The progress we’ve made in bringing the virus under control is thanks to the hard work and sacrifices of so many people and the phenomenal success of our vaccine rollout.
Our local vaccination teams have been working flat out for the past five months getting jabs into arms. Over 580,000 people in Kent have now received two doses of a Covid vaccine, helping to save lives and get us back to something like normal life.
But we are not out of the woods yet. These next few weeks will be crucial in keeping the virus under control and keeping our recovery on track. Everyone can play their part by following the guidance, taking up the offer to get vaccinated, and getting tested regularly.
National recovery was at the heart of the Queen’s Speech earlier this month. A new Health and Care Bill will help us better integrate services and give people the care they need closer to home. A new public body for our railways will help deliver simpler fares and reliable services. And an enhanced Environment Bill will put nature at the heart of our recovery.
There is still a long way to go, but we are on the road to recovery.
It was good to be back at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham this month to give a talk in the school’s new lecture theatre.
I’ve been keeping in contact with the school’s headteacher during lockdown through my virtual roundtable meetings, but it was good to catch up with staff and pupils in person.
I spoke to Year 12 students at the school about life as an MP and Minister during the pandemic and my journey into politics.
I’m pleased that the new funding formula for schools is making a difference – particularly to schools that have been historically underfunded. This is something I called for along with other Kent MPs.
Last week, I visited Hollingbourne Primary School to talk about the improvement work the school is trying to secure, and was given a tour by two of the Year 6 House Captains.
