Alison Seabeck

MP for Plymouth, Devonport

Welcome to My Website

I hope you find it useful and informative.

I am always looking for different ways to keep in touch with you. This is one way that I hope you will enjoy, and please do come back regularly.  I represent your interests and concerns in the House of Commons, considering and proposing new laws, and contacting ministers with your concerns. If you want to get in touch, click on the contact button above.

In the Constituency

I hold regular surgeries where you can come along to discuss any matters that concern you. I also visit schools and businesses and generally try to meet as many people as possible. This gives me further insight and context into issues I wish to raise in Westminster. If you want to book a surgery date call 01752 365617.

Alison Seabeck Backs Disabled Campaigners’ No. 10 Petition

Plymouth MP Alison Seabeck proudly supported young disabled campaigners when they took their fight for better disabled access for transport, education and leisure venues to No. 10 Downing Street.

The Trailblazers, the Muscular Dystrophy campaign’s pressure group of disabled 16 to 30 year olds, have been investigating the state of transport, education and leisure facilities for disabled people in the UK over the past year. They presented a summary of these three reports called Inclusion Now to Parliament on Tuesday, as well as handing in the petition at No. 10. Alison joined 50 Trailblazers and the Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe MP at the event.

• wheelchair users regularly pay more to use public transport than their non-disabled peers and are made to feel like second-class citizens on public transport because of a lack of awareness from staff and inaccessible stations
• one in 10 disabled students doesn’t have accessible accommodation, cooking and dining facilities integrated into mainstream university life
• four out of five young disabled people have had problems using leisure facilities that aren’t disabled friendly.

Armed with this information and the rest of their reports on transport, education and leisure, the Trailblazers are now putting pressure on facilities and services they don’t think are performing well to improve what they offer disabled people.
 

 Treasury Minister, Stephen Timms Touring the City

Alison was delighted to welcome the Minister to Plymouth for a day-long tour of the city with staff from a number of partner agencies, including the city council, the Jobcentre, youth intervention officers and drug workers.
Members of the public could talk to council representatives, civilian crime prevention workers, staff from both the Harbour and Ocean Quay addiction centres, and officers from the council's Antisocial Behaviour Unit.
Alison and the Minister joined police in Whitleigh and Sgt Lindsey Walke said the aim of the 'focus day' was to strengthen links between the community and the police and to increase public awareness of these partner groups.
 

 Building Plymouth Schools for the Future

WORK on revamping five schools in Plymouth will begin between January and March next year, according to Schools Minister Vernon Coaker.
Mr Coaker answered a question from Plymouth Devonport MP Alison Seabeck in the House of Commons following the announcement that the city was to get about £78million in funding from the Government under the Building Schools For the Future programme.
Ms Seabeck asked when Mr Coaker believed work would begin 'on the ground'.
He replied: "We expect the plans between January and March next year, and that building will start soon afterwards."
Council education chiefs said this week that the initial BSF investment would be spent at five secondary schools.
It would support major refurbishments planned for Tamarside and John Kitto community colleges as part of their move to academy status, to refurbish Lipson Community College, to invest in computing facilities at Wood View Learning Community, and to build a new secondary school for Devonport to replace Stoke Damerel Community College.
 

Join Ed's Campaign for a Climate Deal Change at Copenhagen

The launch of 10:10 is happening at just the right time. With less than 100 days until the international talks in Copenhagen, the urgency to show people care about climate change has never been greater.

It is important everyone plays their part, which is why I’m signing up personally to try to save 10% of my CO2 emissions in 2010.

The UK is already among the world leaders in pledging to cut our country’s emissions by at least a third by 2020 in our UK Transition Plan, cleaning up our energy sources, supporting energy efficiency and adapting the way we travel. And it’s also our job to support people to make a difference themselves.

In the past year 1.5 million homes have received some form of insulation, with enough professional loft insulation installed to stretch from London to Sydney and back, resulting in savings on fuel bills.

By signing up to the10:10 campaign, I hope people will be sending a broader message to governments round the world. They need to agree a global deal at Copenhagen that is ambitious in cutting emissions, fair to developing countries and effective in holding countries to their word.

I’m pledging to do my bit in my own life and I’m also supporting edspledge to try to get that deal at Copenhagen.

VOTE FOR PLYMOUTH - BRINGING WORLD CUP MATCHES COULD BE WORTH AT LEAST £100 MILLION TO THE ECONOMY OF DEVON AND CORNWALL.

To pledge your support, go to http://www.plymouthworldcupbid.com, click on the red square link to the FA's England 2018 site and then scroll down the page to the voting registration web link. Alternatively, text 'Plymouth' to 62018.

To get this far, the bid team has shown great ambition and vision. But successful bids rely on strong public backing. Please back the bid by registering your vote for Plymouth.

Yesterday Alison was delighted to host a reception at the House of Commons to highlight the strength of Plymouth’s bid to become one of the host Cities for the 2018 world cup bid.

This was an opportunity to show to the FA just what Plymouth could offer to the football players, back room teams, fans and their families who come to the city.

Alison welcomed a host of guests including, Douglas Fletcher, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and also Chairman of the Bid team; Paul Sturrock, Manager of Plymouth Argyle and Paul Mariner the new Head Coach.

Alison is backing a National Autistic Society (NAS) campaign

to stop adults with autism being written-off by the employment and benefits system. A new report by the NAS reveals a third of people with the condition currently live without a job and without benefits; many are forced to rely on family and friends for help.

Alison said: “People with autism have a great deal to offer and we know that many want to work but are unable to get the help and support they need to fulfil their potential. It is crucial that people with serious, lifelong and disabling conditions such as autism get the help they need when seeking employment and are supported financially when they cannot work.”

For more information about autism and for help in your area, call the NAS Autism Helpline on: 0845 070 4004 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday, (local rates apply).
The NAS Autism Services Directory is the UK’s most comprehensive directory of services and events for people with autism. Visit www.autism.org.uk/autismdirectory to find autism services and support networks in your area.

National Bookstart Day 2009

Was celebrated across the country on Friday 9th October with “My favourite Rhyme” events taking place in children’s centres, nurseries, libraries and bookshops.   Alison joined in the celebrations with the teachers and children at Widey Court Primary School.
 

Plymouth Hospital Radio 40th Anniversary

Alison was delighted to join the many volunteers to celebrate the fantastic work of hospital radio in Plymouth for 40 years, including one who worked for Plymouth Radio in its first premises on the Hoe. 

They do brilliant work and all the evidence shows that access to music and entertainment really does help to improve recovery rates.   I will continue to press the Performing Rights Society to reconsider their position on the licence charge levied.

visit www.hospitalradio.plymouth.org.uk

School Minister says "Plymouth Back on Track

 Alison who is pictured here with Schools Minister Vernon Coaker at Ernesettle School welcomed news that Plymouth is back on track to win £80 million for five new school projects.   Alison felt, that with the city’s programme of modernisation only part complete, the Minister had to visit, she wanted him to be in no doubt about the benefits of government funding.   The Minister, who delivered three schools in the city, said "My overall impression is of how well Plymouth is delivering."
At Ernesettle Community School, which has been open a year, Mr. Coaker said: "It's remarkably impressive to see the school operating as a catalyst for raising opportunities and enthusiasm in the community."
The Minister went on to see Stoke Damerel Community College and Wood View Learning Community. He said the schools he had visited "certainly put Plymouth in a good position" to be among the six chosen in the autumn.
The bid is to "rebuild and refresh" four community colleges: Stoke Damerel, John Kitto, Tamarside and Lipson, and to deliver an IT project at the new Wood View.

 Alison was delighted to visit the South West Image Bank, a photographic archive conveniently housed in Looe Street and chat with Stacey Dyer the Archivist Manager.

SWiB acquire, preserve and digitally restores photographic collections pertaining to the region for present and future historical research and enquiry.

Alison said “I was fascinated and impressed by the images which have been captured of people and places and could easily have spent the whole day there it was so interesting”.   At present there are 25 volunteers who are busy cataloguing, scanning and preserving the main collection under the supervision of a full-time qualified Archivist.

If you would like to find out more or visit the Image Bank visit the website:
http://swib.wikidot.com
 

THE WHEELS ON THE BUS GO AROUND FOR ALISON

Alison was practicing her nursery rhymes when she joined in Rhyme Time at West Park Library on Tuesday 28th July 2009.  Alison visited the library to highlight the brilliant work carried out in libraries across the city to encourage reading from an early age.

Alison said

 “Rhyme time is a brilliant way to introduce babies and toddlers to books.  Many of the parents attending the sessions with their toddlers, may not have set foot in a library themselves since they were children.  I am amazed at the range of activities available for young people, from babies to teenagers which are available for free in local libraries across Plymouth.  With the school holidays upon us I would recommend to all parents that they visit their local library to see what is on offer to keep the kids amused”.

  “Libraries have had a bit of an image change over recent years, with access to the internet and the ability to hire CDs and DVDs as well books.  The facilities for young people in our libraries are really excellent, but there is plenty for their parents as well. 

Rhyme Times take place at all of the libraries in
the constituency apart from Eggbuckland visit  their website here. Crownhill and Southway are particularly well attended and they run right through the summer. 
 (For security no pictures of Children have been included) Alison is pictured here with staff member Pam Jackson

Alison was delighted to be at the launch, albeit in pouring rain, of the Training Ship Jack Petchey.  The ceremony which took place at the Bridgend Boat Company' s yard at Mountbatten was attended by Vice Admiral Tom Blackburn KCVO CB who is Chairman of the Marine Society and Sea Cadets.  There were a number of trustees there and a representative of Jack Petchey whose generosity has supported the organisation.
During the course of the event Alison was advised that Merseyside had offered their sea cadets the equivalent of the Freedom of the City and will be pursuing this idea with the Lord Mayor of Plymouth to see whether our City, with its long Naval history can do something similar.

World on the Green 11th July 2009

Alison spent the best part of a day meeting people at the 3rd World on the Green event in North Prospect.    The weather made it more like Glastonbury but those who turned out, and there were a lot of people despite the downpour, were treated to a feast of music and some excellent demonstrations.  The food stalls also did good business.    
This event shows what a good community Swilly is and how even in the worst conditions people will come out and join in.   The displays by children were excellent and I really enjoyed the Dance groups. On the main stage Weapons of Sound, Krystal, Chimanimani and the glorious Bus Station Loonies were among the acts who provided the entertainment.   
Everyone involved should be thanked for helping to make this happen - well done to the organisers!!
Over the same weekend Alison joined a Fun Day on the Green at Higher St Budeaux and attended the church service immediately prior to the event opening.   It too was very well attended with lots of families gearing up to enjoy what was on offer.  
 

FAIRTRADE COSMETICS FOR
Plymouth Devonport

Delight as Alison’s nominated hero Tina wins the Volunteer Heroes Award at the House of Commons

Alison nominated Tina for her tireless contribution to the community, if not for her, much of the work that others either benefit from or allows them opportunities for involvement and inclusion would not have happened. She is truly a heroine.

Tina was actively involved in the late 80s with managing a series of Community Development Work in the North Prospect area and her efforts contributed to the neighbourhood being selected for a trailblazing Sure Start project in the late 90’s. This project is still going today having now become a Children’s Centre with adult services.  Tina was also instrumental in setting up a community crèche, childcare training for local women, youth work and widening access to education for local adults.

2004 also saw the birth of the Group for Arts in Swilly. Tina was founding member and is currently the chair. The group under Tina’s leadership has attracted a number of art and cultural activities for residents of all ages. Tina also coordinates North Prospect meets the World on the Green a festival to celebrate difference and diversity in its widest sense, now in its third year.

The MP Heroes Tea Party is organised by the Experience Corps to celebrate the achievements of all volunteers all over the country.   Alison is pictured with Tina receiving the Janet Atlfield Award.

Alison Seabeck MP has pledged to fight for the future of newsagents in Plymouth Devonport.    The commitment came after it was revealed that traditional newsagents are being forced to shut up shop at a rate of more than one every day.

Developments in the news distribution industry – the businesses that deliver newspapers and magazines – have left most newsagents with no choice over who supplies them.   Shop owners fear that the lack of competition will leave them with no alternative supplier and vulnerable to increased costs. Last week almost 800 newsagents delivered a petition to the Office of Fair Trading demanding urgent action to protect competition in the news distribution industry.

Alison said:  “Traditional newsagents are the backbone of our community.  They deliver a vital service and are a friendly face that many people rely on every day. “It is shocking and unacceptable that so many newsagents face an uphill struggle to survive.  I am happy to pledge my support to newsagents in Plymouth Devonport and across the UK.”

Alison welcomes MoneyActive launched by Nationwide in partnership with Citizens Advice

MoneyActive will see financial education sessions delivered across the country.   Volunteers in selected Citizens Advice Bureaux will start delivering financial capability sessions to individuals, groups and frontline workers such as staff at local housing associations.

At the event to celebrate the new project in the House of Commons Alison said “knowing how to manage your money is an important life skill.   MOneyActive will see many people benefit from financial education sessions which will give information on how to budget, borrow and save with confidence.

For more information visit:  www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Carers Week takes place on 8-14 June 2009. To find out more, and to
register for your free leaflets, posters etc, please visit
www.carersweek.org Visit our website: http://www.carersuk.org
Alison is supporting Carers week to show her gratitude and respect for carers and also to make them aware that there are services and support available to them.   Alison said “those who care for family and friends mostly do so under the radar, without pay or acknowledgement, and deserve to be recognised for their dedication to the people they care for, not just during Carers Week but for all the weeks of the year.    There are thousands of people in the constituency who sacrifice their time and often their health, finances, work and social life in order to care for their loved ones.”

Young Sailors Celebrate

Young people in Plymouth will have great sailing opportunities thanks to grants from the Youth Capital Fund and Youth Opportunities Fund.

Alison Seabeck MP for Devonport and the young sailors at Tamar River Cadets came together to celebrate receiving new dinghies, equipment, improved facilities and training thanks to grants of nearly £12,000.

The YOF and YCF grants are funded by  Plymouth Youth Services. They are awarded by a panel of young people, many of whom came along as guests to see how the money was being spent and to be told by the young sailors themselves what a difference it had made. These grants are to support positive, healthy and enjoyable activities organised by young people for young people. Judging from their happy faces full marks were scored at Tamar River Cadets.

Cadet Leader, Nathan Hanley said ‘With this money we have been able to get more young people out on the water and introduce them to the sport of sailing. Most of them have never been in a dinghy before but within a few weeks they are doing really well and having so much fun.’

Alison  said ‘This grant fund, provided by Plymouth Youth Services, has helped to support and encourage this project, and others like it, to get young people off the streets by giving them something to enjoy and achieve. It was great to be here today and see so many smiling young faces’
 

Meeting the children at Beechwood and Oakwood School

As part of one of Alison’s regular visits to schools in the constituency to talk to teachers and governors and to hear from them any concerns they have about education policy.  This week SATS were discussed, the value of parent support workers, design and build of new schools and the recent Rose Review.  

Alison also chatted to the school meals team about the kitchen equipment and the type of food children like to eat.

John Kitto Community College Visit

Alison  visited John Kitto Community Centre, where she was able to view the
excellent IT and Teaching facilities at the Brunel Centre.  She learnt how
money allocated through the National Challenge has been used to target pupils, who are at risk of not achieving Maths & English.  Pete Grainger, Principal of the college, said  the additional funding had made a real difference. They discussed the proposals for John Kitto to become an Academy and the resulting rebuilding and refurbishment of the school that would take place.  Pete Grainger said there was a real opportunity for the new school to become a flagship academy with excellent facilities not just for students, but also for the wider community.

Integration through Culture – Dance, Dance, Dance

Alison was delighted to join the multicultural extravaganza aimed at promoting racial harmony hosted by the University of Plymouth.

More than 120 performers took the stage to dance in a range of styles, including Indian, Cornish, Chinese, English, Nepali, belly-dancing, line-dancing and break dance.

Alison said “it was a fantastic event, I came last year and was so looking forward to seeing the dancers, some professional and some from our amateur city groups” and the bonus is over £500 was raised for Cancer Research UK”.
 

Alison invited Health Minister Ben Bradshaw to Barne Barton to support the resident’s call for improved community facilities on an ex-Naval estate in Plymouth.
Local leaders and partners from the health service and city council are working together to attract multi-million pound funding for community facilities including a GP surgery.
The Government Minister said it was "clear" Barne Barton had been left without sufficient infrastructure.  Mr Bradshaw spoke yesterday during a tour of Plymouth which included meeting health bosses, as well as clinicians involved in the city's "pioneering" community-based back pain service.

20 January 2009 Alison is pictured above with Ben Bradshaw, Minister for Health and the South West and Pat Patel, Project Manager for Barne Barton’s Tamar View Community Centre.
 

Alison showed a Government Minister what a community can do when it works together.
Junior Housing Minister Iain Wright visited the new community outreach centre in Roberts Road, Barne Barton, yesterday.
"I'm very proud of what the community in Barne Barton has done," Alison said. "When I first came here three years ago, people told me Barne Barton was like Beirut. I've never seen that myself, but Barne Barton has changed hand over fist in three years.
"The improvements are largely down to community activities and people doing things for themselves."

The picture shows from left to right Brian Moore (Filby Moore Associates) Alison Seabeck MP, William Sutton Homes Chief Exec Neil McCall, Melv Chislett, Chair of SABBR residents group, and Junior Housing Minister Iain Wright.
 

Alison invited Inspector Gary Neeves, Neighbourhood team leader to a reception at 10 Downing Street in recognition of the hard work of local officers who are all helping make residents feel safe in their community.

Neighbourhood Policing is based on teams who work within specific locations or "neighbourhoods". They provide reassurance and accessibility through a consistent visible presence. They also have a good knowledge of the area, its community and any issues or problems associated with it. They work with the community and partner agencies to address long term issues that affect people's quality of life.

 The latest MORI survey shows 71% of local residents trust the police with 69% of residents saying they feel safe walking alone at night.
Every two years MORI undertake an independent household survey of all 39 New Deal for Communities (NDC) Partnerships in the country. This year’s survey of the Devonport NDC also showed 85% of those residents surveyed say their quality of life is good or fairly good, with 79% saying the NDC programme has improved the area.

All crime related areas from the survey have shown improvement visit www.devon-cornwall.police.uk.

Alison welcomed Local Government Minister John Healey

to meet with City business leaders to discuss the impact of the downturn on Plymouth’s economy.Mr Healey spent the morning talking to entrepreneurs and members of the Chamber of Commerce about the economic prospects Plymouth faces in the coming years.
He then visited the Devonport Regeneration Community Partnership, and spoke about how businesses can counter the credit crunch.
Mike Leece, chairman of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce asked the Minister what the government could do for Plymouth, to help Plymouth achieve it's growth agenda."

15 January 2009
 

 

 

Alison today welcomed a new cash boost for 27,000 local people as part of the Government's financial help for 15 million people.

 

Following the coldest start to winter in thirty years, the Government today formally ordered a special one-off payment of £60 to pensioners, carers, disabled people and those in receipt of bereavement benefits.

Alison said:

"This is Christmas cracker for everyone in Plymouth Devonport and I’m pleased that the Government has realised that our most vulnerable need help and its right that they've invested this extra cash.

"The Christmas bonus will be a real winter warmer for all who get it."

 

 

Alison paid a visit to the Plymouth Foodbank, a community project working to serve the community and fight poverty.

The Foodbank works by collecting tinned and dried food that is donated by the community.    It is stored and packed into boxes for distribution.   Food vouchers are given out by professionals and agencies signed up to the project to help people in crisis.

Food vouchers can be exchanged for a food box at the Crown Centre in Stonehouse.   Alison said “there are many reasons why people need emergency food packages; it could be that they are experiencing delays in obtaining their benefit or are simply on a low income and in debt.

This valuable service is helping families, particularly those with children, who are experiencing money problems and cannot afford food and I was amazed at the generosity of the local people when I looked at the donations the centre receive”.
 

Alison was delighted to officially open a new classroom block at Widey Court Primary in Crownhill.

The School which has 620 pupils has replaced four temporary classrooms which had been there for about 30 years with a permanent extension.   Headteacher Mr Marsh said “You used to go into the old huts and could smell the spores in the air.   There was mould growing on the walls.   The new classrooms are so much better”

The extension cost £750,000 and Mr Marsh said that part of the money was to provide services for the community, which the school has already started doing by running computer classes for adults.

Minister hands-on at Tamarside Community College

 Keith Balance, Head of Tamarside Community College welcomed Ed Balls, the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, and local MP Alison Seabeck to the college to look at the new Diploma Courses for 14-19 year olds. 

Diplomas combine academic learning with practical, hand-on skills  It’s a combination aimed at encouraging students to develop work-relevant skills - along with their abilities in English, maths and ICT - in a creative and enjoyable way.  All the students were enthusiastic about the skills they were learning and eager to show the Minister the projects they were involved in.

The Minister also spoke to the City’s teachers about the Academy & Trust programme which helps to support schools whose results continue to improve - but where the schools themselves think they can still do better.

For further information on Diplomas visit www.direct.gov.uk

Local MP dares to wear it pink

Alison Seabeck MP is joining forces with Breast Cancer Campaign for its award winning fundraising event, wear it pink, on Friday 31 October 2008.

This year’s theme is ‘dare to wear’ and Alison is urging residents, young and old to get their craziest pink outfits on. Alison is pictured wearing a pink lab coat to represent the importance of breast cancer research.

Taking part in wear it pink couldn’t be easier. Whether you are in an office, at school, or simply popping to the shops, on 31 October donate £2 and wear an item of pink, the more daring the better! Your donation will allow Campaign to continue funding innovative world class research across the UK.

Alison Seabeck MP says “Every year over 45,500 women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer. Like many others, I know people who have lost friends and family members to breast cancer. I would like to encourage everyone in Plymouth Devonport and throughout the country to support wear it pink on October 31, to raise valuable funds for breast cancer research.”

To help Campaign reach this year’s target of £3.5 million, take part in the UK’s original and best pink day.  Call freephone 0800 107 3104 or visit www.wearitpink.co.uk and register to receive your free fundraising pack now.
 

Alison Lights the Way for Cheaper Energy Bills

Alison Seabeck. MP for Plymouth Devonport dropped into Mecca Bingo in Devonport today to support their give-away free energy saving light bulbs to local bingo players.

The give-away is a joint initiative by Mecca Bingo and Southern Electric who are distributing 2 million free light bulbs to Mecca members across the UK.  Every Mecca member can collect a free pack of 2 energy saving light bulbs, during September, by simply going into their Mecca club and swiping their membership card. 

Mecca Members who are over the age of 70 or on qualifying benefits can also take up an offer for free loft and cavity wall insulation, which will be handled by Southern Electric.  People simply need to call the telephone number in the pack to find out if they qualify and to book the installation.

 Alison Seabeck, Labour MP for Plymouth Devonport, said:

“I am delighted to be here today supporting this initiative.  With this campaign Mecca Bingo and Southern Electric are offering real savings to householders.  I would urge everyone who is a member of Mecca Bingo to go down to the hall, pick up their light bulbs and find out if they are eligible for free insulation.

“ At a time when most people are feeling the pinch, with rising household bills, this campaign gives people the chance to save energy, save money and – ultimately – save the planet.“

August 2008

Alison visits the Mount Batten Centre to view its latest facility.

Brain Waves, which will open next month, is Plymouth’s second centre for the national project Playing for Success, which aims to help underachieving pupils with a programme of after-school study support.

Alison went afloat with a group of young sailors who were enjoying an RYA training week at Mount Batten.  Alison also visited the centre’s climbing facility and joined a group on a climbing and abseiling adventure day. Alison said “it’s amazing how much skill and confidence these young people have after only one week of sailing” and after taking part in the activities she highlighted the potential benefits of the scheme.

Brian Waves, based in part of the Mount Batten Centre, will offer after-school development opportunities, encouraging learning by linking technology and outdoor activities.

 National Play Day 2008

Alison Seabeck MP was delighted to lend her support to Plymouth’s celebration of National Play Day.  Alison joined the Lord Mayor and Mayoress and really entered the spirit of the event.   Alison said,” Play, and understanding risk in play, is vital to childrens’ development.   It was great to be able to join in the fun and learning and I’d like to congratulate all those involved in organising this event and in running the numerous play schemes across our City. I’m sure we were all delighted that the rain stayed

away and that many hundreds of children enjoyed what was on offer.”
 National Play Day is organised locally by Plymouth City Council and is supported by the National Lottery, Plymouth Play Association and other community organisations providing services for children and young people.
Joy Davenport, Plymouth City Council Play Officer said: "Our 12th celebration of children's right to play was once again a huge success. The theme this year "Give us a go" let us explore the benefits of children and young people taking risks through play. They had the chance to sample some bushcraft activities, sailing and climbing along with all the other things you would see at a fun day face painting bouncy castles etc.  I would like to thank all of the organisations that gave up their time to make this event such a wonderful free day of play for the children and young people of Plymouth."

WHAT'S PLAYDAY?
Playday is the annual celebration of children's right to play.  Playday 2008 was on Wednesday 6 August.
On Playday and throughout the summer of 2008, thousands of children, young people and communities will get out and play at hundreds of locally organised events across the UK. This year's Playday campaign theme, Give us a go! calls for children to be allowed challenging and adventurous play opportunities and aims to shake off the 'cotton wool' culture that can limit children’s play.
 

World in the Park – an amazing day of multicultural entertainment

North Prospect held a festival to celebrate their, and the City’s diversity.    Local residents listened to music and dance from Kurdish, Greek and Thai communities, with performances from Senegalese band Lolou, Dance Devonport, Street Factory, Irish rockers Mad Dog McRea, Cristel, Oh Oh 7, the Livingstone Baptist Choir and Weapons of Sound.

Residents were also able to enjoy food from around the world, have a henna tattoo or visit the exhibition on the housing stock option to see the new kitchen and bathroom designs.   There was juggling, uni-cycling and the brave could even try limbo dancing.  

Alison said “It was great to have such a fusion of cultures in one place and I hope it will go from strength to strength and be back again next year”.   Co-organiser Martin Clay said “the day was a great improvement on a similar effort last year and he had ordered good weather for the day”.
 

Minister sees first hand the benefits of back to work initiatives

July 11th 2008

James Purnell, Secretary of State for the Department of Work and Pensions spent the day in Plymouth, with Alison meeting up with people who find it difficult to access work as well as those organisations who offer support, training and advice in the area.

We visited PLUSS at Southway, in my constituency, listening to people with a range of disabilities talk about the barriers they have to cross in order to work.   James saw first hand the excellent facilities at PLUSS which help prepare people for the world of work and met with those who have secured employment.

James Purnell and Alison at the PLUSS Factory

Later, the Minister joined a group of young people who have had a difficult time at home or who have been in care.   He saw the work of “Tomorrow’s People” and joined in one of the lively and challenging sessions designed to build confidence in these young people.

For many people the Charity’s work has been a lifeline, James spoke with one of the youngsters who has recently finished the course and now has a home, a job and new found confidence.  

Pluss offers a range of training and recruitment services, and also direct employment in their own manufacturing and mobility equipment businesses.

They have recently signed up to Jobcentre Plus new Local Employment Partnership Agreement.
Visit their website www.pluss.org.uk where you can download leaflets, find out more or simply give them a call on 01752 306630.

Alison praises “first class” Derriford Hospital staff heroes after sharing a day in the life of ward nurse Penny Thompson

 Photograph courtesy of the Plymouth Evening Herald 8 July 2008

The Devonport MP rolled up her sleeves to gain first-hand experience of life on Lynher ward as part of events to mark the NHS' 60th year. She shadowed junior sister Penny Thompson on Friday afternoon, finding out about the work of a nurse in today's NHS and offering a hand with activities such as bed-making.
Mrs Seabeck said she was “very impressed” with the ward's organisation and cleanliness as well as the professionalism of staff.
“It was a fascinating experience, not least because all my family are nurses,” she said.
“My mum became a nurse in the 1950s, not long after the NHS was set up. So I had a feel for what was involved but it was very interesting actually standing in the ward and watching just how non-stop a nurse's job is. “There's constant movement and a constant drawing of information from patients and their families which all has to be communicated through the ward team. “I was very impressed with them all.”
Mrs Seabeck also praised the work being done in the ward to prevent the spread of infections. The MP worked in sleeveless clothes to support the hospital's Bare Below the Elbows policy – part of a host of anti-infection measures.
She said: “It was really encouraging to see patients' families coming in and all gelling up their hands as they came into the ward. “There seems to be an increased awareness among visitors of infection-control, partly because of improved signs throughout the hospital.”
Plastic surgery ward Lynher recently underwent change to include maxillo-facial and other patients. Mrs Seabeck said: “Penny Thompson talked me through new systems that have been introduced into the ward since its amalgamation. “She said it's working really well and is much more efficient than what was in place before.”
The MP added: “The other thing that was interesting was talking to relatives and patients. “They said their treatment has been first class and they couldn't praise enough the quality of the care they'd received from doctors and nurses.
“I was very grateful to the ward for finding time to show me what they do

Plymouth Veterans Day 27th June 2008

Alison was honoured to be a Patron for this year’s Veterans Day and celebrate the contribution made by veterans to the life of the nation during their time in the armed forces and the continuation of this service in civilian life.  A Veterans Centre was established in the Guildhall and opened to the public on Friday and Saturday to allow them to meet some of the many organisations supporting veterans and their families.

Alison met with members of the British Legion who are in the process or re-organising their Poppy Appeal operation in Plymouth.  During Remembrance tide each year, members of the public have been known to say “you can never find a Poppy in Plymouth”   The legion are currently appealing for more organisers, serving and former members of HM Armed Forces are desirable but not essential and if you think you can help contact the Royal British Legion on 01392 273111 or email JPentreath@britishlegion.org.uk

Alison also enjoyed the presentation by  BLESMA (The British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association) and if you would like further information on how to become a member or find out more visit their website www.blesma.org

Alison invites Home Office Minister to Honicknowle June 2008

I was delighted to welcome Meg Hillier MP, a Home Officer Minister, to Honicknowle Green to talk to local people and meet police community support officers Mark Boswell and Kate Stanley, along with neighbourhood team leader Inspector Gary Neeves.  

The PCSOs hold regular “street briefings” with local people to find out their concerns and simply knock on doors where there is a particular problem.   Insp Neeves told the Minister that only a small number of people caused the majority of problems with alcohol.   Alison said “it was important to get young people to engage with the wider community to find solutions that will work for everybody”.
 

Visit to the I CAN Centre at Southway Primary School - June 2008

Alison visited the I CAN Centre at Southway Primary School this week to meet with the staff and pupils at the nursery and gained valuable insight into how Early Talk works as a ‘glue’ between children’s services and health services, ensuring the best possible support for all children, with a special focus on those with a speech, language and communication disability. 

 
 The centre is set up to meet the educational and speech and language therapy needs of 20 children from across the Plymouth city area and has its own room for individual and group work. The children all work toward achieving the  National Early Learning Outcomes. 49 children attend each session at the nursery, 10 of whom will be part of the I CAN  Early Years Centre at Southway.
For more information on I CAN at Southway Primary contact:
ICAN at Southway Primary School
Foundation stage unit,
Bampfylde Way,
Pymouth
PL6 6SR
CGrant@southway-pri.plymouth.sch.uk
JLowe@southway-pri.plymouth.sch.uk
Make Chatter Matter is I CAN’s UK-wide awareness-raising campaign to highlight the importance of children’s communication development as the foundation for learning and development.  To find out more about Make Chatter Matter go to www.ican.org.uk/makechattermatter
 

In Parliament

Alison welcomes community hero Maisie to Commons Celebration

Alison Seabeck MP nominated Maisie Pullyblank, who yesterday at the House of Commons was awarded a certificate in recognition of her outstanding efforts in the Community.    Maisie has worked tirelessly for over 20 years to keep up the Leigham Community Hall, after it was vacated by the Church in 1982, and voluntarily took on the task of looking after the building.

Alison said “ I was delighted to welcome Maisie and present her with the certificate -  the hall is at the heart of the community with over 400 people using the facilities weekly and despite many setbacks she and her husband have kept this important facility running.     She has won the respect and affection of the community for all that she has done.”

The event is organised by the Experience Corps who invite Members of Parliament to nominate a chosen hero for their services to the Community.     Guests are then served with afternoon tea and meet community heroes from all over the UK, unsung heroes who devote their time and effort voluntarily to make a difference in their community.
 

 When Richard met Gordon (thanks to Alison)

Alison said, “ I was delighted to welcome local business man Richard George to the  Entrepreneurs reception at No 10 Downing Street.    The evening was an opportunity for the Prime Minister to congratulate those, who through hard work and determination, have built successful businesses and in turn created employment opportunities for the local community.

It gave entrepreneurs from all over the UK the chance to get together and share ideas on how the business community can work together to drive forward economic growth and boost the enterprise culture.  And for me it was a pleasure to meet top entrepreneurial talent and share their mood of optimism and creativity.”

NHS Breast Screening Programme 20th Anniversary

Alison joined forces with the UK’s leading breast cancer charity, Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Breast Cancer at their annual Westminster reception to congratulate the NHS Breast Screening Programme on its 20th anniversary - and to highlight a key challenge that lies ahead for the Screening Programme with the effective roll out of digital mammography.

Alison said:
“I am delighted to continue to support Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s Screening Saves Lives campaign and wholeheartedly congratulate the NHS Breast Screening Programme for its work over the last 20 years.

“The move towards digital mammography for all breast screening units is to be welcomed but we need to ensure that there is appropriate support and infrastructure to make this a reality as swiftly as possible. Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK, with over 44,000 women diagnosed each year. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment and the NHS Breast Screening Programme has been instrumental in ensuring more women than ever are surviving a disease that will affect one in nine women in their lifetime.”

1. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is a charity committed to fighting breast cancer through research and education and has established the UK’s first dedicated breast cancer research centre. The Breakthrough Toby Robins Breast Cancer Research Centre is situated at the Institute of Cancer Research.
   Breakthrough promotes education and awareness of breast cancer amongst the public, policy makers, health professionals and the media. For further information about Breakthrough or breast cancer visit www.breakthrough.org.uk or call the charity’s free telephone number on 08080 100 200.
    
2. Breakthrough Breast Cancer launched Screening Saves Lives in 2006,  a campaign to promote awareness of breast screening and increase attendance, ensure that intervals between screening appointments are no longer than three years and that there is enough capacity within the UK's screening programme to cope with extra demand on the service in the future.

Supporting National Thrombosis Week

Alison joined forces with Interior Designer, Linda Barker, at the launch of “The National Clottery” campaign in parliament, aimed at raising awareness of the risks of hospital-acquired deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Alison welcomed news that every primary school will have a "maths Champion" within 10 years, who will act as a mentor and coach.

Ed Balls and Andrew Adonis today accepted the recommendations of the Williams Review – a major independent review of maths in primary schools and early-years settings – and announced plans to train more than 1,000 specialist maths teachers a year over the next 10 years.

• £24 million will be invested over the next three years to set up and begin implementing a major training programme for 13,000 existing primary school teachers. Specialist maths teachers will be paid up to £8,000 in incentive payments and rewards to train towards gaining a Masters in maths teaching.
•  In his review Sir Peter Williams calls for an urgent shift to reverse the "can't do attitude" to maths , saying today that he wants every pupil to leave primary school "without a fear of maths".

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• Alison Seabeck 2010