Campaigns
174 bus “new” timetable adjusted (again) after student bus user raises concern
A young 174 bus user raised concerns with their parent about the 174 Shepton to Wells timetable changes — the parent then contacted me to report the plan would see students arriving in Wells a full hour before school and 20 minutes before the gates open. I raised the issue with Somerset Council, who negotiated…
Read MoreNHS Somerset reports back on West Mendip and Frome bed reductions and proposes 50% cuts at Crewkerne and Burnham — I remain unconvinced by the findings.
At the Adults & Health Scrutiny Committee on 26 February 2026 I challenged NHS Somerset’s initial 12‑week evaluation of the test‑and‑learn in West Mendip and Frome Community Hospitals. While shifting care into neighbourhood settings and expanding home reablement (a Somerset Council priority) has merit, the report’s headline findings leave critical gaps in data and information…
Read MoreOur voice has been heard — First Bus U‑turns on Bus Cuts to the 174
I want to thank everyone who signed the petition and those who came to our 174 bus protest on Saturday Feb 14th. Our voice has been heard — working together with bus users, Somerset Bus Partnership, Somerset Council and our MPs: Anna Sabine MP and Tessa Munt MP. Following discussions with Somerset Council, First Bus have U‑turned…
Read MoreNo notice, no way home: Has First Bus’s withdrawal of the 174 early‑evening service put jobs, childcare and community safety at risk?
First Bus’s decision to withdraw the 174 Wells–Bath service after 5pm, with almost no notice, will sever vital travel links for residents of Wells, Croscombe, Shepton Mallet, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and other communities on the route, and will have immediate, serious consequences for workers, families, young people and vulnerable people across the region. The route…
Read MoreReflections on Community and Council: A Vision for Somerset’s Future
Recently, I was asked by Somerset Council to reflect on my experiences and views regarding the incredible communities we serve and the role of the council, both now and into the future. It was a pleasure to answer these thought-provoking questions, allowing me to express my deep appreciation for our region and the inspiring work…
Read MoreCompleted Safety Repairs in Mendip South – October 2025
[Remember to report any defects or feedback via: Report a Problem on the Road. Reports go directly to the Somerset Council team who work with the contractors] This report covers the period from October 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025, and gives an overview of the safety defects that have been identified and addressed within…
Read MoreBuilding Hope and Community Resilience: My Commitment to Suicide Prevention in Somerset
My motivation for standing in the 2022 Somerset Council election was because I wanted to make a difference, especially around mental health. Having recently lost a friend to suicide, I felt a responsibility to help create change. Since then, we’ve mourned two more lives lost to suicide in our close-knit community between Shepton Mallet and…
Read MoreMaking a Difference in Our Community: How We’re Working to Prevent Suicide in Somerset.
At the heart of Somerset Council, we are dedicated to preventing suicide and supporting mental health through open conversations and community action. Our goal is to break down barriers, reduce stigma, and ensure help is accessible for everyone. Here’s a closer look at one of our key initiatives: The Orange Button Scheme and how it…
Read MoreAdvocating for Mental Health Reform at the Lib Dem Conference 2025
I am here at the Bournemouth 2025 Liberal Democrat Conference, proud to be part of the committee leading a policy consultation on mental health. Our goal is to develop a comprehensive, evidence-led approach that addresses the urgent needs of our communities. The current state of mental health in the UK is deeply concerning. Suicide rates…
Read MoreCould 140 Years of NHS Experience Be Lost at Just One Community Hospital Due to Cuts?
The recent bed cuts at West Mendip Hospital have led to a difficult and uncertain situation for the hospital’s staff. Eight highly experienced employees, whose combined years of dedication total around 140, are now facing job losses. These staff members have spent years caring for patients and supporting the community, making their potential departure a…
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