponsored sky-dive jump from 10,000 feet in aid of fundraising for the new pool.
Brixham Surgery
I held another Brixham surgery at Brixham Conservative Club. If you would like to make an appointment for one of my future surgeries, please telephone 01803 868378 and arrange an appointment.
de Verde Technologies
This was an opportunity to visit local entrepreneurs. I was particularly interested to see the potential that could be delivered by de Verde Technologies and to hear about their hydrogen on demand device.
Meeting at Churston Farm Shop Cafe
I held an open meeting at Churston Farm Shop Cafe by kind permission of Caroline and Richard Haddock . It was good to include local councillors in a discussion of issues ranging from the proposed redevelopments in Churston and the proposed closure of Chestnut Primary School.
Totnes Surgery
If you would like to make an appointment for one of my future surgeries, please telephone 01803 868378 and arrange an appointment
Dartmouth Trust & Tenants
This was a well attended meeting with residents and business tenants of the Trust to hear their concerns about changes imposed by the Trust. I then met with trustees at the Trust's offices in order to represent tenants' views and listen to the arguments put forward by the trustees in order to explore any areas for compromise. Concerns discussed were the scale and pace of rent increases, the impact of the change to annual tenancies and the change in the detail of the tenancy agreements. Many residents no longer felt 'at home' and many felt that they would no longer be able to make any improvements. There were concerns that Dartmouth Trust properties would no longer be within financial reach for local people and that a much valued route into affordable local housing would be lost. Businesses raised similar concerns and in addition wanted to be able to negotiate directly with the Trust about rent increases rather than with a commercial valuer. They also called for greater transparency regarding estimates arranged for repairs and redecoration for which tenants were partly liable. There was great concern that a change to full market value would lead to a loss of independent traders and that Dartmouth could become yet another clone town.
It was clear that the Trustees have a difficult task in trying to balance their legal duties to raise money for the beneficiaries of the Trust against the best interests of Dartmouth businesses and residential tenants. I hope that in interpreting their duty to obtain 'best rent' they will take advantage of the considerable flexibility allowed by the Charity Commission in terms of timing and consider whether best rent could also encompass what is 'best for Dartmouth' so that the character of the Town and its commitment to allow affordable rent for local people can be maintained. I understand that none of the Trust's beneficiaries are pressing for the current increases in rents.
Clearly this is a matter for the Trust and tenants to negotiate and I have no powers other than to represent constituents views. I am grateful to the trustees for taking the time to listen to concerns and their commitment to consider the points raised. Our meeting was very constructive.
Schumacher College
I met the Rt Hon Chris Huhne MP, Secretary of State of Energy and Climate Change, at a visit to Schumacher College to hear about their new MA in Economics for Transition. Schumacher College attracts students and visiting teachers from all over the world and provides a vigorous critique of the current economic growth models and alternative schools of economic thought. The Economics of Transition programme is collaboration between Schumacher College, the new Economics Foundation and Transition network and the University of Plymouth Business School.
Photo: Sarah and Charlie McConnell (Director, Schumacher)
Riverford Farm
I met with Guy Watson the founder of Riverford Farm and I toured the site. Riverford supports 400 jobs in the local economy but also supports a number of ethical organic producers in this country and beyond. Guy's passion for fresh locally produced food led to the formation of Riverford organic food boxes being delivered to households up and down the country. In addition to the undoubted benefits of their organic farming I was able to visit Riverford Farm Kitchen, where one can enjoy a veritable feast of freshly prepared vegetables. Guy spoke enthusiastically about the cooking of vegetables and said a diced celeriac with an onion and some vegetable stock, cooked for 15 minutes makes a wonderful soup. He was right!
Guy Watson holding celeriac.
Opening of "The Lamb"
It was a great pleasure to attend the opening of "The Lamb" Totnes. Congratulations to Ed Vidler and Sue Holmes of the Totnes Development Trust and to all the volunteers from Totnes Healthy Futures and horticulturists from School Farm. Totnes Healthy Futures project proposes a practical solution to integrating local food production, promoting well being and health, horticulture and re-skilling the community in order to increase food localisation and greater resilience. Totnes Development Trust is working in close partnership with Leatside Surgery, where the medical team will be able to prescribe a therapeutic opportunity through gardening. Yet again Totnes shows what can be done when communities come together to provide opportunities to improve the physical, mental and social well being.
Sarah with Andrew More 
After the opening of "The Lamb" it was a great pleasure to visit Leechwell Gardens with Sue Holmes and hear about exciting future projects from the Totnes Development Trust.
Totnes Surgery
I had another busy surgery in Totnes today. If you would like to attend a future surgery, please do contact my constituency office on 01803 868378.
Brixham Coastguard
I met with a delegation from Brix
ham Coastguard and Transport Minister, Mike Penning MP in Westminster yesterday to discuss the future of the Coastguard services. We presented Mike Penning MP with over 2,000 petition forms from the local community that had been collected through a local newspaper campaign.
The meeting seemed very constructive and we were heartened that the Minster appeared open to suggestions for the consultation and that any alternative ideas that the Brixham Coastguards came up with would be viewed favourably.
I think the delegation from Brixham made a powerful and compelling case for the work of Brixham Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre to continue. The Minister listened to their concerns and has committed to looking at their proposals. I hope that we can find a positive way forward to solve this issue.
Community Groups Working In Partnership With Torbay
Many thanks to Caroline Taylor, Deputy Chief Executive of Torbay Council and to Mark Richards, project manager for arranging visits to so many community groups working in partnership with Torbay:
DASS, (Domestic Abuse Support Service) and MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference)
Many thanks to those who took the time to talk about how the local support service has helped them to break free from abusive relationships and gain the confidence to move forward with their lives. It was encouraging to hear so many women saying that they would not change the service, only make sure that more people get to hear about it.
If you need to talk to someone or know someone who needs help, then call 01803 217614 to speak to the domestic abuse support service locally or National Women's Aid 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247
Jatis Project and Inside Out
These successful projects in Torbay are helping those battling with addiction or other issues to get back on their feet through safe housing and support. Meeting those that use their services it is clear how much they are valued. It is very hard to break the cycle of offending or drug use without a safe place to live and support to change long standing addictions. As a result offenders are less likely to reoffend and more likely to successfully come off drugs and many residents are able to return to voluntary work or employment.
SPOT and Quest
These are projects that enable those who use services in the Bay to train others to do their jobs more effectively. In order to be able to have a say in the future of how our health services are to be commissioned and run in the future, it will be especially important for those that use these services to be able to have the ability to take part in Healthwatch and Local Authorities.
Alcohol Services in Torbay
It was good to meet with all the groups who are working to deal with the problem of alcohol misuse in Torbay. Safer Nights Torbay, the Licensing team and the police as well as those involved in treatment for those with problem drinking. Torbay has a good record in trying to tackle alcohol related ill health and disorder from all angles but it is clear that action to stop the sale of ultra cheap alcohol is urgently needed.
Riviera Housing
I met with Molly Holmes, Chief Executive of Riviera Housing to discuss constituents' housing issues.
Advice Surgeries
Today I held surgeries in Totnes and Brixham to discuss a range of local and national issues. I am grateful to all those who take the time to come to see me.
I also visited Coombe Bank in Brixham to meet all the residents and hear their grave concerns at the prospect of moving to a 'floating warden' scheme. Although there has been no residential warden for some time, the residents have benefitted from 2 permanent members of staff.
Devon LMC
Meeting with Devon LMC ( Local Medical Committee)
This was a meeting with doctors from across Devon to discuss the proposed changes in the Health and Social Care Bill. Devon has yet to finalise the shape of the groups of practices that will form into commissioning consortia. In Torbay, GPs have been commissioning care for some time as a nationally recognised pilot of 'integrated care', but they have done so with support from the PCT.
Devon is fortunate to have many committed clinicians who are keen to design services for their patients, my concern is about those parts of the country where this enthusiasm is not in place or where PCTs are no longer able to focus on helping them to become established.
Foxhole Community Hall
On Saturday 7th January, I held an open surgery at Foxhole Community Centre which was a mixture of a round circle community discussion and some private meetings. I am grateful to Cllrs Jeannette Richards, David Thomas and John Thomas, who also attended.
Home Start & Surgeries
On Friday there were two surgeries, the first was in Kingsbridge followed by a visit to Home Start where I learnt about the help they give families in the South Hams and I gained a better understanding of the pressures they are under and the impact that closure would have upon referrals for Social Services and Medical services.
The afternoon was spent at a surgery in Totnes and then the evening found me back in Kingsbridge where I was told the news that Devon County Council had decided to listen to the community and put a hold on Pay and Display. This came about as a result of the tireless campaign by the community who took the trouble to write and lobby on this issue. This was a welcome result for Kingsbridge and Dartmouth residents and I congratulate the Council on their change of heart.
Brixham for Global Action
In the evening I met with "Brixham for Global Action" where we discussed a range of subjects from Climate Change through to the cycle tracks across Torbay.
For more details about the campaign in Brixham, please contact Helen Barrett on 01803 859852.
AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca was the next port of call. Here in Brixham there is a continual evolution of biomedical science and Paul Duckett, the Manager gave me a tour of the premises and I was able to see the importance of biotechnology and research to Brixham.
Greenway Ferries
It was then on to meet Will Ford of Greenway Ferries to discuss green tourism, which has been one of his many interests since he began working in conjunction with the National Trust and Agatha's Christie's house. Will has gone on to be a director of The English Riviera Tourism Company and we discussed how marketing of Torbay could be developed.
Brixham Fishermen
Today I was in Brixham at the Fishermen's Mission, catching up with the local fishermen and crabbers, to discuss the local EU directives that can have a devastating effect on their livelihoods. I was pleased to hear the trawler men are happy with the EU negotiations that took place in December, but I will continue to put their concerns to the Minister and lobby for an end to the indefensible requirement for them to discard dead but healthy fish that is above quota. Other means of preserving our fish stocks are urgently needed.
Sustainable South Brent
My final appointment for the day was with Sustainable South Brent where they brought me up to speed with local environmental projects as well as issues of National concern and to tell me about their community composting project, community renewable energy project and concerns about rural transport.
For more information www.sustainablesouthbrent.org.uk
South Brent
I would like to thank Mr & Mrs Barclay for hosting a lunch where I was able to catch up with some of the residents of South Brent and it gave me an opportunity to discuss matters local matters.
In the afternoon I met with some residents who live in the centre of South Brent, originally a woollen and market centre that has now evolved into a thriving community just off the Devon Expressway. We discussed the difficulties of parking in a rural village and the lack of parking facilities for the town residents.
Cool Recovery Carers
Later in the morning I met Cool Recovery Carers to talk about their experiences of caring for relatives affected by mental illness. We discussed the difficulties that carers experience when a member of the family has a mental health problem and how communication between mental health professionals could be improved, given that one in four people are affected by mental health issues. There is also the urgent need to stop the stigma and raise the status of mental health within the NHS to the same level as conditions such as diabetes and cancer – particularly where there are acute problems such as psychosis and schizophrenia. The meeting was co-ordinated by Cool Recovery, the local independent mental health charity which has been supporting mental health carers in South Devon since 1999. For more information www.coolrecovery.org.uk or telephone 01803 299511
South Brent
I spent today in South Brent and my first meeting was with a group of people who were concerned that I would vote against the hunting ban being repealed. I made a promise prior to the election that I would canvas opinion and vote with the majority on this particular issue. I have not deviated from my promise, and will support, when the time comes, the majority view. I agreed that I would put on my website, a short article from both sides where they can express their views. In the meantime please contact me by email sarah.wollaston.mp@parliament.uk or by post to register your "vote".
Flavel Hall
In the evening I gave a talk to the Dartmouth and Kingswear Society where I gave a talk about my first nine months in Parliament, aptly titled "Swimming with Sharks!".
There was an audience of over 200 people and I would like to thank Liane and John Baldock for their hard work in organising such a well run event, there was even time for a shark-related quiz which raised £102 for the RNLI.
Picture by kind permission of South Hams Newspapers
Brixham Coastguard
I met with the team at Brixham Coastguard following the news that the centre has been earmarked for closure during the consultation on the future of the Coastguard. Brixham is an important Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, I believe the station to be very valued and I am concerned that the proposals will lead to an over reliance on IT. Local knowledge is very important for our leisure craft, inshore fisherman and water related tourism, so if anyone knows of an instance where local knowledge has been central in a rescue, please do contact me. Individual responses are a great help in a campaign, so if you have signed the petition, please do write to myself and the Minister, Mike Penning as well.
Picture courtesy of the Herald Express
Froward Point
I really enjoyed my visit to Froward Point where trained and qualified volunteer watch keepers share daylight watches operating every day of the year. Through close cooperation with the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA), NCI at Froward Point earned its "Declared Facility Status" in 2007, enabling them to become an integral part of the National Search and Rescue structure. They also keep a watch in case any walker using the coastal path should be involved in an emergency. During the Easter recess I am planning a charity walk along the coastal paths to raise money for several charities associated with the sea and coast, Froward Point being one of them as the Station is totally dependent on the generosity of individuals, companies, and other organisations for funding. I will keep you informed of my itinerary if anyone would like to join me on the walk for an hour or so, to help raise funds.
Merry Christmas!
Best wishes for Christmas and a Happy New Year from Sarah, Nina, Catriona and Emily.
Thank you for all your support over the past year and we look forward to hearing from you in 2011.
Totnes Surgery
I held an all day surgery in Totnes. If you would like to make an appointment to attend a surgery, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378. At one of my surgeries, Simon came to see me as he had been fighting deportation after having lived in England for a total of 13 years and had been part of the Totnes community for 10 of those years. His friends in Totnes brought the case to my attention and eventually in September he was granted indefinite leave to remain. This is just one of many types of problems that are brought to me at my surgeries; I deal with subjects ranging from asylum through to zimmer frames. My post bag and surgeries cover many diverse problems and issues.
I am not always as successful as people would wish, as sometimes people's expectations are wrongly addressed. Planning for instance is dealt with by local government and your local councillors are your best point of contact, you will find the conservative councillors' details on my website under "Contact us"
Dartmouth Surgery
It was good to return to the Dartmouth Apprentice to hold a Constituency Surgery. I also met with Dr Graham Lockerbie from Dartmouth Medical Centre to discuss medical services in Dartmouth and to discuss his views on the future of GP Commissioning as he has a longstanding expertise in this area.
Britannia Royal Naval College
Britannia has been delivering 'courageous leaders with the spirit to fight and win', since 1863. The importance of Britannia to the Royal Navy and to Dartmouth cannot be underestimated. OF course it is an enormous relief that the college did not suffer under the Strategic Defence and Security Review but that should not be a cause for complacency. It will be vital for the college to maximise its training opportunities. Currently Britannia welcomes trainee officers from 20 nations but there is capacity to broaden the scope to include Initial Naval Training to other naval recruits and to further partnerships with local colleges and the University of Plymouth.
To secure a long term future for Britannia as a training base, we will need to allow it to expand. Whilst recognising the architectural importance of the Naval College, the site must be allowed to develop in order for it to increase its capacity for training.
Kingswear Primary School
It was a great pleasure to open the new classroom at Kingswear Primary and to listen to a wonderful presentation from the children. Their snowman will now be visiting Parliament and I hope that children from both Chestnut and Kingswear will be able to visit me in Westminster.
Chestnut Primary School, Brixham
I met with Head, Glen Paige and teacher, Bill Callaghan to see Chestnut Primary for myself, to listen to the concerns of teachers and to visit their newly opened playpod.
I am in no doubt that small schools are really valued by children and their parents and hope that the Council will act quickly to reassure families once the consultation on the future of schools in Brixham is complete. It is a sad reality that the number of primary school age children in Brixham is no longer sufficient to support the current number of schools and so all the options need to be considered. If you have a view, please let me know.
Westminster
I usually return to Devon on Fridays to attend Constituency surgeries and visit community groups and it is always difficult to justify cancelling Constituency visits to attend so called 'sitting Fridays' unless there is an issue being debated that has local significance or has a great deal of local support.
This week I wanted to stay to support Adrian Sanders' Private Member's Bill on Fire Safety for the protection of tenants. Over 300 people die in fires every year, two thirds of these are in people's homes. A working smoke detector drastically reduces the risk of death in a house fire and I am disappointed that the safety measures proposed in the Bill were not passed as the Bill ran out of time. It is rare for Private Member's Bills to succeed but they do raise the profile of important issues and I am still hopeful that the Government will consider introducing at least some of the proposals.
Foxhole Surgery
It was a great pleasure to revisit the Kings Ash Community Centre and to hold a a surgery in Paignton. I hold regular surgeries rotating around this large constituency. My next surgeries will be in Dartmouth and Totnes, but if you would like me to come to your area, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378
Torbay Care Trust
I held a further meeting with Anthony Farnsworth and Julie Dent from the Torbay Care Trust. Torbay is part of a national pilot looking at how to improve the way that care is delivered to our most vulnerable residents. They have been part of an innovative scheme where the health service and social care budgets are 'pooled' and staff work closely together with shared offices and a joint health and social care record.
As a result of this close working, the services are not in competition but can make sure that they design a better way of helping patients. The results of this pilot have been very impressive. In Torbay it is possible to have access to a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, district nurse or social worker within three and a half hours if this is urgently needed. As a result, patients are far less likely to be delayed in hospital waiting for home care facilities or to be admitted as an emergency.
I am very keen to hear your views of the services delivered by the Torbay Care Trust, so please write or email me if you would like to let me know your own experience.
Dartington Hall Trust
It was good to catch up with Celia Atherton from the Dartington Trust to discuss their plans to host a series of "Great Debates". These will cover a range of political topics from the AV referendum to the future of the Non Proliferation Treaty.
Devon Rape Crisis
I met with representatives from Devon Rape Crisis to hear about the lack of services for victims of rape and sexual assualt across Devon. Whilst there are nationally recognised services for those subject to domestic violence through ADVA, the same is sadly not true for sexual violence for which the only access to help is a free phone helpline staffed 7pm to 10pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
http://www.therapeandsexualabusehelpline.co.uk
I will be campaigning for Devon Rape Crisis to be supported to set up similar facilities to those already available in Cornwall, with support available to all victims of these crimes.
Meeting with Citizens' Advice Bureau Paignton
Brian Dean from Paignton CAB and Nick Dilworth from Totnes came to discuss the changes to housing benefit and housing allowance. We also looked at the implications of the wider changes to a Universal Benefit and the fears that have been raised about the Work Capability Test. CAB now has a legal aid contract to help with housing benefits and debt advice. Their staff and volunteers do an extraordinary job.
There is no doubt that the changes have worried many people, particularly from those on ESA or on IB. I have visited an ATOS centre to see the system for myself and have met with Chris Grayling MP to discuss some of the concerns raised in my surgeries and in correspondence.
A simplification of the benefit rules will be a good move. For years I have witnessed people trapped in the benefits system; better off not taking a job. Often they realise that although it may only be a small amount on paper, as a result of losing other benefits or having to factor in travel costs, work just does not pay. This cannot be right. I accept there are areas of high unemployment and many examples of people trying repeatedly to find work without success, but it is also true that many vacancies, for example in care homes, have to be filled by those from Europe as it is impossible to fill the posts.
In 1996, in the USA, Bill Clinton drastically reformed welfare and within 5 years, the number on benefits halved and by 2007 the Congressional Budget Office found that the incomes of families pushed out of welfare had increased in real terms by 35%.
It is a tragedy that 1.4 million people have been on out of work benefits for at least 9 years in the past decade and benefit payments to out of work households now cost £85 billion per year. It is no longer affordable, but I have no doubt that the transition back to work will be difficult for those who have been abandoned for years by the previous system.
Meeting with Kate Mason from KEVICC School
I met with Principal, Kate Mason to discuss the ongoing difficulty faced by Devon Schools in the F40 group. Devon schools are 4th from the bottom in the amount they receive per pupil, which leaves a significant gap in funding. Schools can access further support for pupils who qualify for free school meals, but many of those who might be eligible may not inform the school for a number of reasons. With KEVICC's new cashless system your children's privacy is guaranteed. Even if children do not wish to have a free meal, it is really important to register their eligibilty as there are often other benefits such as help with school trips.
Anyone in receipt of the following can register:-
- Income Support (IS)
- Employment Support Allowance (Income Related)
- Child Tax Credits without Working Tax Credit with an annual taxable income (as assessed by HMRC) of less than £16,190.
- Income based Job Seekers Allowance (IBJSA)
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
Please follow this link to register for Free School Meals
For an application form or to make a general enquiry to Devon County Council about Free School Meals telephone 0845 155 1015 or email edmail@devon.gov.uk
If you would like the school to help you register for Free School Meals please contact 01803 869200 ext 219.
Totnes Surgery
Saturday 30th October was a chance to catch up with Constituents in my Totnes Surgery. I hold regular surgeries in Totnes, Brixham and Kingsbridge but hope to also hold surgeries in Dartmouth, Paignton and South Brent. If you would like an appointment please call Nina on 01803 868378
Dartmouth Apprentice
Another inspirational organisation is the Dartmouth Apprentice. It was a pleasure to meet Nina Stanesby and many of the Apprentices at St Barnabus in Newcomen Rd. If you have not yet visited this restaurant, expect to be stunned by the interior and by the achievements of the Apprentices and guest artists. 100% of the restaurant's profits are reinvested to help unemployed people. In addition to a training centre and superb restaurant the centre also provides housing in 11 self contained flats supporting people who are homeless and who need a temporary residence whilst they find work. Few of the apprentices have ever worked successfully, many have left school without qualifications, experienced homelessness or been trapped in long term unemployment. Their achievements speak for themselves and the restaurant deserves its success.
Dartmouth Caring
I met again with Dee Nutt and the team from Dartmouth Caring. 18% of Dartmouth residents are older than 85 and many do not have a social network or close family to help them to remain independent. I heard about the work of their Bridge worker in providing a vital link between the NHS and community and the way that this has reduced the need for hospital admissions. There is no CAB or Age UK presence in the town so Dartmouth Caring provides vital signposting and advice. Part funded by charity and part by the NHS, they would like to expand their role but recognise that having their core as a voluntary organisation is the key to being a community based organisation. Dartmouth Caring has been showcasing the ‘Big Society' for years.
Transition Town Totnes and the TRESOC wind project
It was good to meet with Hal Gillmore and Don Lang from the Business and Livelihoods group to discuss issues ranging from the distorting effect of Capital Gains Tax in the marketplace for agricultural land to local housing and how to increase investment in local green technologies through Green Angels.
I then met Ian Bright, the MD of TRESOC (The Totnes Renewable Energy Society) and travelled to see the site of the proposed partnership wind project near Luscombe Cross. There was no doubting the suitability of the site as far as wind energy was concerned and my brolly is now beyond repair! I feel that community ownership of renewable projects is essential in order to transform attitudes to wind power and hope that the project will receive the support that it needs. Peak oil is a stark reality and we need to act now on infrastructure for a better future.
Dartmouth Food Festival
Congratulations to David Jones and the organising committee for another fantastic year highlighting the best of South Devon. I can now prepare a crab, even if next time I hope not to shower the audience with flying shells. Thank you to all who contributed to my question and answer session on Food and Farming Issues at the Festival.
(A special plea to the lady who asked for a follow up surgery appointment, please could you ring Nina on 01803 868378 as I have the wrong number for you.)
Totnes Citizens Advice Bureau
I met with Emma Handley at the CAB offices at Follaton. They are providing an essential service but clearly need to have more space. Emma showed me their cramped consulting rooms and we were able to discuss their plans to expand for the future.
Park Homes
I met with Mrs Hill to discuss the many problems faced by residents of Park Homes, most notably issues relating to the fees that have to be paid to site owners upon the sale of pitches as these act as a perverse incentive for owners to aim for a rapid turnover in pitches. Park Home residents have insufficient protection and are in a very difficult position if the site owner does not maintain standards at a site or makes unreasonable demands for payment of utility bills.
Dr Sam Barrell, Baywide Company
This was a further meeting to look at how GP commissioning can provide real clinical leadership in the NHS and how we attract excellent doctors into commissioning groups.
Meeting with Anthony Farnsworth, Torbay Care Trust
International experience demonstrates that integrating health and social care delivers better care for vulnerable elderly patients. Torbay has been in the forefront of a nationwide series of pilots looking at how this can be done in the UK and I am keen to promote their success so that their work can continue when Health Services move towards GP commissioning. Torbay has drastically reduced the number of people over 65 years of age that need emergency hospital admission and has the lowest rate of hospital deaths of any local authority in England. I am hoping that the Care Trust will be able to give evidence to the Health Select Committee so that their excellent results will be taken into account when designing future services.
HRH The Princess Royal
The Princess Royal visited Dartmouth for the official launch of the Grand Heritage voyage in memory of Operation Tiger. She was welcomed aboard the Fairmile by the Director of Greenway Ferries, Mr Will Ford, who set up his business five years ago with just one boat. The Fairmile is part of our heritage, being one of the last remaining Rescue Motor Launches (RML) still in service. Built in 1941, she saw active service during the war. During her visit, the Princess Royal heard about operation Tiger from local historian, John Risden before unveiling a plaque on the vessel. This was a great day to be in Dartmouth, especially following the news that the Royal Navy has no plans to close Britannia Royal Naval College. Immediately following the Strategic Defence Review I met with Liam Fox, the Secretary of State, who was able to confirm that Britannia is to stay open.
South Devon College & the New University Centre
It was a great pleasure to revisit South Devon College and tour their stunning new University Centre with Principal, Stephen Criddle.
I then met with Student Representatives to discuss the Browne Report's proposals for University Funding and issues like EMA and transport costs. The variability in support received for travel was a serious issue encountered by students and especially the difference between funding for those living in different Local Authorities and again, many students would prefer free travel or more heavily subsidised travel to EMA.
Elizabeth Raikes CEO Torbay Council
I met with the executive team at Torbay council, including Elizabeth Raikes, Caroline Taylor and Charles Uzzel to discuss the many issues raised by Constituents, from individual issues like parking in Waterleat Road to broader concerns such as the new recycling scheme and the impact of proposed changes to the NHS and the spending review.
South Devon Steiner School
My abiding memory of my tour of the South Devon Steiner School will be walking around their beautiful vegetable gardens and seeing children high in the branches of an apple tree. They do have a tree policy, but it is not a prescriptive ‘do not climb them' but rather guidance on which ones are not safe to climb and how high it makes sense to stop. How refreshing. Whilst the philosophy behind Steiner Education may not suit those who seek a more conventional curriculum, there is much to commend and certainly room within our education system for more choice. Students in year 10 were keen to defend the benefits of their curriculum and I know many local parents as well as teachers at the school will welcome their bid for free school status so that Steiner Schooling is open to all, rather than restricted to those who can afford to pay.
Meeting with the Director of Public Health
I met with Dr Virginia Pearson, Director of Public Health in Devon and representatives from Devon and Cornwall County Councils, Police and Alcohol Services to discuss the possibilities for joint action on alcohol problems in the Peninsula. An estimated 23% of South West residents aged 16-24 are hazardous drinkers and 4% are dependent on alcohol. The statistics on violent crime, suicide, accidents and hospital admissions make depressing reading and I firmly believe that we are paying a very heavy price for cheap supermarket alcohol.
In Manchester, the councils are looking at introducing bye laws to regulate the cost of alcohol whilst in Middlesborough they are trying to change licensing laws to achieve the same result. It will be interesting to see the outcome of these projects which may yet fall foul of European Directives on competition law. There has been progress in Devon using alcohol banning orders and clearly the police need greater powers to restrict licensing in areas where there are problems with drunken violent behaviour. We desperately need an end to the madness of 24 hour drinking, which has benefitted no one.
South Devon Link Road
This was an opportunity to discuss the importance of the South Devon Link Road with transport Minister Norman Baker and to present a further joint briefing on the subject with Anne Marie Morris MP and Mayor, Nick Bye. It was also an opportunity to discuss all the wider transport issues facing the Peninsula, especially the vital importance of the railway link and the vulnerability of the line at Dawlish, together with the importance of faster trains to London.
Over a cycle to the station we discussed the importance of safe cycling routes in promoting increased cycling; there is no point creating a route that no one will use. It was reassuring to know that bikeability will continue to be able to provide high quality cycle training for children and adults in Devon. At the ‘Cycle Demonstration Town' presentation, Exeter was able to show what can be achieved if there is a determination to prioritise cycling and provide good quality facilities for storage.
Party Conference
I travelled to Birmingham on Sunday for the Party Conference. If you have not been there before, it is a great opportunity to attend fringe meetings on just about any subject that interests you, and so much more than the set piece debates reported on television.
It was a great place to meet with as many groups as possible with an interest in the Health White Paper and of course to catch up with political friends and colleagues.
I presented at a fringe event for the 'Ovarian Cancer Action' to debate how we improve survival, early diagnosis and support for cancer sufferers and to promote their 'remember the symptoms' campaign. Follow the link for more information about their campaign.
I met with representatives from nursing, dentistry, medicine, pharmacy and charities and attended round table discussions with Stephen Dorrell, Chair of the Health Select Committee. I also attended a meeting with the GMC to discuss the problems caused by the Working Time Directive and the scandal of doctors from EU countries being able to work in the UK without any tests of either competence or language skills.
It was not all about Health and the NHS as I am also trying to arrange a series of political debates in conjunction with the Dartington Trust. This was an opportunity to try and get some ideas off the ground.
Next week I will be back in Westminster.
Paignton Community College
I met with Principal, Jane English and members of the sixth form for a discussion of topical issues like EMA, which in common with other sixth forms, the majority felt was due for an overhaul.
I have agreed to take forward their concern about the way that Health and Safety legislation is preventing students with coaching qualifications from providing voluntary coaching sessions out of school hours on school premises. Clear nonsense when these students are so keen to contribute to thier community.
Brixham Coastguard
This was an opportunity to tour one of Britain's busiest Coastguard Stations with the Rescue Co-ordination Centre Manager, Peter Davies and to hear about the work of the Coastguard and to learn how the traffic is monitored in one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.
Peter Davies, Mike Penning, and me!
RNLI Salcombe
Mike Penning and I visited the RNLI in Salcombe to meet with Adrian Carey, Divisional Inspector of Lifeboats and Graham Parker, Lifeboat Operations Manager and to tour the all weather boat with Chris Winzar, Station Coxain.
I would like to pay tribute to the service and dedication of the entire lifeboat crew and their support team, including Lynn Thurtle, Chair of Fundraising, David Grose and Andrew Arthur.
Hope Cove Rescue Boat
Transport Minister, Mike Penning, kept a promise to come and visit the Rescue Boat at Hope Cove and discuss some constructive proposals for keeping this much valued local rescue boat in service. He met with Ian Pedrick, crewmen, local supporters, Councillors and, of course, the boat.
Ian Pedrick, Mike Penning, John Carter
Kingsbridge Community College
The New English Centre at Kingsbridge Community College was opened by the remarkable poet, playwright and novelist, Simon Armitage CBE.
Headmaster, Roger Pope paid tribute to the many people within the school and beyond who had made the project possible, but missed out one of the greatest contributors of all; himself
Leatside Surgery
It was good to catch up with the team at Leatside Surgery, Totnes to discuss the Health White Paper and take note of questions raised about the details behind the proposals.
IPCC
I met with the Regional Director of the Independent Police Complaints Commission, and with Lianne Corris, their Parliamenta Officer, to hear about the work of the IPCC. This was an opportunity to learn more about the changes to the way complaints are handled and to discuss individual concerns that have been raised by constituents
Collaton St Mary Primary School
I enjoyed meeting with the children and Headteacher, Penny Millington at Collaton St Mary Primary School for the Record-breaking Roast Dinner Day. Wednesday is roast dinner day and the most popular meal of the week. Teachers have noticed that those children who have a good lunch have a more settled afternoon and are able to learn better. Staff volunteer for lunchtime duty to reinforce a quality lunchtime with a freshly prepared, locally sourced food.
It was wonderful to see a school committed to a return to sociable lunchtimes, complete with tablecloths, fresh flowers and a commitment to teach the children where their food comes from.
British Medical Association
Today I met with doctors from across the South West region at the British Mediacl association's headquarters in Taunton.
We discussed the proposals under the White paper for radical changes in the way that the NHS is organised. Whilst recognising that the proposals raise many opportunities for greater local involvement in the NHS, the doctors , from a wide range of specialities, wished to share some of their concerns and give constructive feedback.
Kings Ash Primary School
I met with Headmistress, Tracey Jones, Deputy Head, Lin Fenner and School Governor, Wendy Burridge for another tour of Kings Ash Primary School. It was a great pleasure to meet so many of the children and hear them talk about their work in Science, English, Maths and the Arts.
The School is looking forward to their next Ofsted visit to demonstrate the extraordinary improvements they are achieving within the school. Their take home message to me was that they would like to see a halt to constantly changing curriculums and an end to pointless data collection and undue replication. Like so many of their fellow Primary Schools, they find Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) checks overly cumbersome and a real barrier to taking on volunteers with waiting times at 8 weeks. The knock on effect of this are plain to see; although the school is making great strides in their efforts to improve attendance, their volunteers for their "walking bus" to school need to wait at least 8 weeks for their CRB checks to be processed
The Met Office
I had a meeting with the Met Office team at their new headquarters in Exeter to hear about the important work that they do do, both nationally and internationally. The Met Office employs 1,200 people in South Devon, many living within the Totnes constituency. Several issues were discussed, like the survival of the Slapton Line and flooding, a real risk to our community. It was also good to talk to Dr. Vicky Pope, the Head of Climate Change Advice to hear her views on the science behind climate change predictions.
Anyone interested in looking in greater detail at some of these important issues can follow the links below to the Met Office site.
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climatechange/science
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/climatechange/guide
Kingsbridge Community College
Thank you to Karen Sewell for her kind invitation to Kingsbridge Community College. I enjoyed my visit, where I met Year 13 students for a discussion of issues, ranging from university funding and further education to Trident and fox hunting. A ballot of this Year 13 group showed 33 in favour of a repeal to the hunting ban and 31 in favour of retaining the ban. I hope to welcome the sixth form up to Parliament during the next year.
Macmillan Coffee Morning
It was good to catch up with Jackie Parfett and Paul Westlake at Coasters Coffee in the centre of Kingsbridge during their Cancer Care Coffee Morning and to support the Macmillan's extraordinary work.
Big Wildlife Garden Award Presentation
Congratulations to the children and families at Kingsbridge Community Primary School who are the winners of the "Big Wildlife Garden" School Competition organised by Natural England. I toured the Never Ending Nature Garden and heard about the transformation undertaken by Paul Brizio and Martin Langley together with Janice King, the science teacher. This was a well deserved award.
Adult & Community Learning Centre
Today I visited the Adult and Community Learning Centre to see the extraordinary work carried out at ACE (Access to Community Education).
Thank you to Jenny Harriman and her team and all the members of ACL for all their remarkable work on behalf of the community.
Jenny Harriman, Karen, Susan, Sylvia and Tessa
Robotic milking
It was a pleasure to catch up with the Perratons at Winslade Farm, to tour their new milking parlour and discuss the proposal for a cull of badgers in areas of high incidence of Bovine TB. This would not lead to the extinction of this much loved animal, but I do believe it would allow for the reduction in TB which would eventually benefit cattle and badges alike.
Farmers in the South Hams are also having to cope with low milk prices (receiving just 23 pence per litre from Dairy Crest), whilst themselves having to face a doubling in their feed costs. Having lost17 out of 30 in calf heifers to TB, it is not hard to see why so many dairy farms across the South Hams have closed in recent years.
West Alvington Parish Council
It was an honour to be invited to West Alvington Parish Council to thank Gwen Doyle and David Dainty for their long standing work as Parish Councillors. Gwen having served 33 years and David, 26 years! Following a presentation to Gwen and David there was an opportunity to catch up with local concerns and in particular to discuss the consultation around the proposed badger cull.
TOR2
I met with Alastair Campbell, Director of TOR2 to put some tough questions to him regarding Torbay's new recycling scheme. I should stress at the outset, that I do support the need to increase recycling in the Bay.
Torbay currently recycles 37% and if that can be increased to at least 50% by 2012, that can only be a good thing. Alastair explained that a similar scheme in South Wales led to a massive improvement in recycling over a 10 week period and halved the amount that had to go to landfill.
The main issues of people in Brixham and Paignton have been around the inflexibility of the current regime, particularly where people are short of space and have serious problems getting through to the Call Centre. Alastair explained to me that it normally takes 4 cycles of rubbish collections (8 weeks) for teething troubles to be ironed out. He has assured me that consultations will take place to look at solutions where space is at a premium, such as in flats and terraced houses. If you are having difficulties with lifting waste, TOR2 are keen to hear from you.
The following is a link to their website www.tor2.co.uk. They can be emailed on wastedoctors@tor2.co.uk or in writing to TOR2 Customer Centre, Aspen Way, Yalberton Industrial Estate, Paignton, TQ4 7QR. The Call Centre telephone number is 01803 207900. If you have trouble resolving an issue with TOR2 please let me know.
Amnesty International
South Devon Amnesty Group have been highlighting the international problem of forced evictions. Particularly the imminent demolition of 70 homes in Vidikovac, Serbia. It was good to meet with Wailim Wong, Sigrid Davidson, Matthew Pryn, Alison Forty and Brian Davidson. I also heard more about South Devon's other campaigns, focusing on prisoners of conscience, international women's health, abolition of the death penalty and campaigning against corporate abuses of Human Right's abroad.
Churston Ferrers Grammar School
Thank you to the Headmaster, Robert Owers and Keith Shephard for their invitation to Churston Grammar, another opportunity to answer questions from students about my work as an MP and to hear their views on EMA and university funding. The students were mostly in favour of some reforms to be made, but the greatest support was for a change in the funding of travel arrangements for younger people in the Bay. Increasingly, I hear from both young and older residents that perhaps a change to bus travel, which allows better access and fairness for both groups would be preferable, rather than expecting 17 year old students to pay adult fares to travel on local buses.
KEVICCs
Thank you to Kate Mason and David Traoke for their invitation to meet sixth formers to discuss their views on a range of issues from EMA, Academies and the future of Further Education funding, through to wider issues such as Bovine TB, hunting with hounds and Trident. A poll taken from today's group showed 92 in favour of retaining the ban, and 8 in favour of a repeal on the issue of hunting with hounds. KEVICCs
If you have a view on this or other issues affecting the constituency, please do get in touch.
Fishstock Brixham
Congratulations to Jim Portus and all the organising committee of Fishstock 2010, which was organised to raise money for the Fisherman's Mission. There was a fantastic diversity of fish, cookery and local produce.
It was an opportunity for me to make good on a pre-election promise to eat a Bigbury Oyster if I was successful at the polls. Delicious, even if I do still prefer my food not to be alive when I am eating it!
Photograph by kind permission of Karen Perrow
Talk by Admiral Sir Jonathan Tod
I attended a meeting at Totnes Boat Association Club House to hear a talk by Admiral Sir Jonathan Tod on the history of Strategic Defence Reviews. He has considerable experience having been directly involved in previous reviews. It was a fascinating insight into how the reviews are carried out and his concerns about the future of defence funding.
Meeting with Dr Virginia Pearson Joint Executive Director of Public Health
I met with Dr Pearson to discuss her thoughts on the most important public health issues facing the County. We discussed the importance of early years development to long term health, diet and nutrition and in particular the devastating impact of alcohol. The knock on effects of binge drinking and dependent drinking are felt throughout society and have the greatest impact on those who are already the most disadvantaged.
We have agreed to work together where possible to look at ways of tackling problem drinking in Devon
Dartmoor National Park Authority
Totnes is a wonderfully diverse constituency stretching from the hill farms of Dartmoor down to the coast. It was therefore a great pleasure to meet with Bill Hitchins, the Chairman of the Dartmoor National Park Authority to confirm my commitment to working with the National Park to preserve this beautiful amenity to both those who live and work there and those who use it for recreation.
Trying to strike a balance so that areas like Dartmoor do not become glorified theme parks but remain as living communities will be an important challenge for the future.
Kingsbridge Show
Congratulations to John Haddy, Peter Robson and team for an excellent Kingsbridge Show 2010.
Thank you to all those exhibitors and sponsors who put so much into making the Kingsbridge Show such a success.
It was a great opportunity to keep abreast with all the local concerns, ranging from the vital work of the Friends of South Hams Hospital through to catching up with important issues for the farming community with the NFU, farmers and local vets.
Totnes Surgery
Another busy surgery held at The Royal Seven Stars in Totnes.
If any of you have a concern you wish to discuss with me, please contact Nina Smith on 01803 868378 to book an appointment.
Meeting with Baywide Company
I met with the Baywide Company who represent all 21 member practices in the Torbay area. The Board consists of 8 GPs, a Practice Manger as well as representatives from the Torbay Care Trust to discuss the proposals of the White Paper.
I listened to local concerns about how the White Paper will be implemented and as a member of the Health Select Committee, I was very keen to hear views from not only those who commission services but from anyone who uses NHS services.
Political Forum
I will be regularly attending debates on a series of topical issues arranged by Conservative Association Political Forum.
These events are being organised by Ian Bramble. If you are interested in finding out more or attending an event, Ian can be contacted on 01548 856664.
Over the next few months, I am hoping to take part in debates ranging from the "Big Society" to depoliticising Town and Parish Councils, voting and the House of Lords reform.
Meeting with Dr Carol Tozer, Director of Children's Services and Cllr. Anna Tolchard
I met with the Director of Children's Services to discuss the progress they are making with Children's Services and to see how I can help in my role as an MP. There are huge challenges for the Bay with our high rates of unemployment and low GVA (Gross Value Added). Recent statistics on the level of binge drinking and hospital admissions in young people, as well as our high levels of teenage pregnancies, are of great worry. My own feeling is that we need to do more to tackle binge drinking if we are going to make any progress.
Please write to me if you have any thoughts as to how we should tackle this issue in Torbay
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue
I met with Group Commander Ray Harris to hear about the scope of their work including their operational commitments to fire and rescue as well as their enforcing role of ensuring the safety of commercial and public buildings . Ray is passionate about their educational role and prevention activities. I am committed to supporting the efforts to ensure that all Housing Associations and landlords install smoke detectors in their properties.
We also discussed the issue of Regional Control Centres and delays over the implementation of the Centres, currently costing large amounts of public without being operational; another example of hardware and software issues costing the tax payer vast amounts of money.
Totnes Development Trust
It was good to meet with Ed Vidler, Dave Chapman and Sue Holmes to discuss how concept ideas could be put into practice. We talked about the success of Leechwell Gardens and the exciting proposals of The Lamb as part of Totnes Healthy Futures. It would be wonderful to see this beautiful spot at the top of Totnes restored and revitalised. As always, the challenge is translating good ideas into community action.
A meeting with South Devon Health Care Trust
This was a helpful meeting with the Chairman of the Trust and an opportunity to discuss issues that are regularly raised in my post bag, such as parking and patient transport, as well as important clinical issues, like the availability of blockbusting therapy for those that have suffered from strokes and how the Trust feel about changes to the White Paper.
Parking charges at the Hospital raise between £500,000 and £600,000 a year, but for patients for whom these charges are causing difficulty, this can always be raised with the Ward Sister, who can if necessary arrange for a temporary parking permit to be issued. There are also special arrangements for those who need to attend repeatedly, such as patients with cancer or other serious long term conditions requiring frequent attendance at the Hospital. Parking is always under pressure and it appears that prior to having parking charges, the Hospital was frequently used a free 'Park and Ride' service which was in nobody's best interest. The Hospital aimed to keep their parking fees below those of other local council car parks. Clearly, if parking charges were completely waived, around half a million pounds would completely disappear from the Hospital budget. This will always be a thorny issue. I would be grateful for your thoughts.
Another area I raised with Peter Hildrew was the issue of Torbay Hospital's mobile phone policy. There is no evidence that mobile phones are a risk to patients; they may however be a nuisance. The current arrangements with patients having to pay very high charges to use the bedside phones are in my view completely unacceptable. Derriford Hospital have now lifted their mobile phone ban. Again, what do you think?
RAF Bolt Head
Thank you to Christopher Howell for all that he is doing to try and preserve the Bunker at Bolt Head as part of our national heritage.
Hope Cove was a World War II Radar Station and in the early 1950' was revamped as part of the RAF's Rotor Air Defence Scheme before the R6 Bunker was turned into a regional seat of Government during the Cold War era. Truly a chilling reminder of how close we came to Armageddon.
I do hope that Chris will succeed in his efforts to save this museum.
Hope Cove Weekend
A fun packed weekend! The swimming races went well. The sandcastles were a credit to the competitors and I met the crew from the Hope Cove Lifeboat.
Photos by kind permission of Nicole Marie Polec.
Dartmouth Royal Regatta
Thank you to Cllr Richard Rendle, the Mayor of Dartmouth for his kind invitation to the Dartmouth Royal Regatta where I watched the West of England Rowing Day
Recycling
I met with Ros Trapps who demonstrated the problem of being able to house the bins in a small space.
Riviera Housing Trust
Today I met with the Chief Executive of Riviera Housing Trust, Molly Holmes and was taken on a tour of their estate. We discussed the problems facing both tenants and the Trust. I heard about Dreamscheme which is a way of working with young people on estates to involve them in projects that benefit the community and saw the result of one of these schemes at Queen Elizabeth Drive.
Devon & Cornwall Housing Group
Devon & Cornwall Housing Group is the largest social landlord in the South West. In the Totnes constituency their housing stock of 3,000 homes is managed by Tor Homes.
Paul Crawford the Chief Executive of Devon & Cornwall Housing Group wanted to stress the importance of Government subsidy providing affordable housing, as Housing Associations are currently raising only 40% of the necessary funding from private finance. With costs running at approximately £140,000 to build a home, capital funding for building projects will be vital in meeting the demands for affordable housing.
Paul also wanted to impress the importance of Supporting People grants in order for organisations such as Tor Homes to continue to support vulnerable people. He explained how "affordable rent" is structured, with 70% of the formula based on the average skilled wage in the County and 30% based on the market value of the property at 1999 values.
Housing Associations would like more flexibility around rent levels in order to be able to fund a higher level of building.
Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust
I was very glad to have the opportunity to meet Paul Roberts, the Chief Executive and to discuss issues ranging from MRSA, hospital parking and of course the White Paper. We also discussed the Working Time Directive and patient transport
Devon & Cornwall Environment Agency
It was good to meet with Martin Weiler, the Area Manager, particularly as I have a great deal of correspondence on the subject of South West Water bills, stemmed in large parts from the imposition of higher standards for our beaches in 2015. These standards are due to rise again and the thorny issue of combined sewer overflows will need to be addressed. A bathing water pilot has given "real time" public information at three beaches, so that people can see for themselves where overflows have led to problems. If you are aware of any problems with raw sewage being discharged into the environment, you can call the Environment Agency Hotline no. 0800 80 70 60.
The Environment Agency should be congratulated on the work that was carried out in Harbertonford, which has not flooded since the new flood defences were built.
It was also an opportunity to hear about the £1 million, Totnes Hydro-electric Power Plant at Totnes Weir which should produce up to 1.2 gigawatts from a 4.4 diameter installation if they are able to get the go-ahead.
Meeting with Vaughan Lindsay of Dartington Hall Trust
It was a priviledge to meet with Vaughan Lindsay, the Chief Executive to hear about the diversity of work managed by the Dartington Hall Trust. www.dartington.org
Dartington has so much to offer and clearly organisations like the Dartington Trust, despite impressive fund raising, will need support from the Arts Council to be able to continue to offer all that they do.
We are hoping to put together a programme of political discussion evenings in the future, to allow challenging debates on issues, such as Trident and Parliamentary Voting Systems.
Meeting with South Devon Rural Housing Association
It was a pleasure to talk to Steve Prime, the Chief Executive of the South Devon Rural Housing Association which is now part of Partnership South West. We talked about the issues facing Housing Associations as they try to increase the provision of affordable rented housing in the South Hams.
SDRHA currently manages 200 homes but would like to expand to 250. To do so they would be helped by easier access to a dedicated fund for rural housing and the freedom that community land trusts may provide. Steve would like to see a reduction in the time that it takes for plans to be processed and a reduction in pre-planning costs. He is not the first to raise the issue of contaminated land surveys, which now have to be carried out pre-planning rather than post-planning, this is significantly adding to the costs for rural housing associations.
Meeting with the Federation of Small Businesses
It was good to catch up with David Haxby, David Shephard, Delia Colegate and Malcolm Colegate of the Federation of Small Businesses.
Only 3% of businesses in the UK employ more than 20 people, so small businesses are vital to the UK economy; nowhere more so than in the South Hams. The keynote messages from the FSB are that we need to get back to retail banking with managers in the High Street with good local knowledge and that we need to take great care not to unnecessarily burden micro businesses with costs that are only manageable in larger settings.
The FSB stressed the importance of broadband, the lack of broadband is restricting growth in the South West. The final message was about improving access for small businesses to public sector contracts, by breaking them down to contracts of more manageable sizes to allow local procurement.
Rotary Club of Totnes
It was a great pleasure to join the Rotary Club at The Royal Seven Stars for a meeting of several local branches.
Many thanks to David Stevens for the opportunity to hear more about the work of the Totnes, Dartmouth and Kingsbridge Rotary Clubs and to give a talk reflecting on my first few months as an MP
Meeting with Harbourway Dental Surgery
This was an opportunity to meet with local dentists to discuss the problems with the dental contract and how we address the barriers to providing better access to NHS dentistry in Brixham.
The current dental contract has many perverse incentives to provide substandard care and it was helpful to talk to Nick and Grahame about the changes that would be required in order to redress the situation that provides an incentive to remove a tooth rather than reward the time consuming work required to save it.
Meeting in Brixham with the Devon Local Pharmaceutical Committee at Healey’s Pharmacy.
It was good to meet with local pharmacist, Paul Moloney, and Sue Taylor and Mark Stone of the Local Pharmaceutical Committee to discuss how the Health White Paper might impact on Pharmacies in Devon.
Pharmacists are keen to expand their role in the NHS. Pharmacies like Healeys already provide a range of services from contraceptive advice and health screening to advanced advice about medicines and a harm reduction service for drug users.
Many people are unaware of how detailed and lengthy a pharmacist's training is and with their accessibility and close ties with local GPs they are well placed to increase the range of services they can provide to communities.
We looked today at their easy to access Chlamydia Screening service and how this helps to provide confidential access to screening without needing to do any more than walk into a pharmacy and pick up a free testing kit, no appointment needed.
Cycle Surgery Totnes
This was a great opportunity to work with Paula Black, Green Party County councillor and Robert Vint, Lib Dem District Councillor, towards a common goal; the opening up of a safe cycle route from Totnes to Littlehempston.
Whenever cycle routes are proposed there are those who fear that they will lead to vandalism or to overdevelopment. The reality is that cycle routes are used primarily by local people but also by visitors who bring great benefits to the local economy. It would be a shame for Totnes, the home of the Transition Towns Movement, to miss the opportunity to be on the NCN2 cycle route. Some businesses wish to restrict access across the river via a bridge largely funded by public money on the grounds that their properties might be vandalised.
My feeling is that the root of the problem lies with the derelict Dairy Crest site as such sites always tend to attract vandals. Surely the answer is to look at where protection can be added rather than seek to exclude an entire population. With careful hedging, fencing and CCTV much can be done to deter vandalism whilst encouraging walkers and cyclists to stick to the path.
The Rare Breeds Farm and the South Devon Railway declined our offer to meet with a delegation of cyclists. The offer of a private meeting later in the day was taken up by 2 local residents who were able to explain their concerns about increased traffic and the risk of inappropriate parking on the Littlehempston side of the bridge and cyclists' safety. This was a constructive meeting to look at alternative routes and how to address potential difficulties if the route does go ahead.
I would encourage businesses to look at the benefits that comparable cycle routes have brought to their local communities and see how pubs, attractions and village shops benefit from ‘green' tourism. You have only to look at the first Sustrans route from Bristol to Bath or smaller routes such as Malborough to Salcombe, to see how cycle paths open up safe links between communities that can be enjoyed by all.
The cycle surgery was enjoyed by well over 50 cyclists of all ages.
Political Forum
The Conservative Association are keen to welcome visitors to their political discussion evenings.
On this occasion I discussed my first impressions of Parliament and then took questions from the audience of about 50. These are always friendly and lively discussions and it was good to be able to also welcome 2 students from Kingsbridge sixth form.
If you would like to find out more about the Association Political Forum please contact the Totnes Office on 01803 868378.
Totnes Show
A wonderful Day out at Totnes Show.
Congratulations to Bernard Taylor, Michael Pedrick and the committee for all the hard work that goes into such a successful Show.
Totnes Surgery, Seven Stars Hotel, Totnes
Another busy surgery to try to help with constituents' concerns.
Meeting with Ann James, head of NHS Devon
Formerly Devon PCT, but now NHS Devon, this is the PCT that commissions services for half of the Totnes Constituency. Rather confusingly, anyone living in the area covered by Torbay council will come under a different Trust.
I met with Ann to discuss the White Paper and the current commissioning arrangements. With so much uncertainty ahead for PCTs the challenge will be in managing the transition from PCT to GP led commissioning. There will be a great need for experienced staff from PCTs to support GP commissioning and to help ensure that the teams in place to take over from PCTs have the expertise to manage complex budgets, demand and fairness of distribution. It would be a wasted opportunity and undermine the credibility of GP commissioning if GPs failed to engage with the process and merely handed over to private commissioners.
My concern is how we will manage to control demand fairly and within limited resources. Who and at what stage will someone, somewhere have to turn down a demand to be referred or treated?
There are many unanswered questions about the nature of GP commissioning and I am glad to have the opportunity to sit on the Health Select Committee to be able to press for answers to the many questions that need answering on this subject. If you have any thoughts on the White Paper and GP commissioning, please get in touch.
Meeting with Sue Waldron and Norma Partington from the Child Support Agency
I met with Sue and Norma to discuss how the CSA manages cases and how to help where progress is slow or obstructed by those who seek to evade their responsibilities.
This was a fascinating insight into the Agency and the kinds of difficulties that can be encountered. This is always a large part of any MPs postbag.
Meeting with Ann Whitely, director of Childrens Services at Devon County Council
It was good to meet Ann to discuss childrens' services in Devon and to be able to establish a link in order to understand the pathways of care for young people in Devon.
Meeting with Torbay Care Trust
In the afternoon I caught up with Anthony Farnsworth, Chief Executive of the Torbay Care Trust to discuss the challenges facing the Trust and Anthony's views of the success of integrated health and social care.
We agreed to stay in touch over the coming months to discuss the impact of the Health White Paper on the Trust.
Meeting with Age Concern, Paignton.
It was good to meet Robin Causley, director of Age Concern in Torbay at their Paignton headquarters.
Also an opportunity to hear about the work they do and tour the advice centre and shop to meet the many volunteers who do so much for the community in the Bay.
Kingsbridge Surgery Quay House, Kingsbridge.
If you would like to arrange an appointment for a future surgery, please call Nina Smith on 01803 868378.
Vegan Supper in Moreleigh
I was invited to meet with a group of national and local animal rights campaigners over a vegan supper in Moreleigh.
There were many areas of common ground and I am keen to promote a variety of animal welfare issues in association with the RSPCA. There were areas where we agreed to differ, most notably around the issue of whether we should allow a cull of diseased badgers, but we have made arrangements to keep in contact to maintain a dialogue over areas where we can work together in the interests of animal welfare.
I also had the opportunity to explain my position over the issue of hunting with hounds. I am not personally in favour of repealing the ban, but I have always committed to asking the electorate. So far the majority are in favour of maintaining a ban on hunting. If you would like to register your view, please email me but please include your address so that I can ensure that the poll is not biased by repeat voting and that all votes come from those living in the Totnes constituency.
Meeting with Paula Black in Totnes
On Friday I met with Paula Black, Green Party County Councillor, to discuss progress on creating a cycle path between Littlehempston and Totnes. We are both keen to promote the creation of a safe route and to complete a vital link in the NCN2 cycle network.
So many businesses could benefit from a safe route that would increase green tourism in the South Hams. We know that with families increasingly seeking to take holidays in the UK, this is a growth area and one that would benefit the whole of the local economy. I urge Devon County Council to actively seek the safest and most cycle friendly option in planning the route.
Meeting with local farmers and NFU representatives.
It was a pleasure to meet with so many local farmers and hear about the many difficulties facing the industry. Top of the list of concerns was the devastating effect of bovine TB. Farmers face high costs in terms of the time taken to meet the testing regime and many told of injuries to themselves and to livestock in trying to carry out the tests. Compensation often fails to adequately meet their costs if animal have to be culled and many told of their exasperation at having to cull cattle whilst badgers are highly protected under the current legislation.
Other issues causing concern are fears around tagging of sheep. I was told of the problems of ear tagging causing injuries to sheep and repeatedly falling out. Duplication of inspection regimes and bureaucracy are particular issues for farmers and need to be rationalised.
Finally, at the root of so many problems, we discussed the stranglehold on prices exerted by supermarkets. Farmers survive on very low incomes and cannot afford to take on the help they need. Farmers need fair prices for their produce.
Parliamentary Cycle Ride with Victoria Pendleton
Meeting Victoria Pendleton on the annual Parliamentary Bike Ride was inspirational and it is clear that we must do more to help young athletes to have the opportunity to train for Olympic Success.
For cycling, this means the provision of velodromes for training, but the nearest to Devon is currently in Wales which means it is unrealistic to train track cyclists in the South West. British Cycling is investigating a velodrome in South Devon and I will be discussing this with the head of British Cycling in the South West, Chris Yates, at the Dartmoor Classic this Weekend.
As an MP I will do my best to promote the interests of cycling in Torbay and the South Hams. If you would like to get involved please get in touch with your ideas of for safer cycling routes.
I can't do anything about the hills but there may be ways around them.
Thank you
I would also like to thank Louise and Richard Newman of Strete for hosting their annual Strawberry Tea, which I attended in the afternoon.
Brixham Trawler Race
If you haven't yet visited Brixham for the annual Trawler Race, this is one for your diary next year as it is always held on the 3rd Saturday in June.
A great spectacle, enormous fun and made the World Cup vuvuzela sound quite quiet. Congratulations to Pam and the team of organisers for another great day.
Salcombe
On Friday I met with the Town Council, many stakeholders and concerned members of the public at Batson Creek to discuss their concern at the decision by South Hams District Council to invest £160,000 in a boat hoist.
Whilst SHDC are understandably concerned by the possible risks posed by the existing boat crane operating in a public car park, the current operators argue that they have passed all safety checks.
It is a real problem that with our current compensation culture, the owners of a car park can find themselves liable for injury to people who put themselves at risk by climbing on cranes even though it is patently their own actions and stupidity that will have caused the injury in the first place.
It is a shame that such concerns have led to this situation and I hope that SHDC will delay their decision to allow further consultation with Winters, the current operators to see if a compromise regarding liability can be reached. There have been no recorded injuries from the existing crane and many of those I met at the Creek Car Park argued that the £160,000 would be better invested in other local projects.
Waving off Henry Bomby
Inspirational 19 year old Henry Bomby, set sail on Saturday at the start of his project to sail single handed around Britain, climbing the Three Peaks and taking part in the Round the island Race on the way.
Having met Henry before the election whilst he was preparing for his voyage, in aid of ‘Toe in the Water', it was a great pleasure to join the massive turnout of well wishers on the quayside to wave him off from Dartmouth.
You can follow Henry's progress and find out more about ‘Toe in the Water',which helps servicemen recover from their injuries, on their websites.
The Pilgrim Preservation Project
This was a wonderful opportunity to tour the Pilgrim Preservation Project at Butler and Co, Old Mill Creek in Dartmouth.
Pilgrim is the last Brixham built, wooden trawler to have worked amongst the fleet of around 300 that operated out of Brixham in the 1900s. They are very rare and this is a unique opportunity to watch as she is restored and see her extraordinary construction.
An unmissable part of South Devon's Heritage, I urge you to look at their website and consider sponsoring a plank so that the project can reach completion and she can be back in Brixham for 2012. The team are always looking for volunteers and have ambitious plans for her future.
Visit to Dartmouth Hospital
It was a great pleasure to return to Dartmouth Hospital to see the newly refurbished Minor injuries Unit and to discuss the future of Community Hospitals with Tracey Cunningham, matron of Dartmouth Hospital.
The hospital was built in 1894 on the South Embankment and continues to provide a fantastic service for local residents, who would otherwise face a long journey to Torbay.
It is impossible to overstate how much patients benefit from the personalised care and link to their home communities provided by Community Hospitals. I would like to see an expansion in the outpatient services available at Dartmouth. At present ENT is available and the previously threatened paediatric clinic has been reinstated.
Why not expand these and bring more expertise out into the community? The future for community hospitals is to extend the services they offer. In addition to x-ray two days per week why not include ultrasound and other diagnostics like endoscopy?
It was also interesting to see some of the innovative measures staff take to look at how standards can be continually examined and improved at Dartmouth.
I challenge any hospital in the country to provide a better or more therapeutic view from its dayroom.
Opening of Kingsbridge play area and Skate Park
It was a real privilege to be asked to cut the ribbon at the opening of the Kingsbridge play area and the skate park.
Having seen the site under construction during the campaign and heard about the extraordinary efforts of so many in the community to make it happen, it was wonderful to see it so full of children on a beautiful sunny day.
Cllr Mike Howarth thanked all those involved and then I joined the prime movers, Cllr Anne Balkwill and Wendy Bolt in cutting the ribbon. After a walk around the Creek it was a real pleasure to be able to open the skate park and watch an impressive demonstration.
If you have not been to Kingsbridge recently, take a look. With its vibrant high street and farmers' market and the transformation brought about by Kingsbridge in bloom, it is a wonderful place to visit. The play area in memorial park is outstanding; children could not fail to enjoy it. I just hope they have more success than I did at staying on the roundabout!
Meeting in Dartmouth after the great fire
On this day I visited Dartmouth to meet the Mayor, Richard Rendle, Simon Entwistle, Chair of the freeholders group and Nigel Way. After a discussion of the issues, an inspection of the site brought home the scale of the devastation to the heart of Dartmouth. It is clear that the community has done an amazing job in re-housing all those who were made homeless as a result of the fire and the Mayor's fund has been set up to raise funds for some immediate help for those who have lost so much.
The focus was on what needs to be done to get Dartmouth back on its feet for the summer season. The first priority is to sort out the traffic flow as there are reports of temporary signs being moved and numerous collisions and holdups as confusion arises over the new one way system.
I call on the Chief Traffic Engineer for Devon to review the urgency of the situation and arrange for permanent signage to be installed as soon as possible. Dartmouth traders are already suffering as a result of the hike in business rates and cannot afford to suffer further loss if visitors stay away because of traffic chaos.
I am confident that South Hams District Council will prioritise any planning arrangements needed for rebuilding of these lovely buildings.
Visit to Totnes Police Station
Meeting with our local police to discuss the force reorganisation known as blueprint and how the teams area are coping with changes to their shift patterns and response teams. It was also good to meet the team which then takes over to investigate crimes after the response team.
