NHS staff and key workers keep our town going

Charlotte’s Column for Warrington Guardian

They say a week is a long time in politics, but the month since my last column has probably been one of the most eventful our country has ever seen.

I want to begin by paying tribute to the NHS staff and key workers who are going above and beyond to keep our town going – doctors, nurses, pharmacists, cleaners, porters, council workers, postal workers, bus and delivery drivers, ambulance staff, retail staff, care workers, food manufacturers, teachers, police and many more.

And to our volunteers who have stepped up – from the Sikh community donating meals to Warrington Hospital, to the schools manufacturing vital PPE, and the ordinary members of the community doing the extraordinary! Thank you.

I was exposed to the virus in Parliament after a number of colleagues in my shared office became ill and while I feel fine, I have followed all Government guidance regarding travel and self-isolation.

Recess would usually be a time jam packed with visits to schools, workplaces and community groups, which have all unfortunately had to be postponed for safety reasons.

My constituency office in Orford has also had to close its doors temporarily, but me and my team are all working from home supporting constituents on a variety of issues.

While I might be a new MP, there is almost 40 years of experience in my team and this has proved invaluable in allowing us to meet unprecedented demand for advice and support.