One of the very many privileges of being an MP, is not representing an area, but representing the people in the Chichester constituency. With an electorate of more than 84,000 people and a population of over 107,000 the key challenge is making sure that I can meet as many people as possible to understand your thoughts and concerns.
As a new MP, I’m still experimenting a bit however I have been holding three surgeries a month across the constituency, from Midhurst in the North, to Chichester and then down to Selsey. Most people arrange to come to a surgery when they need help, having tried everything else and feel they have nowhere left to turn. In these meetings, I have met interesting and inspiring people, often going through hardship and it is one of the most rewarding aspects of the role if I can help.
It is not just during surgery appointments that I hear from constituents, many also write, to share their advice or opinions, which I am always grateful for. I have received around 10,000 emails and several hundred letters since being elected five months ago. Thus far, I have responded to everybody, but obviously with the sheer volume it can be a struggle to keep up… More and more people are reaching out and sharing their thoughts via my website, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. These are great platforms to keep up with my work in parliament and in the constituency.
I also hold ‘round-table’ meetings to discuss specific topics. These have included a discussion with women who are against the changes in state pension age (WASPI) in Chichester, and another to debate Proportional Representation. For community concerns I hold public meetings, most recently I went to Forestside to listen to the concerns regarding exploratory oil extraction in Markswell Wood. Hopefully the message is clear – I’m keen for you to get in touch and to hear your thoughts.
Although I spend six, sometimes seven, days a week “working”, most of the time it is such a pleasure it simply doesn’t feel like work.