One of the best things about my job is meeting local community groups who are making a real difference.

I recently visited Art 4 Well Being, in Derby Terrace, and was impressed with the services that are available.

My artistic skills leave a lot to be desired, so I was delighted to see the first-class paintings by members of the group.

Richard, who has painted many pictures at the centre, was kind enough to paint me a picture.

I promised I would hang the work in my constituency office; it now hangs on the wall next to my desk.

It is rewarding that various partners can come together to provide such an excellent service for the local community.

Throughout South Shields, our schools are making a difference with breakfast and after school clubs.

This is a real help to working parents, and allows our young people to develop their skills and knowledge.

Residents' associations are working in partnership with the council, police and neighbours to make our town a safer place to live.

Those who run residents' associations do so on a voluntary basis, and their efforts are having a real and positive effect on the community.

Those who run the Phoenix Residents' Association, which serves the East Avenue area, have had their efforts recognised, and I know residents appreciate their help.

Many readers of this column will have had my regular parliamentary reports delivered to their home – this is one of the ways I let you know what I am doing for you in Parliament and South Shields.

Recently I changed the format of my reports to make them even more local, they are now based on community area forum and feature news items which are even more local to you.

The response to the new-style newsletter has been fantastic.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has raised their concerns with me after receiving my newsletter.

To date: West Shields and East Shields have received their newsletter, the next edition will be delivered to the Riverside area of South Shields soon.

This Friday, I will be out and about meeting local residents in Horsley Hill and Whitburn.

If you see me, come across and have a chat. Together we are making a difference to our town.