Campaigns
Community hospital beds could be closed or relocated, questions need to asked and answered by NHS Somerset
As Vice Chair of Somerset Council’s Adults and Health Scrutiny Committee, I am calling for urgent transparency from NHS Somerset regarding proposed changes to our community hospitals. Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has shared its plans only internally with staff, without engaging or informing the wider community. This raises concerns, especially as these plans include potentially…
Read MoreThe impact of Yeovil’s maternity crisis — it happened to me 17 Years ago
On Monday, 12 May 2025, at 4 pm, Yeovil District Hospital announced the closure of its maternity unit for an initial period of six months. This decision followed an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in January 2025, which issued a warning notice citing the need for significant improvement in paediatric services. Safety concerns…
Read MoreMental Health Awareness Week: Volunteering
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to develop and explore many ways to connect, motivate, and support volunteers. I truly believe that building strong, connected communities is the key to thriving societies. When communities come together and work collaboratively, it not only strengthens bonds but also promotes health and well-being. Overall, volunteering creates a positive…
Read MoreFresh Approach to Road Safety: Community and Business Collaboration Inspires New Way to Protect Our Roads
On May 6th, Councillor Claire Sully organised an important A371 Road Safety Discussion Forum at the Bath and West Showground, supported by Ansford Parish Council, who reached out to neighbouring parishes to help build a collaborative network aimed at improving road safety on the A371. The event was hosted by Carol Paris, CEO of Bath…
Read MoreA Survivor’s Guide to Local Politics, blog 1: What’s important to me?
Bandit: Well, looks like this is the end of the line. Any last words?Cowboy (calm and firm): Maybe. But I’ve fought for what’s right. I won’t turn tail now, even if it costs me everything.[The bandit hesitates, gun still aimed.]Cowboy: Do your worst. I’ll stand firm, till the very last shot. Hello. Are you one…
Read MoreExciting News: Joining the National Lib Dem Mental Health Group to Shape Policy
I am delighted to announce that I have been selected to join the newly established Mental Health Policy Group by the National Liberal Democrats party. This initiative presents a vital opportunity to address the pressing mental health challenges faced by our communities in Somerset and across the UK. As a Parliamentary candidate and Deputy Chair…
Read More“What has Somerset Council ever done for you, apart from what we do?”
Yesterday, during the Full Council meeting of Somerset Council, I responded to the annual report on Public Health. Below is what I said, along with some additional notes. Recently, I heard the remark: “What has Somerset Council ever done for you, apart from what we do?” Public Health is a crucial aspect of the Council’s…
Read MoreRoad Works Round-Up (2023 to date) – Evercreech Area
Extended reduced speed (40mph) scheme on A371 (including Pecking Mill corner): Lining work complete; sign installation imminent. Victoria Square Parking Improvements; lines installed, with bay timings consultation concluded. Discussions will continue with Evercreech Parish Council. Works Completed: Planned Maintenance:
Read MoreIn Memory of Ruth Ellis: Bridging History and Hope for Future Generations
I dedicate today, International Women’s Day, to the memory of Ruth Ellis. Ruth, who died at age 28, was the last woman to be hanged in this country on July 13, 1955. She was convicted of murder. Ruth’s life and death is a poignant reminder of the struggles many women have faced and continue to…
Read MoreDoes Somerset Need a Dry January?
Somerset is home to an estimated 5,202 individuals who are alcohol-dependent, with approximately 80% (around 4,000) having unmet treatment needs. While we should approach this figure with caution, national trends suggest it may actually be an underestimate. Alarmingly, alcohol-related hospital admissions in Somerset are higher than the national average, particularly among women under 40. One…
Read More