Building Hope and Community Resilience: My Commitment to Suicide Prevention in Somerset
In 2022, I made the decision to stand as a Councillor for the newly established Somerset Authority (Somerset Council). My motivation stemmed from the personal—having recently lost a friend to suicide. In our close-knit community between Shepton Mallet and Wells, since my election win, we’ve mourned two lives lost to suicide, each of whom was…
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…
Read MoreBBC Radio Poses Searching Questions About the Future of Local Community Hospitals
Click on the image to hear my interview with Charlie from BBC Somerset.[Please note the external noises were not live on the radio, they are from my boisterous puppy as I captured the recording.]
Read MoreQuestions for NHS Somerset on behalf of residents
Here are my questions, on behalf of the residents I represent, for tomorrow’s Adults and Health scrutiny committee at Somerset Council. I plan to ask them unless they have already been addressed (in other questions asked) or in the discussion around NHS Somerset’s presentation. When I was elected, I made it clear that I am…
Read MoreCall for Clarity Before the Cuts
Sarah Dyke MP, Somerset Councillors, Mayors, Glastonbury, Street, Wells Councillors, Hospital League of Friends, and residents are collectively urging NHS Somerset to pause and rethink their plans. There was a strong call for clearer, more transparent communication regarding the proposed cuts to community hospitals and how these changes will impact local communities. ITV, BBC, and…
Read MoreJoin a Call for Transparency and Public Engagement for NHS Plans for Community Hospitals
When: Tuesday August 19th, 12.30pmWhere: West Mendip Hospital, Glastonbury Scheduled from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, the event will convene community, local MPs, and council representatives who are calling for clarity from NHS Somerset about recent developments. What has led to this? These developments have led to widespread public concern, with multiple MPs and local…
Read MoreHarnessing Community and Creativity: The Future Potential of The Amulet in Shepton Mallet
I was delighted to attend the inaugural business and arts networking event at the Amulet this morning, organised by the dedicated group working to revitalise the building and ensure its future. It was a great opportunity to connect and support their inspiring efforts. Here is what I said: I stand here today with a passion…
Read MoreMonthly round up of Somerset Council news
‘Together for West Somerset Appeal’ Somerset Council gives financial support Somerset Council has contributed £50,000 to the Together for West Somerset Appeal launched by Somerset Community Foundation to support those affected by the July 17th Exmoor coach tragedy. The fund, guided by partners including NHS, local schools, and national agencies, aims to provide immediate and…
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