Standing up for students 🪧
On Tuesday night, I was incredibly proud to stand alongside parents, children and teachers from Suffolks and Bishop Stopford's as we came together to fight for the future of these much-valued schools. Our community deserves better and our children deserve the best education, not to be let down by the decisions made by Conservative and Green Councillors.
The strength of feeling from families was clear to see. These schools are at the heart of our community and provide an outstanding education for local children. I spoke to the BBC about the vital role both schools play, particularly in supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Their commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive should be celebrated and protected.
That is why I was deeply disappointed that the chair of the overview & scrutiny committee Sarah Jons, the Enfield Lock Green councillor, used her casting vote alongside the Conservative council administration to continue pursuing the closure of these schools. For many families, this decision will feel like a betrayal. On this crucial issue, the Greens chose to side with the Conservatives administration, letting down children and families across the east of our borough.
But this campaign is far from over.
I know how hard parents, pupils, teachers and governors have worked to make their voices heard, and I want them to know that I stand firmly with them. I will continue to challenge Enfield Council and Green councillors on the decisions they are making, hold them to account, and do everything I can to support efforts to save our schools.
Our community has shown incredible determination throughout this campaign. Together, we will keep making the case for the excellent education these schools provide and the difference they make to so many local families.
That is why later today I will be speaking directly to the parents of students at Bishops Stortford and Suffolks Primary School at a town hall meeting. I look forward to discussing our shared concerns and working towards a resolution that works for our whole community.
Nine Decades of Bringing Our Community Together 🏓
It was an absolute pleasure to join Ellenborough Table Tennis Club as it celebrated an incredible milestone, its 90th anniversary.
Founded in 1936, before the Second World War, the club has spent nine decades bringing people together through sport, friendship and community spirit. Reaching such a remarkable anniversary is a testament to the dedication of generations of players, coaches and volunteers who have helped the club thrive over the years.
It was wonderful to meet members of all ages and hear their stories. What stood out most was the enthusiasm and passion shared by everyone involved. Table tennis is a sport that truly spans the generations, offering opportunities for people to stay active, challenge themselves and connect with others throughout their lives.
For young people in particular, table tennis offers so much more than physical activity. It helps develop concentration, coordination and confidence, skills that can make a real difference both on the sports hall floor and in the classroom. At the same time, it provides a welcoming environment where friendships can flourish and people can enjoy being part of their community.
I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the club's success over the past 90 years, especially the coaches and volunteers who generously give their time to encourage and support others. Their commitment ensures that future generations will continue to benefit from everything the club has to offer.
The anniversary celebrations were a fantastic reminder of the important role local clubs play in bringing communities together. I am already looking forward to seeing Ellenborough Table Tennis Club mark its centenary in 2036. That gives me ten years to work on my backhand! 🏓🎉
Improving Rail Connections for Enfield North 🚅
There was welcome news this week for rail passengers across Enfield, with confirmation that four trains per hour will return to Gordon Hill and Enfield Chase during the daytime and early evening from 14 December. For many residents, that will mean shorter waits and more convenient journeys for work, study and visiting friends and family.
I have been pressing Lord Hendy, the Rail Minister, to restore these services, and I am pleased to see progress being made. Thank you as well to Joanne McCartney and everyone who has continued to campaign for better rail connections in our area.
This improvement comes as the Government continues its plans to deliver a simpler, more reliable railway through Great British Railways, bringing track and train services together under one publicly owned organisation and giving passengers a stronger voice through a new Passenger Watchdog. The reforms are designed to cut delays, simplify ticketing and put passengers first.
There is still more to do. Crews Hill will not yet benefit from these additional services, and Sunday services remain unchanged. I will continue pushing for better connections across all our communities.
As always, please check timetables before you travel. 🚆
Marking Remembrance in Parliament
It was deeply moving to attend the Parliamentary Remembrance Service and remember those from Enfield North and across the country who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
It was also an honour to pay tribute to my friend Calvin Bailey MBE MP and his service in the RAF, while recognising the courage and dedication of all those currently serving in our Armed Forces.
We owe a profound debt of gratitude to our service personnel and the families who stand beside them.
We will remember them. 🌺
A Positive Outcome for both social care workers and Ankara Agreement Families
I was delighted to hear this week that the Home Secretary has confirmed Ankara Agreement applicants will not be affected by the recent immigration changes. Many constituents took the time to share their experiences and concerns with me, and I am grateful to everyone who spoke up. This decision provides much-needed certainty for individuals and families who have built their lives here in the UK.
I am also really pleased that the Government has listened to concerns about changes affecting care workers and set out a fair solution. Care workers answered our country's call when they were needed most, caring for our sick and elderly and making a huge contribution to communities like Enfield North.
I have worked closely with UNISON and others to make the case that people who came here under agreed visa conditions should be treated fairly. Those who have worked hard, paid into the system and built their lives here should not have the rules changed on them after they arrive.
The decision to keep a five-year route to settlement for eligible care workers is the right one. Thank you to everyone who shared their story and supported this campaign. Together, we helped secure a fair and important outcome.
Tackling Water Challenges Through Local Leadership 💧
This week, the Government announced new regional water councils that will give local communities a much greater say over decisions affecting water quality, flooding and future investment. These councils will help shape billions of pounds of spending on water and flood infrastructure, ensuring local priorities are heard.
For too long, decisions about our rivers, water bills and infrastructure have been driven by water companies and regulators, with limited input from the communities they serve. The new councils will bring together local leaders, customers and other representatives to help set priorities for their region.
The reforms will also give mayors new powers to hold water companies to account, helping ensure that poor performance does not go unchallenged. From sewage pollution to flooding and drought, local people will have a stronger voice in the decisions that affect their area.
These changes are an important step towards putting communities back at the heart of decision-making and ensuring water companies deliver better outcomes for billpayers and the environment.
Have a great weekend.
Best wishes
Feryal