Emma Lewell MP: ' I will put you first, as I have always done not just in what I say, but how I vote in Parliament'
Christmas can be a very difficult time of the year for many people. It’s a time when we remember the loved ones we have lost.
For some, it can be the loneliest day of the year and – for those struggling to get by – an acute reminder of the stark inequalities that scar our country. For others, war and conflict around the world weighs heavy on their minds and in their hearts.
These are the people I think about over Christmas, and these are the people I and my team, work year-round to try and help or to make life a little less painful for.
Whilst my office is closed to the public over Christmas, we will still be checking for any urgent messages. However, we are not an emergency service, and I urge anyone in danger, crisis or distress to contact the relevant emergency teams immediately.
If you are struggling there is help available. As well as national services, in South Shields we have lots of local faith groups, charities and decent friends and neighbours always ready to selflessly help others in our community who need support.
Many of those in our public services, the NHS, police, emergency services and social care will be working throughout Christmas keeping us safe and providing essential services.
For retail and hospitality workers Christmas is their busiest time of year. I want to thank them all for everything they do for us here in South Shields.
Parliament closes over Christmas so, as always, I will be in South Shields. Please do stop for a chat and say hello if you see me out and about.
I promise to you that next year in all I do I will put you first, as I have always done not just in what I say, but how I vote in Parliament. I did not vote for winter fuel cuts or cuts to sick and disabled people’s incomes, and I voted for compensation for the WASPI women.
As this is my last column before Christmas and the New Year, I hope you all have a peaceful time.