Alex Norris MP

Welcome to the latest issue of my weekly newsletter.

Local elections – not in Nottingham, however – have dominated this week but still plenty to talk about. Following on from last week’s feature, I’m also very pleased to hear that Nottingham Bowls Club won the EIBA Top Club Championship in Poole on Saturday, with great wins against last year’s champions, Swale, and then Falcon (Chelmsford) in the final. Well done team!

And now for some data protection again…

A couple of weeks ago I sent an email out which asked for written permission (by email is fine) to store your email address for the purpose of sending these newsletters, and the occasional other political mail out. I love sending these newsletters and want them to get to as many of you as possible every week, but unless I receive an email or letter from you giving your permission before May 25th, I won’t be able to send them to you afterwards, until that permission is granted.

Hundreds of you have already replied, and for that I’m very grateful, but if you haven’t already then please do so if you would like to continue reading. The easiest way to do so is to either reply to this newsletter or the email I originally sent letting me know that I can keep your email address. If you change your mind at any point, you can be removed exactly the same way.

Read on to find out how what my week’s involved…

As I’ve said before, I will strive to send you a newsletter like this each Friday to keep you updated on the work I’m doing in Parliament as well as in our community, and to inform you of any interesting events taking place in our area. To help me with the latter, if you are running or know of anything that you think may be of interest to others, feel free to drop me an email at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk and I will include it in future issues. Please also forward it onto anyone you think may be interested.

Ken Williams

Recently we lost Ken Williams. Ken was a dedicated community activist and City Councillor in the East of the city. He was a man of humour, with a big heart who made our community a better place. He was a very good friend of mine and he will be very much missed by all who knew him. On Monday we celebrated his life with an uplifting memorial that was a testament to a life well lived.

Bendigo Walk

On Sunday I joined about 20 other locals in raising money for a statue of 19th Century Nottingham boxing legend William ‘Bendigo’ Thompson.

We walked from Bendigo’s former home on Wollaton Road in Beeston to his grave in Bath Street in Nottingham City Centre, where we heard a reading from the book Bendigo – The Right Fist of God and local actor Peter ‘Little John’ Radford recited from Bendigo’s Sermon, a poem by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

I had a great day, and I’m sure everyone else did too, but most importantly we raised a lot of money for a statue of Bendigo. Sponsorship money is still rolling in but by all accounts everyone’s done a great job and we’re well on our way to getting the statue erected.

I’m glad that we’ve been able to raise awareness of Nottingham’s first champion boxer and more importantly raise money for a statue to honour him. Legend has it that his ghost still haunts Bestwood.

I haven’t seen it whilst I’ve been out canvassing but soon we can have a more permanent memorial that will show our young people about Nottingham’s proud boxing heritage and maybe encourage them to take it up themselves.

The next event will be on the afternoon of Saturday 14th July, when we will have a celebratory party at the former Bendigo Pub on Sneinton Hermitage.

Nurses’ Day

Last Wednesday was RCN’s International Nurses’ Day, and I was very pleased to be able to meet frontline nurses in Parliament to celebrate their contribution.

I heard all about the valuable contributions nursing staff make to patient care. Nursing is a highly-skilled profession and it’s often underappreciated how nursing staff are required to care for patients in a variety of settings such as, at music festivals, in prisons and in accident and emergency departments.

This day was a fantastic way to show our support for nursing staff in our health and care services. It gave us a chance to thank them for the care they provide to our families, friends, neighbours and colleagues, and I’d encourage everyone to celebrate the remarkable work of our local nurses.

As Brexit negotiations continue we’re currently facing a period of uncertainty of the consequences the deal could have on NHS staffing, which relies heavily on EU citizens. 10,000 EU employees have already, and we can’t afford to allow this to continue. As part of Labour’s health team, I will continue to press Ministers to do more to ensure that EU nationals working in the NHS feel valued and able to continue to make a vital contribution to health care in our country.

In Nottingham

As well as the Bendigo walk on Sunday, I spent all of Monday and Friday in Nottingham this week. Here’s what I got up to:

• As the Windrush scandal continues, with a new Home Secretary now in place, I met with constituents to make sure they are not affected. We will continue to press the Government to fix the whole situation as soon as possible and make up for all the hurt, anxiety, and inconvenience they have caused. On Wednesday the Government voted down a motion compelling them to release all the paperwork relating to Windrush. What are they hiding?
• I met with Tyson Amurun, local resident and activist, on how I can work to improve police diversity, locally and nationwide.
• On a related note, I spoke with Mick Taylor from the Nottinghamshire Police Federation about the Assaults on Emergency Workers Bill which is passing through Parliament. I fully support the Bill, and spoke in favour during its Second Reading. The Police Federation have recommended a number of amendments to the Bill, which will be considered during the third reading.
• Following the E.ON Apprentice Celebration a few weeks ago, I was able to finally visit E.ON’s local site at Phoenix Park, where I was shown around and heard all about the direction the company are moving towards.
• I also met with Nottingham City Council to discuss dental health.

This evening I’m heading to the BBC to record the Sunday Politics show – keep an eye out Sunday morning! –  and then meeting local young people to discuss the implications of Brexit on their generation.

In Parliament

With the two full days in Nottingham, and a day of campaigning elsewhere yesterday as there were local elections across the country, my time in Parliament this week was limited to Tuesday and Wednesday, but here’s what I got up to while I was there:

• I had a couple of meetings about Safe Standing – as I work out how to most effectively persuade the Government to allow such areas to the top two English leagues. Meetings with Peter Daykin from the Football Supporter’s Federation and Nick Roberts from the English Football League were both very productive, and now that a debate has been planned as a result of the petition reaching 100,000 signatures, we have a great opportunity for progress here. Stay tuned!
• Relatedly, I also attended a meeting of the APPG for Football Supporter’s, where a Celtic representative (where safe standing is in effect), explained the technology behind it to us, and fellow supporters were able to discuss the campaign strategy.
• I also met with Michael Pickton, from the Advertising Association, to discuss the role of advertising in relation to public health, with a particular focus on childhood obesity. His organisation work to promote the role, rights and responsibilities of advertising and its impact on individuals, the economy and society, so play a significant role in ensuring safe advertising that is best for the consumer.
• And I met with Rick Hall from Ignite!, an incredible organisation which helps to inspire and build confidence in children through STEM subjects, but in a more fun interactive way than they’re likely to get in school. Multiple events are planned in the constituency, and I discussed with Rick how I can help support these projects, and help them reach as many of our youngsters as possible!

What’s On

I want these emails to be as interesting as possible. That means there’ll be some politics – it’s important that I am held accountable. But I also want to offer information about what’s on locally. So, if you have an event you’d like me to advertise, let me know.

Community Integration Day
Free Family Food & Fun, including music, stalls, food & activities, and community support groups in attendance
St. Mary the Virgin & All Souls Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
Saturday 5th May, 12-4pm

Bird Carving for Beginners Craft Workshop
Spring woodland workshop for adults and accompanied over 12s, all equipment provided
Barkers Community Woodland, Norwich Gardens, Bulwell, NG6 8GG
7th May, 10am-1:30pm
£30 p.p., all profits to woodland upkeep, to book call The Toy Library on
0115 975 3898.

Three Doors Down
Over the next 6 months, Andy Barrett from Excavate Theatre Company is working with local people who live in and around Minver Crescent in Aspley, to uncover the stories of life in the area over the last 80 years. A series of events are being planned from theatre in living rooms and front gardens, to storytelling, filmmaking and photography to engage as many residents as possible. Contact Cathy Mahmood on 07808 165209 cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com or Andy Barrett andy@excavate.org.ukfor further information. Dates for your diary include:

• Sat 26th May, 6-8pm, The Minver Crescent Nosh Up.

Poems in the Pub
Open Mic Night, Free Admission, Local Talent, Full Bar
The William Peverel, Bulwell
Once a month, 7pm for 7:30pm start, next on 7th June

Drop in Café
All welcome for a free cuppa and biscuit, and a place to sit and have a chat
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish Community Centre, Brooklyn Rd, Bulwell NG6 9ES
Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm

Messy Church
All welcome – food, fun, arts & crafts, & God slot
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
2nd Sunday every month, 3-5pm

Messy Church Bestwood/Bulwell Forest
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Rd, Bestwood Park
Various Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Church on Rise Park, Revelstoke Way, Rise Park
Various Thursdays, 5-6:30pm

Messy Church
Drinks, crafts, activities, bible stories and a meal for all ages and interests
Bulwell United Reformed Church, Broomhill Road/Brooklyn Road, Bulwell
Usually first Saturday of every month, 10:30am-12:30pm

Bestwood Park Church’s Bestop Kitchen
Social Eating Event, Donations Welcome
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Road, NG5 5NG
Every Tuesday, 12-2pm; Tuesday 26th June is the Kitchen’s 1st birthday

Free Community Cinema
Free screenings of films, everyone welcome!
St John’s Church, Key’s Close, Bulwell
2nd Friday every month, 7pm

Bulwell Connectors
Free monthly group developing opportunities for more art in public places in Bulwell. With trips to galleries and hands-on creative workshops, this group is for local people who want to be arts champions for Bulwell. Facilitated by Nottingham Contemporary associate artist Gillian Brent
Bulwell Riverside, Community Room 2
2nd Tuesday every month, 6-8pm
For further info: www.creativenottinghamnorth.com, @CreativeNNorth, cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com

Crafty Ladies
Bring along a project, or learn to do something new.
St Martins Church, St Martin’s Rd, Off Strelley Rd, Bilborough, NG8 3BH
Every Wednesday, 11am – 2pm
50p, for further info: www.stmartinsbilborough.org.uk, info@stmartinsbilborough.uk

Crochet Clinic
Community Room at Tesco Bulwell, Jennison St, NG6 8EQ (upstairs near the cafe)
First Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm–8:30pm
£5 (covers refreshments and materials)
For further info: www.apriltowriess.co.uk, hello@apriltowriess.co.uk

If you would like your events advertised here, or further information on those advertised, please email me at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk.

That’s all for now! Details of how to get in touch or to have a look at the things I’m doing are below…

All the best,

Alex

How to contact me

If you would like to contact me, please email alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk or give my Nottingham North constituency office a ring on 0115 975 2377.

If you are a constituent from Nottingham North e-mailing me regarding a casework issue you are my priority, so please ensure your message includes:

• your full name
• your full postal address, including postcode
• a contact telephone number and
• any helpful details relevant to your case such as date of birth, reference numbers etc.

Strict parliamentary protocol means I can only deal with issues on behalf of my own constituents. If you aren’t sure whether you live in Nottingham North, you can check who your local MP is by entering your postcode online here: findyourmp.parliament.uk.

You may also wish to write to me with your concerns. If so please send your correspondence to Alex Norris MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA. All constituents who take the time and trouble to write a personal letter will receive a reply as a matter of priority.

Other useful links

• Alex’s Website: click here.
• Alex’s Twitter: click here.
• Nottingham City Council: click here.
• Find your MP: click here.
• Register to vote: click here.
• School term dates in Nottingham: click here.

LABOUR PARTY

• If you’d like to learn more about the Labour party their website is here.
• To join the Labour Party click here.

LOCAL NEWS

• Nottingham BBC news: click here.
• East Midlands BBC news: click here.
• Nottingham Post: click here.
• Notts TV: click here.

LOCAL INFORMATION

• Benefits Information: Here’s an excellent site that allows you to find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to claim: EntitledTo
• Housing: please contact your City Council
• Problems with benefits or the Child Support Agency? The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Nottingham Welfare Rights Service can give advice. Remember to have your National Insurance number handy if you make an inquiry.
• Local schools / education matters: please contact your City Council.
• Employment rights: see Citizens Advice Bureau or the Trades Union Congress for info.
• Social services, environmental health, noise nuisance, parking, and Council Tax should all be addressed to the City Council.
• Another useful website on public services is Direct.gov.

NATIONAL LINKS

• For the main Parliamentary website click here and to explore the Parliamentary education site click here.

Welcome to the latest issue of my weekly newsletter.

Recess is almost over now and on Monday I’ll be back in Parliament. This week’s been quieter than last so as well as what I’ve been up to, there’s some important world news to talk about, and I’ll preview what I have planned for when I returned to Parliament.

And I’m still training and raising money as on April 22nd I’ll be taking part in the London Marathon.

Tackling Domestic Abuse in Nottingham is one of my major priorities for my time as Nottingham North’s Member of Parliament. Largely I prioritise this through asking Parliamentary Questions or taking part in debates however this time I’m doing something a little more direct, as I run in support of Women’s Aid Integrated Services (WAIS) Nottingham.

WAIS do incredible work for women, teenagers and children affected by domestic abuse, and I’ve worked closely with WAIS Nottingham for many years – this is a small way of thanking them for all they do.

As for the run… it’ll be 26.2 pretty painful miles. I’ve done quite a bit of training so I should get around, but it’s not likely to be much fun. I’ll feel much better about grinding though those last few miles knowing that the money raised will be going to such an important cause. If anyone could donate to this great cause, my fundraising page can be found here. I’m hoping to raise £1000 for them, which is currently at an amazing £510! Thanks to everyone who’s donated so far.

Read on to find out how what my week’s involved…

As I’ve said before, I will strive to send you a newsletter like this each Friday to keep you updated on the work I’m doing in Parliament as well as in our community, and to inform you of any interesting events taking place in our area. To help me with the latter, if you are running or know of anything that you think may be of interest to others, feel free to drop me an email at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk and I will include it in future issues. Please also forward it onto anyone you think may be interested.

Syria

Chances are you’ve seen the awful news from Syria this week and several constituents have already contacted me sharing their views on the matter. I’m always happy to hear anyone’s views on any issue, and always try to reply directly to anyone who lives in the constituency, but thought I’d use the newsletter to lay out my position on the situation in Douma here too.

If you haven’t kept up to date with what’s going on, recent reports from Douma, a city on the outskirts of Damascus, point to an attack having been carried out with chemical weapons, in full contravention of international humanitarian law. The evidence of the deaths and suffering inflicted by the attack, including on young children, is horrific and I believe that those responsible must be held to account.

Both the Assad regime and Isis have been held responsible for the use of chemical weapons in the past since the start of the Syrian conflict, a war crime which I utterly condemn and therefore welcome the investigation being carried out in Douma by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Their inspectors should be given full access to the site.

Furthermore, I support the call by the UN secretary general for a wider and full independent investigation of the use of chemical weapons in Syria by any party to the conflict, which demands urgent Security Council agreement.

I am however deeply concerned at the threat by the US president to launch further military action in Syria in response to the suspected Douma attack, even before any independent report by either the OPCW or any renewed UN investigation. I therefore believe that any proposal by the Government to support such a US military intervention by the British government and expand its military campaign in Syria should be brought to parliament and its strategy held to account.

I am very keen to know what you think about this. It is possible that this will be the subject of a Parliamentary vote and would like to have a wide range of views and information on which to make these judgement.

The one thing I would ask is that if and when you communicate with me about the possible options you do so in the spirit that neither way is objectively the “right” one and that there is no immediate course of action that would stop the suffering of Syrians – something that we all seek. When this was last discussed in 2013 it seemed to me that MPs were made out to be the best or the worst people in the world, “warmongers” or “appeasers” – depending on your view – as if they weren’t trying to do the best by people who are suffering. I hope we can do better than this.

In Nottingham

I mentioned before that it’s been quite a quiet week as I have had some time off, but here are some of things I did get up to during my time in Nottingham this week:

• I very much enjoyed attending the National Bowls Finals, which were hosted in the constituency this week, at the Nottingham Indoor Bowls Centre on Beechdale Road. It’s very rare that we get sportspeople from all over the country competing locally, making it a big occasion, and everyone taking part made it look so easy! I also had a chance to discuss more practical issues that the club are having with their board, which I’m keen to help with.
• Ahead of this weekend’s Grand National, I visited the Coral in Bulwell to see how things operate on one of their busiest days of the year. As we look to protect people from exploitative practices and gambling addiction, it’s very important to work closely with the shops to do so, and there’s no better way to do that than seeing it first-hand. I also placed a bet, from which any unlikely winnings will go to support Women’s Aid as part of my Marathon efforts.

And tonight I’m off to the Theatre Royal to see This House, a play all about politics that I’ve heard great things about! A bit of a busman’s holiday when you think about it…

Looking forwards

I’m sure Syria will dominate Parliament when we return on Monday but there’s plenty more happening as the Parliamentary session continues until the summer.  Here are some of things that I have lined up, which I’ll tell you about in more detail as they happen:

• Co-Op are publishing their latest report, ‘Ownership Matters’, next week, and I’ll be attending the event which also has a private roundtable discussion of its content.
• I’ll be working with ‘Labour Together’, a group of like-minded Labour MPs, on a research project centred on understanding ‘new working class’ communities.
• I’ll be continuing my work as part of Labour’s health team – with important debates upcoming on fertility services, surgical mesh, and cancer treatment amongst others.
• In the next few weeks Parliament will be debating several important topics that have an effect on ordinary people’s lives, including the second reading of the Rating (Property in Common Occupation) and Council Tax (Empty Dwellings) Bill, and Westminster Hall debates on popular petitions on Brexit and the Privatisation of the NHS.
• I will be campaigning in support of the reintroduction of safe standing areas to league football grounds across the UK – through Parliamentary Questions as well as trying to secure a Parliamentary debate
• As well as the above, I’ll also be trying to secure debates on Shared Surface Roads and HMP Nottingham.
• I’ll be continuing my work as co-chairs of the All-Party Parliamentary Groups for the East Midlands and Sport, Modern Slavery and Human Rights.
• And of course, I’ll be spending as much time in the constituency as possible, meeting local people and organisations and doing what I can to help with the issues that are important to them.

There will be more detail on some of these next week, so keep your eyes peeled.

What’s On

I want these emails to be as interesting as possible. That means there’ll be some politics – it’s important that I am held accountable. But I also want to offer information about what’s on locally. So, if you have an event you’d like me to advertise, let me know.

Ties in Notts need your vote to win this year’s People’s Projects Central East. There’s more info below – but you can vote at www.thepeoplesprojects.org.uk from 9am Monday 16th April until midday Monday 30th April.

Free Organ Recital
With talented organist, Mr Michael Anthony
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell 
Tuesday 17th April, 10.40–11.15am

Erasmus+ funding
Funding is available for youth organisations in Nottingham North. Next deadline for youth funding is 26th April. More information here.

Joining Lines – Community Crochet Project for Bulwell Riverside 
Local Designer and Maker April Towriess has launched an appeal to crocheters from far and wide to send her white crocheted doilies! These will form part of an installation and exhibition at Bulwell Riverside in the this summer. You can follow April’s Unity Doily pattern, which can be found here or use one of your own. Use any white yarn or thread weight you like. When submitting your doily or doilies, let April know your name, age, gender and briefly describe who taught you to crochet and why you do it now.  Each doily and set of comments will be photographed and added to a blurb book which will be available to purchase. All proceeds will be donated to charity.  The closing date for submissions is Saturday 26th April 2018. 

Send your doilies to:
Chris Tilley Community Champion, C/O April Towriess Crochet
Joining Lines Project, Bulwell Tesco Extra Community Room, Jennison Street, Nottingham, NG6 8EQ

Three Doors Down
Over the next 6 months, Andy Barrett from Excavate Theatre Company is working with local people who live in and around Minver Crescent in Aspley, to uncover the stories of life in the area over the last 80 years. A series of events are being planned from theatre in living rooms and front gardens, to storytelling, filmmaking and photography to engage as many residents as possible. Contact Cathy Mahmood on 07808 165209 cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com or Andy Barrett andy@excavate.org.uk for further information. Dates for your diary include:

• Sat 21st April, 11am-3pm, Film making Day
• Sat 26th May, 6-8pm, The Minver Crescent Nosh Up.

Poems in the Pub
Open Mic Night, Free Admission, Local Talent, Full Bar
The William Peverel, Bulwell
Once a month, 7pm for 7:30pm start, next on 3rd May

Drop in Café
All welcome for a free cuppa and biscuit, and a place to sit and have a chat
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish Community Centre, Brooklyn Rd, Bulwell NG6 9ES
Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm

Messy Church
All welcome – food, fun, arts & crafts, & God slot
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
2nd Sunday every month, 3-5pm
The next Messy Church will be Sunday 8th April, tied in with a special 40th Anniversary Service & Rededication of the church’s West Room and Upper Hall.  Children and their Mums/Dads/Carers are invited to join at 9.30am for a free breakfast.  The special service starts at 10am, with fun games and arts & crafts to follow; all finished off with a lovely lunch.        

St Philip’s/St Matthew’s Knit & Natter groups
St Philip’s Church, Knights Close, Top Valley
1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month, 10am-12pm
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
2nd Monday every month, 10am-12pm

Messy Church Bestwood/Bulwell Forest
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
Various Tuesdays, 4:30-6pm
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Rd, Bestwood Park
Various Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Church on Rise Park, Revelstoke Way, Rise Park
Various Thursdays, 5-6:30pm

Messy Church
Drinks, crafts, activities, bible stories and a meal for all ages and interests
Bulwell United Reformed Church, Broomhill Road/Brooklyn Road, Bulwell
Usually first Saturday of every month, 10:30am-12:30pm

Bestwood Park Church’s Bestop Kitchen
Social Eating Event, Donations Welcome
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Road, NG5 5NG
Every Tuesday, 12-2pm; Tuesday 26th June is the Kitchen’s 1st birthday

Free Community Cinema
Free screenings of films, everyone welcome!
St John’s Church, Key’s Close, Bulwell
2nd Friday every month, 7pm

Bulwell Connectors
Free monthly group developing opportunities for more art in public places in Bulwell. With trips to galleries and hands-on creative workshops, this group is for local people who want to be arts champions for Bulwell. Facilitated by Nottingham Contemporary associate artist Gillian Brent
Bulwell Riverside, Community Room 2
2nd Tuesday every month, 6-8pm
For further info: www.creativenottinghamnorth.com, @CreativeNNorth, cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com

Crafty Ladies
Bring along a project, or learn to do something new.
St Martins Church, St Martin’s Rd, Off Strelley Rd, Bilborough, NG8 3BH
Every Wednesday, 11am – 2pm
50p, for further info: www.stmartinsbilborough.org.uk, info@stmartinsbilborough.uk

Crochet Clinic
Community Room at Tesco Bulwell, Jennison St, NG6 8EQ (upstairs near the cafe)
First Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm–8:30pm
£5 (covers refreshments and materials)
For further info: www.apriltowriess.co.uk, hello@apriltowriess.co.uk

Sound as a Pound have asked me to advertise their 2-day finance ‘Money Talks’ courses in Nottingham. Transport and lunch are both provided, attendees will receive a £10 gift voucher for each day and there are plenty of other freebies on offer, as well as some sound money-saving advice! For further information you can call 0115 844 3745, email soundasapound@ncha.org.ukor visit their website at www.soundasapound.org.

If you would like your events advertised here, or further information on those advertised, please email me at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk.

That’s all for now! Details of how to get in touch or to have a look at the things I’m doing are below…

All the best,

Alex

How to contact me

If you would like to contact me, please email alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk or give my Nottingham North constituency office a ring on 0115 975 2377.

If you are a constituent from Nottingham North e-mailing me regarding a casework issue you are my priority, so please ensure your message includes:

• your full name
• your full postal address, including postcode
• a contact telephone number and
• any helpful details relevant to your case such as date of birth, reference numbers etc.

Strict parliamentary protocol means I can only deal with issues on behalf of my own constituents. If you aren’t sure whether you live in Nottingham North, you can check who your local MP is by entering your postcode online here: findyourmp.parliament.uk.

You may also wish to write to me with your concerns. If so please send your correspondence to Alex Norris MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA. All constituents who take the time and trouble to write a personal letter will receive a reply as a matter of priority.

Other useful links

• Alex’s Website: click here.
• Alex’s Twitter: click here.
• Nottingham City Council: click here.
• Find your MP: click here.
• Register to vote: click here.
• School term dates in Nottingham: click here.

LABOUR PARTY

• If you’d like to learn more about the Labour party their website is here.
• To join the Labour Party click here.

LOCAL NEWS

• Nottingham BBC news: click here.
• East Midlands BBC news: click here.
• Nottingham Post: click here.
• Notts TV: click here.

LOCAL INFORMATION

• Benefits Information: Here’s an excellent site that allows you to find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to claim: EntitledTo
• Housing: please contact your City Council
• Problems with benefits or the Child Support Agency? The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Nottingham Welfare Rights Service can give advice. Remember to have your National Insurance number handy if you make an inquiry.
• Local schools / education matters: please contact your City Council.
• Employment rights: see Citizens Advice Bureau or the Trades Union Congress for info.
• Social services, environmental health, noise nuisance, parking, and Council Tax should all be addressed to the City Council.
• Another useful website on public services is Direct.gov.

NATIONAL LINKS

• For the main Parliamentary website click here and to explore the Parliamentary education site click here.

Welcome to the latest issue of my weekly newsletter.

I hope everyone had a good Easter break and is back into the swing of things now. It’s Parliamentary recess now so I’ve been in Nottingham all week, and had a very interesting week to tell you about – even stepping out of my comfort zone a little!

There’s also been plenty of running, because, as I mentioned last week, on April 22nd I’ll be taking part in the London Marathon.

Tackling Domestic Abuse in Nottingham is one of my major priorities for my time as Nottingham North’s Member of Parliament. Largely I prioritise this through asking Parliamentary Questions or taking part in debates however this time I’m doing something a little more direct, as I run in support of Women’s Aid Integrated Services (WAIS) Nottingham.

WAIS do incredible work for women, teenagers and children affected by domestic abuse, and I’ve worked closely with WAIS Nottingham for many years – this is a small way of thanking them for all they do.

As for the run… it’ll be 26.2 pretty painful miles. I’ve done quite a bit of training so I should get around, but it’s not likely to be much fun. I’ll feel much better about grinding though those last few miles knowing that the money raised will be going to such an important cause. If anyone could donate to this great cause, my fundraising page can be found here. I’m hoping to raise £1000 for them!

Read on to find out how what my week’s involved…

As I’ve said before, I will strive to send you a newsletter like this each Friday to keep you updated on the work I’m doing in Parliament as well as in our community, and to inform you of any interesting events taking place in our area. To help me with the latter, if you are running or know of anything that you think may be of interest to others, feel free to drop me an email at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk and I will include it in future issues. Please also forward it onto anyone you think may be interested.

The DWP

One of the best things about recess is that it gives me the opportunity to do things I don’t have time for when Parliament’s in session, especially in the constituency, and on Tuesday I managed to spend most the day in one place, which is almost unheard of. This was Bulwell Job Centre, where I had an incredibly interesting day courtesy of the Nottingham Department for Work of Pensions.

A lot of the casework that I deal with relates to unemployment, DWP Benefits and the rollout of Universal Credit, so this day was an interesting insight into both the day-to-day work that’s done at the Job Centre and the experience of those who go to there for assistance. I was talked through a wide variety of what’s done at the Centre, and given a chance to sit in on interviews with claimants to see first-hand how things go.

There were a number of different sessions throughout the day, focussing on the following aspects of the Job Centre’s work amongst others:

• Small Employer Advice
• Legacy Work Coaching – this is work for the semi-retired and older generations
• A Digital Session focussed on Web Access Devices and Internet Access Devices
• Disability Employment Advice
• Employer Relations
• Complex Needs Planning
• Service Delivery
• Universal Credit Work

As you can see this is an incredibly wide variety of important work, and far from all that’s done there. In fact, I’ll be heading back again before too long to learn even more – keep an eye out for when I return. Big thanks to Cllr Jackie Morris for suggesting I did this!

Ground-breaking

Being a Nottingham MP, a member of Labour’s Health team and an Alumnus of the University of Nottingham meant that on Wednesday I was very proud to be invited back to the University to do the official ‘ground-breaking’ of construction on one of the University’s new buildings – an extension to the Centre for Biomolecular Sciences.

This building will house the new Centre for Cancer Sciences, and will be used by academics, researchers and doctorate students in a wide variety of serious diseases including cancer, cardiovascular, liver, bone and respiratory conditions. While there I was told about how improved collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and academics has allowed faster progress in combating these diseases, and this building aims to continue in that vein of collaboration, by providing a single base at the University for researchers who can then benefit through sharing their expertise and ideas. Currently the 350 people who will use the building are based at six different sites, even though their ground-breaking work would benefit from their co-locating.

I very much appreciate being given such an honour, and very much enjoyed seeing up close some of the work that’s being done in the Centre for Biomolecular Sciences as it is now, including seeing beating heart cells which were originally produced from a tiny biopsy of skin cells. One of the PhD students I met had even been working on starting and stopping the beating using light – as an alternative to a typical pacemaker.

I look forward to visiting the building again once construction has finished late next year, and I’m sure GF Tomlinson – the local construction company building the centre who joined me on the day – will do a wonderful job.

Photo by Andrew Hallsworth, Copyright University of Nottingham

NUH NHS Trust

City Hospital is somewhere I visit quite regularly, thankfully given my health background and that it falls partially within Nottingham North rather than any health issues of my own, and today was another such visit, for the first MPs meeting of 2018. As the Trust runs the QMC and Ropewalk House as well as City Hospital, I was joined by both Lilian Greenwood MP and Chris Leslie MP, to discuss several important areas and issues that span citywide with the Trust leadership. These included:

• Winter pressures
• Hospital performance
• Finance
• Nottingham Treatment Centre
• The Anti-abortion protest by the 40 Days for Life group
• Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Sustainability and Transformation Partnership

Despite the Government’s financial neglect of the NHS financially, I think the Trust are doing a tremendous job, and coped admirably over the tough winter period, which is hopefully now behind us!

In Nottingham

As well as that listed above, here’s some of what else I’ve been up to in the constituency this week:

• I met with Steve and Paul from Bulwell Toy Library, and Matt from Futures to discuss fundraising opportunities for my Rebalancing charity.
• I had a long discussion with Mike Sassi, Editor of the Nottingham Post, about Data Protection, the Leveson enquiry, the role of local media in society, and the coverage that the Post does in Nottingham. Amongst the large national media, local papers and their TV and internet equivalents, can often be overlooked, but often the news they report is more important to the day-to-day lives of their readers, so I’m keen to support them and investigate the issues they face.
• I discussed allotments in the city. I know we have a lot of keen owners in the constituency and more opportunities for others to get involved would only benefit our community.
• I grabbed a coffee with Raza Ali from Riverside Pharmacy to discuss the issues his business is facing
• I visited the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service HQ to meet with John Buckley, the Chief Fire Officer, to talk about the Service’s role in the area
• I also caught up with Bestwood Councillor Brian Grocock to discuss some issues in his ward.
• And I met with a couple of constituents to discuss some of the issues that matter to them, in the absence of a surgery this week. The next one will be on 20th April, so get in touch with my Nottingham office if you’d like an appointment.

That’s all for this week, be back again next week with a preview of what’s to come when Parliament returns.

What’s On

I want these emails to be as interesting as possible. That means there’ll be some politics – it’s important that I am held accountable. But I also want to offer information about what’s on locally. So, if you have an event you’d like me to advertise, let me know.

Lost in Memories
A performance about dementia and caring, in partnership with Bulwell Arts Festival
Bulwell Academy, Squires Avenue, Bulwell, NG6 8HG
Tomorrow, Saturday 7th April, 3pm for 3:30pm start
Free event, donations welcome to cover costs
For more info please contact Cllr Cheryl Barnard, 07946 467190

Erasmus+ funding
Work for a school in Nottingham North? Apply for some of the €170m Erasmus+ funding available this year for schools to exchange staff and pupils. The next deadline for school exchange partnerships is 21st March. Apply now here.

Funding is also available for youth organisations in Nottingham North. Next deadline for youth funding is 26th April. More information here.

Bulwell Arts Festival Applications Open! Deadline 31st March 2018
Applications are open to artists, workshop leaders, performers and volunteers! Taking place from Sat 7th – Sat 14th July 2018, this eight-day festival celebrates the creativity of the people, history and landscape of Bulwell.  You can apply to take part via their online application form here. 

Joining Lines – Community Crochet Project for Bulwell Riverside 
Local Designer and Maker April Towriess has launched an appeal to crocheters from far and wide to send her white crocheted doilies! These will form part of an installation and exhibition at Bulwell Riverside in the this summer. You can follow April’s Unity Doily pattern, which can be found here or use one of your own. Use any white yarn or thread weight you like. When submitting your doily or doilies, let April know your name, age, gender and briefly describe who taught you to crochet and why you do it now.  Each doily and set of comments will be photographed and added to a blurb book which will be available to purchase. All proceeds will be donated to charity.  The closing date for submissions is Saturday 26th April 2018. 

Send your doilies to:
Chris Tilley Community Champion, C/O April Towriess Crochet
Joining Lines Project, Bulwell Tesco Extra Community Room, Jennison Street, Nottingham, NG6 8EQ

Three Doors Down
Over the next 6 months, Andy Barrett from Excavate Theatre Company is working with local people who live in and around Minver Crescent in Aspley, to uncover the stories of life in the area over the last 80 years. A series of events are being planned from theatre in living rooms and front gardens, to storytelling, filmmaking and photography to engage as many residents as possible. Contact Cathy Mahmood on 07808 165209 cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com or Andy Barrett andy@excavate.org.uk for further information. Dates for your diary include:

·         Sat 21st April, 11am-3pm, Film making Day

·         Sat 26th May, 6-8pm, The Minver Crescent Nosh Up.

Poems in the Pub
Open Mic Night, Free Admission, Local Talent, Full Bar
The William Peverel, Bulwell
Once a month, 7pm for 7:30pm start, next on 3rd May

Drop in Café
All welcome for a free cuppa and biscuit, and a place to sit and have a chat
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish Community Centre, Brooklyn Rd, Bulwell NG6 9ES
Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm

Messy Church
All welcome – food, fun, arts & crafts, & God slot
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
2nd Sunday every month, 3-5pm
The next Messy Church will be Sunday 8th April, tied in with a special 40th Anniversary Service & Rededication of the church’s West Room and Upper Hall.  Children and their Mums/Dads/Carers are invited to join at 9.30am for a free breakfast.  The special service starts at 10am, with fun games and arts & crafts to follow; all finished off with a lovely lunch.        

St Philip’s/St Matthew’s Knit & Natter groups
St Philip’s Church, Knights Close, Top Valley
1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month, 10am-12pm
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
2nd Monday every month, 10am-12pm

Messy Church Bestwood/Bulwell Forest
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
Various Tuesdays, 4:30-6pm
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Rd, Bestwood Park
Various Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Church on Rise Park, Revelstoke Way, Rise Park
Various Thursdays, 5-6:30pm

Messy Church
Drinks, crafts, activities, bible stories and a meal for all ages and interests
Bulwell United Reformed Church, Broomhill Road/Brooklyn Road, Bulwell
Usually first Saturday of every month, 10:30am-12:30pm

Bestwood Park Church’s Bestop Kitchen
Social Eating Event, Donations Welcome
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Road, NG5 5NG
Every Tuesday, 12-2pm; Tuesday 26th June is the Kitchen’s 1st birthday

Free Community Cinema
Free screenings of films, everyone welcome!
St John’s Church, Key’s Close, Bulwell
2nd Friday every month, 7pm

Bulwell Connectors
Free monthly group developing opportunities for more art in public places in Bulwell. With trips to galleries and hands-on creative workshops, this group is for local people who want to be arts champions for Bulwell. Facilitated by Nottingham Contemporary associate artist Gillian Brent
Bulwell Riverside, Community Room 2
2nd Tuesday every month, 6-8pm
For further info: www.creativenottinghamnorth.com, @CreativeNNorth, cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com

Crafty Ladies
Bring along a project, or learn to do something new.
St Martins Church, St Martin’s Rd, Off Strelley Rd, Bilborough, NG8 3BH
Every Wednesday, 11am – 2pm
50p, for further info: www.stmartinsbilborough.org.uk, info@stmartinsbilborough.uk

Crochet Clinic
Community Room at Tesco Bulwell, Jennison St, NG6 8EQ (upstairs near the cafe)
First Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm–8:30pm
£5 (covers refreshments and materials)
For further info: www.apriltowriess.co.uk, hello@apriltowriess.co.uk

Sound as a Pound have asked me to advertise their 2-day finance ‘Money Talks’ courses in Nottingham. Transport and lunch are both provided, attendees will receive a £10 gift voucher for each day and there are plenty of other freebies on offer, as well as some sound money-saving advice! For further information you can call 0115 844 3745, email soundasapound@ncha.org.ukor visit their website at www.soundasapound.org.

If you would like your events advertised here, or further information on those advertised, please email me at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk.

That’s all for now! Details of how to get in touch or to have a look at the things I’m doing are below…

All the best,

Alex

How to contact me

If you would like to contact me, please email alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk or give my Nottingham North constituency office a ring on 0115 975 2377.

If you are a constituent from Nottingham North e-mailing me regarding a casework issue you are my priority, so please ensure your message includes:

• your full name
• your full postal address, including postcode
• a contact telephone number and
• any helpful details relevant to your case such as date of birth, reference numbers etc.

Strict parliamentary protocol means I can only deal with issues on behalf of my own constituents. If you aren’t sure whether you live in Nottingham North, you can check who your local MP is by entering your postcode online here: findyourmp.parliament.uk.

You may also wish to write to me with your concerns. If so please send your correspondence to Alex Norris MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA. All constituents who take the time and trouble to write a personal letter will receive a reply as a matter of priority.

Other useful links

• Alex’s Website: click here.
• Alex’s Twitter: click here.
• Nottingham City Council: click here.
• Find your MP: click here.
• Register to vote: click here.
• School term dates in Nottingham: click here.

LABOUR PARTY

• If you’d like to learn more about the Labour party their website is here.
• To join the Labour Party click here.

LOCAL NEWS

• Nottingham BBC news: click here.
• East Midlands BBC news: click here.
• Nottingham Post: click here.
• Notts TV: click here.

LOCAL INFORMATION

• Benefits Information: Here’s an excellent site that allows you to find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to claim: EntitledTo
• Housing: please contact your City Council
• Problems with benefits or the Child Support Agency? The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Nottingham Welfare Rights Service can give advice. Remember to have your National Insurance number handy if you make an inquiry.
• Local schools / education matters: please contact your City Council.
• Employment rights: see Citizens Advice Bureau or the Trades Union Congress for info.
• Social services, environmental health, noise nuisance, parking, and Council Tax should all be addressed to the City Council.
• Another useful website on public services is Direct.gov.

NATIONAL LINKS

• For the main Parliamentary website click here and to explore the Parliamentary education site click here.

Welcome to the latest issue of my weekly newsletter.

A day early this week as we get ready for a long Easter weekend! I’ll be using some of mine to run, as on April 22nd, I’ll be taking part in the London Marathon.

Tackling Domestic Abuse in Nottingham is one of my major priorities for my time as Nottingham North’s Member of Parliament. Largely I prioritise this through asking Parliamentary Questions or taking part in debates however this time I’m doing something a little more direct, as I run in support of Women’s Aid Integrated Services (WAIS) Nottingham.

WAIS do incredible work for women, teenagers and children affected by domestic abuse, and I’ve worked closely with WAIS Nottingham for many years – this is a small way of thanking them for all they do.

As for the run… it’ll be 26.2 pretty painful miles. I’ve done quite a bit of training so I should get around, but it’s not likely to be much fun. I’ll feel much better about grinding though those last few miles knowing that the money raised will be going to such an important cause. If anyone could donate to this great cause, my fundraising page can be found here. I’m hoping to raise £1000 for them!

Read on to find out how what my week’s involved…

As I’ve said before, I will strive to send you a newsletter like this each Friday to keep you updated on the work I’m doing in Parliament as well as in our community, and to inform you of any interesting events taking place in our area. To help me with the latter, if you are running or know of anything that you think may be of interest to others, feel free to drop me an email at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk and I will include it in future issues. Please also forward it onto anyone you think may be interested.

Secure Tenancies Bill Committee

Being away from any Public Bill Committees didn’t last long, as on Tuesday I sat on the Committee for the Secure Tenancies (Victims of Domestic Abuse) Bill. This Bill will ensure that when provisions in the Housing and Planning Act 2016 are brought into force requiring local authorities in England to offer only fixed-term tenancies, this will not apply to certain victims of domestic abuse. This addresses an important concern raised during the 2016 Act’s progress through Parliament that victims of domestic abuse would be less likely to leave their homes if doing so would result in an offer of a tenancy with reduced security of tenure. This is incredibly important, and as this Bill was first put forward in the House of Lords, I’m pleased that it is now close to becoming law.

However, my Labour colleagues and I attempted to make it even better in the Committee Stage, by ensuring that certain aspects were explicitly defined to avoid any potential future barriers. Unfortunately, the Government didn’t find this necessary, but we can soon be glad of this law regardless. I know that Women’s Aid have campaigned extensively to get it in place and can be proud of their efforts.

Passports

If you’ve been following the news lately you’ll know that the Government has recently decided to contract Franco-Dutch firm Gemalto to produce the post-Brexit UK passports. They beat out Hampshire based firm De La Rue, with the Government citing cost as the decisive factor.

Looking at the decision from a purely cost-based perspective is short-sighted however. That fails to acknowledge the value of employing British workers to do the job, tax which can be generated from their income and other indirect benefits.

Defending UK jobs is important. The decision puts 200 jobs at risk immediately, and more could follow unless work is found for the plants which have produced the UK passport without a hitch for the past decade.

This week I’ve therefore been showing my support for Unite’s campaign against the decision, to try save these jobs.

Aspley Sewing Workshop

On Thursday mornings in Parliament, the Leader of the House of Commons, which is currently Andrea Leadsom, discusses the Business of the House with Parliament. This gives MPs an opportunity to ask for a debate on a local topic that’s important to them (while not expecting to be given a debate!). This week I used that opportunity to highlight the Aspley Sewing Workshop, a wonderful local group which has emerged recently and is still growing. You can watch the mention here.

The Aspley Sewing Workshop has been a fantastic example of how the arts can bring different communities together, reduce social isolation and help create a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Over the last 8 weeks, in a project funded by Near Neighbours, 39 women from different faiths and cultures have made use of an underused centre in the heart of their estate – coming together each week to learn to use sewing machines. They have designed and made their own clothes, for themselves and their children, they have used donated fabrics to make bags, cushions and soft toys.

Kimberley Errington from a local social enterprise called ‘Make to Make’ has been facilitating the sessions and is now handing the reigns over to the group who are determined to keep the regular weekly sessions going.

Rebalancing, the charity that I’m proud to Chair in my constituency, works in partnership with residents to activate more creativity in the outer estates of Nottingham North. As Michelle, one of the participants says, ‘we’d all just be sitting in our houses if it wasn’t for this group. Lots of us suffer from anxiety and we’ve found it so welcoming and supportive – we’ve got to keep it going.’

We are encouraging people to take part in developing ‘local creative hubs’ where they live. We believe in the power of art to transform lives and increase people’s health and wellbeing.

In Parliament

On Sunday night I visited Aspley Pentecostal Church to hear Barry Woodward’s story of beating addiction, which was informative and inspiring, then headed to Parliament for the week:

• On Tuesday I asked Ministers from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office what efforts the Government would be making to support Qatar’s progress on workers’ rights and welfare, as highlighted in Impactt’s audit of the Qatari Supreme Committee. You can watch here.
• Yesterday, before Prime Minister’s Questions, I asked Cabinet Office ministers to commit to tackling the 6 million people left off the electoral register, rather than putting all their efforts into the instances of electoral fraud that can be counted on one hand. You can watch this here.
• Today I followed up a constituent’s visit to my last surgery, as I brought up the issue of Syria in Parliament, asking the Secretary of State for International Development if she agreed that the Government’s timid reaction to Turkish aggression has compounded the issue. You can watch here.
• On Monday I met with colleagues to discuss the effectiveness of the Modern Slavery Act since its inception into British Law.
• I went to a drop in on the proposed Phase Two route of HS2. HS2 Ltd Chief Executive Mark Thurston was present, as well as area managers and leads from their Engagement, Environment, and Land & Property teams.
• I met with Bowel Cancer UK and Beating Bowel Cancer – who have recently merged, to discuss their priorities and what I can do to help their cause.
• I discussed the ongoing sleep-in back pay crisis currently threatening the social care sector and its potential impact on Nottingham with Learning Disability Voices.
• I caught up with James Bowling from Severn Trent Water to discuss the work they’re doing locally.
• And today I met with Duncan McCormick, who is an advisor to the Qatari Supreme Committee, which is responsible for the 2022 World Cup.

Easter

As this week’s been a little short I’ve not had much time in the constituency to share with you, but with recess starting today I’ll be around for the next 2 weeks, so here’s a very short preview of some of what I have planned. Of course, I’ll fill you in with more detail next Friday:

• I’ll be spending a day at with the Department for Work and Pensions at Bulwell Job Centre.
• I’ll be meeting with Mike Sassi, Editor of the Nottingham Post.
• I’ll be doing some work towards funding ideas for Rebalancing.
• I’ll be meeting to discuss Nottingham City Allotments.
• I’ll be catching up with the wonderful Nottingham Fire and Rescue Service.
• And I’ll be joining other MPs for a meeting at NUH NHS Trust

Look forward to more detail on the above and more soon!

What’s On

I want these emails to be as interesting as possible. That means there’ll be some politics – it’s important that I am held accountable. But I also want to offer information about what’s on locally. So, if you have an event you’d like me to advertise, let me know.

Easter Services at Emmanuel Church, Bestwood
Maundy Thursday 6pm, St. Mark’s Bestwood Village for shared food and a service.
Good Friday at Emmanuel Church 10am-12pm family time, 2pm Hour at The Cross.
Easter Sunday: 6:30am Sunrise Service in Bestwood Country Park followed by pastries and coffee at St. Mark’s
Holy Communion 10am at Emmanuel Church, 10:45am at St. Mark’s

Easter Sunday at St. Mary’s
Free breakfast for 5-11 year olds and their families at 9.30am.  Followed by Easter Service at 10am, with an egg-citing Easter Egg hunt to follow for the children.
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
Easter Sunday, April 1st, from 9.30am

Lost in Memories
A performance about dementia and caring, in partnership with Bulwell Arts Festival
Bulwell Academy, Squires Avenue, Bulwell, NG6 8HG
Saturday 7th April, 3pm for 3:30pm start
Free event, donations welcome to cover costs
For more info please contact Cllr Cheryl Barnard, 07946 467190

Erasmus+ funding
Work for a school in Nottingham North? Apply for some of the €170m Erasmus+ funding available this year for schools to exchange staff and pupils. The next deadline for school exchange partnerships is 21st March. Apply now here.

Funding is also available for youth organisations in Nottingham North. Next deadline for youth funding is 26th April. More information here.

Bulwell Arts Festival Applications Open! Deadline 31st March 2018
Applications are open to artists, workshop leaders, performers and volunteers! Taking place from Sat 7th – Sat 14th July 2018, this eight-day festival celebrates the creativity of the people, history and landscape of Bulwell.  You can apply to take part via their online application form here. 

Joining Lines – Community Crochet Project for Bulwell Riverside 
Local Designer and Maker April Towriess has launched an appeal to crocheters from far and wide to send her white crocheted doilies! These will form part of an installation and exhibition at Bulwell Riverside in the this summer. You can follow April’s Unity Doily pattern, which can be found here or use one of your own. Use any white yarn or thread weight you like. When submitting your doily or doilies, let April know your name, age, gender and briefly describe who taught you to crochet and why you do it now.  Each doily and set of comments will be photographed and added to a blurb book which will be available to purchase. All proceeds will be donated to charity.  The closing date for submissions is Saturday 26th April 2018. 

Send your doilies to:
Chris Tilley Community Champion, C/O April Towriess Crochet
Joining Lines Project, Bulwell Tesco Extra Community Room, Jennison Street, Nottingham, NG6 8EQ

Three Doors Down
Over the next 6 months, Andy Barrett from Excavate Theatre Company is working with local people who live in and around Minver Crescent in Aspley, to uncover the stories of life in the area over the last 80 years. A series of events are being planned from theatre in living rooms and front gardens, to storytelling, filmmaking and photography to engage as many residents as possible. Contact Cathy Mahmood on 07808 165209 cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com or Andy Barrett andy@excavate.org.uk for further information. Dates for your diary include:

• Sat 21st April, 11am-3pm, Film making Day
• Sat 26th May, 6-8pm, The Minver Crescent Nosh Up.

Poems in the Pub
Open Mic Night, Free Admission, Local Talent, Full Bar
The William Peverel, Bulwell
Once a month, 7pm for 7:30pm start, next on 5th April

Drop in Café
All welcome for a free cuppa and biscuit, and a place to sit and have a chat
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish Community Centre, Brooklyn Rd, Bulwell NG6 9ES
Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm

Messy Church
All welcome – food, fun, arts & crafts, & God slot
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
2nd Sunday every month, 3-5pm
The next Messy Church will be Sunday 8th April, tied in with a special 40th Anniversary Service & Rededication of the church’s West Room and Upper Hall.  Children and their Mums/Dads/Carers are invited to join at 9.30am for a free breakfast.  The special service starts at 10am, with fun games and arts & crafts to follow; all finished off with a lovely lunch.        

St Philip’s/St Matthew’s Knit & Natter groups
St Philip’s Church, Knights Close, Top Valley
1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month, 10am-12pm
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
2nd Monday every month, 10am-12pm

Messy Church Bestwood/Bulwell Forest
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
Various Tuesdays, 4:30-6pm
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Rd, Bestwood Park
Various Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Church on Rise Park, Revelstoke Way, Rise Park
Various Thursdays, 5-6:30pm

Messy Church
Drinks, crafts, activities, bible stories and a meal for all ages and interests
Bulwell United Reformed Church, Broomhill Road/Brooklyn Road, Bulwell
Usually first Saturday of every month, 10:30am-12:30pm

Bestwood Park Church’s Bestop Kitchen
Social Eating Event, Donations Welcome
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Road, NG5 5NG
Every Tuesday, 12-2pm

Free Community Cinema
Free screenings of films, everyone welcome!
St John’s Church, Key’s Close, Bulwell
2nd Friday every month, 7pm

Bulwell Connectors
Free monthly group developing opportunities for more art in public places in Bulwell. With trips to galleries and hands-on creative workshops, this group is for local people who want to be arts champions for Bulwell. Facilitated by Nottingham Contemporary associate artist Gillian Brent
Bulwell Riverside, Community Room 2
2nd Tuesday every month, 6-8pm
For further info: www.creativenottinghamnorth.com, @CreativeNNorth, cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com

Crafty Ladies
Bring along a project, or learn to do something new.
St Martins Church, St Martin’s Rd, Off Strelley Rd, Bilborough, NG8 3BH
Every Wednesday, 11am – 2pm
50p, for further info: www.stmartinsbilborough.org.uk, info@stmartinsbilborough.uk

Crochet Clinic
Community Room at Tesco Bulwell, Jennison St, NG6 8EQ (upstairs near the cafe)
First Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm–8:30pm
£5 (covers refreshments and materials)
For further info: www.apriltowriess.co.uk, hello@apriltowriess.co.uk

Sound as a Pound have asked me to advertise their 2-day finance ‘Money Talks’ courses in Nottingham. Transport and lunch are both provided, attendees will receive a £10 gift voucher for each day and there are plenty of other freebies on offer, as well as some sound money-saving advice! For further information you can call 0115 844 3745, email soundasapound@ncha.org.ukor visit their website at www.soundasapound.org.

If you would like your events advertised here, or further information on those advertised, please email me at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk.

That’s all for now! Details of how to get in touch or to have a look at the things I’m doing are below…

All the best,

Alex

How to contact me

If you would like to contact me, please email alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk or give my Nottingham North constituency office a ring on 0115 975 2377.

If you are a constituent from Nottingham North e-mailing me regarding a casework issue you are my priority, so please ensure your message includes:

• your full name
• your full postal address, including postcode
• a contact telephone number and
• any helpful details relevant to your case such as date of birth, reference numbers etc.

Strict parliamentary protocol means I can only deal with issues on behalf of my own constituents. If you aren’t sure whether you live in Nottingham North, you can check who your local MP is by entering your postcode online here: findyourmp.parliament.uk.

You may also wish to write to me with your concerns. If so please send your correspondence to Alex Norris MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA. All constituents who take the time and trouble to write a personal letter will receive a reply as a matter of priority.

Other useful links

• Alex’s Website: click here.
• Alex’s Twitter: click here.
• Nottingham City Council: click here.
• Find your MP: click here.
• Register to vote: click here.
• School term dates in Nottingham: click here.

LABOUR PARTY

• If you’d like to learn more about the Labour party their website is here.
• To join the Labour Party click here.

LOCAL NEWS

• Nottingham BBC news: click here.
• East Midlands BBC news: click here.
• Nottingham Post: click here.
• Notts TV: click here.

LOCAL INFORMATION

• Benefits Information: Here’s an excellent site that allows you to find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to claim: EntitledTo
• Housing: please contact your City Council
• Problems with benefits or the Child Support Agency? The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Nottingham Welfare Rights Service can give advice. Remember to have your National Insurance number handy if you make an inquiry.
• Local schools / education matters: please contact your City Council.
• Employment rights: see Citizens Advice Bureau or the Trades Union Congress for info.
• Social services, environmental health, noise nuisance, parking, and Council Tax should all be addressed to the City Council.
• Another useful website on public services is Direct.gov.

NATIONAL LINKS

• For the main Parliamentary website click here and to explore the Parliamentary education site click here.

Welcome to the latest issue of my weekly newsletter.

Lots going on as always. Happily, I managed to get back home on Wednesday night so I’ve had two full days at events locally. So, I’ve plenty to tell you about my week both here and down in Westminster, beginning with a local tipple.

Before you read on to find out what I’ve been up to, I’d also like to praise the successful campaign victory which has led to the Government removing the pay cap for NHS staff. While this has come far too late, and the planned rises over the next 3 years are still likely to lead to a small cut in real terms over that time, thousands of incredible workers who have been the backbone of the NHS without just reward will soon be getting the pay raise that their service and dedication warrants, and that’s something worth celebrating. I hope that the effects this will have on morale and loyalty will make the Government realise just how big a mistake it was for this to take so long.

As I’ve said before, I will strive to send you a newsletter like this each Friday to keep you updated on the work I’m doing in Parliament as well as in our community, and to inform you of any interesting events taking place in our area. To help me with the latter, if you are running or know of anything that you think may be of interest to others, feel free to drop me an email atalex.norris.mp@parliament.uk and I will include it in future issues. Please also forward it onto anyone you think may be interested.

Shipstone’s

Members of Parliament can arrange with the Parliamentary authorities that they stock a guest beer from their constituency for a week, so this week I arranged for Shipstone’s Beer to be served in Parliament.

As a relatively new Member of Parliament I am trying to make a practical difference to my community. Part of this is supporting local businesses whenever possible, as the products they produce and the people they employ form the lifeblood of our communities, and how better to do that than in Parliament itself. I wanted to highlight the good work that Shipstone’s does because they are a brewery with a mission: make a good beer with a history behind every pour.

I know that many of you are fond of signing that ‘you’ll never beat Des Walker’ and now we’re showing my colleagues that you can’t beat a pint of Nottingham beer either. I think the work that Richard Neale does is terrific. He saw this piece of our community’s history disappearing, so he took it upon himself to bring it back.

Shipstone’s Brewery was founded in 1852 by James Shipstone and continued by his sons. After rising high and dominating the region in the early 20th century, Shipstone’s found itself on the downturn until it sold the name to Greenall’s in 1978. All production ended in 1991.

After looking to revive the tradition of family owned regional English beers, Richard decided that it was his goal to bring Shipstone’s back to its former glory.  Now as a microbrewery of only three people all working to conserve a piece of Nottingham’s history, Shipstone’s is once again thriving, with its reimagined line offering a core range of heritage brews including; Original Bitter, Gold Star pale ale, chocolate malt Nut Brown and a traditional India Pale Ale.

For more information about Shipstone’s Beer products and its history please visit their website here.

In Nottingham

This afternoon I was proud to launch the Bulwell Health & Wellbeing Programme 2018, at Bulwell Riverside.

The Health and Wellbeing Programme, is a guide put together by the charity I chair, Rebalancing, to the many social groups and regular activities in Bulwell that are available to local people. Having a wide range of such activities is incredibly important to making sure people stay healthy, and the effects of that spread into other aspects of life. Steve Lack, our local NHS co-ordinator introduced the event, and I was very pleased to follow him by opening it and talking about the context of the programme, before we also heard from local activist Bill Blackamore, who spoke about the programme in more depth. Once we’d finished talking, everyone who attended had a chance to check out everything that was on offer and do some networking.

I hope that lots of you can take advantage of all the opportunities available, and I was very proud to launch this great initiative.

On a rare occasion outside of recesses, I was lucky to be able to spend two full days in the constituency this week, and took advantage of the extra time to catch up with lots of other great local people and groups too:

• I visited Henry Whipple Primary School to talk with their year 6 class about my job as an MP and politics in general. It’s never too early to get people interested!
• I also joined Rufford Primary School, this time to observe one of Nottingham Trent University’s outreach programs in action. Both of Nottingham’s Universities do some excellent work with schools and the rest of the communities, that I’m eager to support as much as possible, and encourage them to put as much of it into our constituency as we can, where University application rates are far lower than they could be.
• I attended and spoke at last night’s Bilborough Gems Awards. This is a wonderful local initiative, funded by Bilborough Councillors, to annually recognise the achievements of local young people. Congratulations to all those who were recognised; I was very proud to be involved!
• I met with Wayne Morley and Alun Bullivant from UNISON Nottingham to discuss markets in Nottingham, the value they bring to their local communities, and how we can support the wonderful Bulwell Market in particular, after having also attended an APPG for Markets recently.
• I had breakfast at Bluecoat Aspley with Sian Hampton, the CEO of Archway Learning Trust, which runs both that school and Bluecoat Beechdale in the constituency. We had a great discussion about the Trust and its plans for the future including growth of Post 16 education in the City.
• I met with Pete Rogers, Community Organiser with Nottingham Citizens, to discuss how I can continue to support the incredible work they do locally.
• Prior to the health launch I had also attended a board meeting of Rebalancing.
• And very importantly I had a security update meeting with Nottinghamshire Police!

Local Government

As a former city councillor, and executive councillor for Health and Adults, I have first-hand experience of the good that local authorities can do. By providing infrastructure and services that make a massive difference to people’s day-to-day lives, councils can often have a much more direct impact than central Government, even if their scope is much narrower. I also however understand how difficult it can be for local authorities to do everything they need to when the funding isn’t sufficient.

Now I’m no longer a councillor, I’ve instead been using my position as Member of Parliament to stick up for and promote the work of local government, so they can continue the good work they do.

On Tuesday morning, I did this through an intervention in a Westminster Hall Debate on ‘Investment in local infrastructure to secure new homes in the East Midlands’. I believe that far too often communities are pitched against developers when houses are to be built. This doesn’t need to be the case, and when the Council is the builder I think we can avoid some of this. As I mentioned last week, Nottingham City Council’s ability to do this has been hamstrung by the cap on central funding for housing projects, despite the Government’s rhetoric, and this is something I will continue to press until the cap is lifted. You can watch my intervention here.

In Parliament

It feels like the first time in a while that I haven’t been on a Bill Committee while in Westminster, and that’s meant I’ve had a bit more time to catch up with my busy meeting schedule:

• Met with Jon Dale from Unite, with whom I discussed the role of Psychology in helping those struggling with their mental health. He particularly highlighted the value of Specialist Psychological Services in prevention and intervention of severe mental health problems, as well as outlining some of the problems that face the Psychology profession and how we can begin to solve them.
• Had a quick coffee with former Secretary of State, and now Director of the English Labour Network, John Denham for a chat on the Network’s latest work.
• I met with Bruce Warwick from Diabetes UK to discuss the importance of food labelling tackling Diabetes.
• Caught up with Hugh Casswell, formerly of Notts TV, who is now Political Reporter for BBC Radio Nottingham. Local press can be a very useful tool for both campaigning and keeping people informed, so it’s great to have close relationships like this.
• I met with Ed Funnell from Abellio, one of the bidders for the East Midlands Rail Franchise, the future of which will be decided next year.
• We had the latest meeting of the East Midlands APPG, which I co-chair, where we discussed the impact of HS2 on the region.
• I attended a Fabians meeting with other new MPs centred around ideas for Parliamentary Reform – it’s always important to consider how we can improve ourselves.
• And last but not least, I was lucky enough to be invited along to meet Manchester City representatives about the work they do in communities in Manchester. Given their club’s wonderful success this year, hopefully I can bring some of the ideas to Nottingham!

What’s On

I want these emails to be as interesting as possible. That means there’ll be some politics – it’s important that I am held accountable. But I also want to offer information about what’s on locally. So, if you have an event you’d like me to advertise, let me know.

Hear from Barry Woodward
Evangelist Barry Woodward, author of “Once an Addict” talking about how God transformed his life
Aspley Pentecostal Church, 369 Aspley Lane, NG8 5RR
This Sunday, 25th March, 3pm

Easter Sunday at St. Mary’s
Free breakfast for 5-11 year olds and their families at 9.30am.  Followed by Easter Service at 10am, with an egg-citing Easter Egg hunt to follow for the children.
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
Easter Sunday, April 1st, from 9.30am

Lost in Memories
A performance about dementia and caring, in partnership with Bulwell Arts Festival
Bulwell Academy, Squires Avenue, Bulwell, NG6 8HG
Saturday 7th April, 3pm for 3:30pm start
Free event, donations welcome to cover costs
For more info please contact Cllr Cheryl Barnard, 07946 467190

Erasmus+ funding
Work for a school in Nottingham North? Apply for some of the €170m Erasmus+ funding available this year for schools to exchange staff and pupils. The next deadline for school exchange partnerships is 21st March. Apply now here.

Funding is also available for youth organisations in Nottingham North. Next deadline for youth funding is 26th April. More information here.

Bilborough Arts Festival (BArts)
Apply now! BArts is gearing up for a second year in venues across Bilborough – involving community groups, schools and individual artists organising creative opportunities and showcasing their work. BArts will take place from Saturday 30 June – Fri 6th July 2018 and the organisers are looking for local artists and volunteers to apply to take part in exhibitions, performances or to run workshops.  The deadline for online applications is 26th March 2018 – find out more here.

Bulwell Arts Festival Applications Open! Deadline 31st March 2018
Applications are open to artists, workshop leaders, performers and volunteers! Taking place from Sat 7th – Sat 14th July 2018, this eight-day festival celebrates the creativity of the people, history and landscape of Bulwell.  You can apply to take part via their online application form here. 

Joining Lines – Community Crochet Project for Bulwell Riverside 
Local Designer and Maker April Towriess has launched an appeal to crocheters from far and wide to send her white crocheted doilies! These will form part of an installation and exhibition at Bulwell Riverside in the this summer. You can follow April’s Unity Doily pattern, which can be found here or use one of your own. Use any white yarn or thread weight you like. When submitting your doily or doilies, let April know your name, age, gender and briefly describe who taught you to crochet and why you do it now.  Each doily and set of comments will be photographed and added to a blurb book which will be available to purchase. All proceeds will be donated to charity.  The closing date for submissions is Saturday 26th April 2018. 

Send your doilies to:
Chris Tilley Community Champion, C/O April Towriess Crochet
Joining Lines Project, Bulwell Tesco Extra Community Room, Jennison Street, Nottingham, NG6 8EQ

Three Doors Down
Over the next 6 months, Andy Barrett from Excavate Theatre Company is working with local people who live in and around Minver Crescent in Aspley, to uncover the stories of life in the area over the last 80 years. A series of events are being planned from theatre in living rooms and front gardens, to storytelling, filmmaking and photography to engage as many residents as possible. Contact Cathy Mahmood on 07808 165209 cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com or Andy Barrett andy@excavate.org.uk for further information. Dates for your diary include:

•           Sat 10th March, 11am-3pm, Project Launch Day, ACTC

•           Sat 21st April, 11am-3pm, Film making Day

•           Sat 26th May, 6-8pm, The Minver Crescent Nosh Up.

Poems in the Pub
Open Mic Night, Free Admission, Local Talent, Full Bar
The William Peverel, Bulwell
Once a month, 7pm for 7:30pm start, next on 5th April

Drop in Café
All welcome for a free cuppa and biscuit, and a place to sit and have a chat
Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Parish Community Centre, Brooklyn Rd, Bulwell NG6 9ES
Thursdays, 9:30am–12:30pm

Messy Church
All welcome – food, fun, arts & crafts, & God slot
St Mary the Virgin & All Souls Parish Church, Highbury Road, Bulwell
2nd Sunday every month, 3-5pm
The next Messy Church will be Sunday 8th April, tied in with a special 40th Anniversary Service & Rededication of the church’s West Room and Upper Hall.  Children and their Mums/Dads/Carers are invited to join at 9.30am for a free breakfast.  The special service starts at 10am, with fun games and arts & crafts to follow; all finished off with a lovely lunch.        

St Philip’s/St Matthew’s Knit & Natter groups
St Philip’s Church, Knights Close, Top Valley
1st and 3rd Wednesdays every month, 10am-12pm
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
2nd Monday every month, 10am-12pm

Messy Church Bestwood/Bulwell Forest
Bestwood Community Centre, Gainsford Crescent, Bestwood Estate
Various Tuesdays, 4:30-6pm
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Rd, Bestwood Park
Various Thursdays, 4:30-6pm
Church on Rise Park, Revelstoke Way, Rise Park
Various Thursdays, 5-6:30pm

Messy Church
Drinks, crafts, activities, bible stories and a meal for all ages and interests
Bulwell United Reformed Church, Broomhill Road/Brooklyn Road, Bulwell
Usually first Saturday of every month, 10:30am-12:30pm

Bestwood Park Church’s Bestop Kitchen
Social Eating Event, Donations Welcome
Bestwood Park Church, Beckhampton Road, NG5 5NG
Every Tuesday, 12-2pm

Free Community Cinema
Free screenings of films, everyone welcome!
St John’s Church, Key’s Close, Bulwell
2nd Friday every month, 7pm

Bulwell Connectors
Free monthly group developing opportunities for more art in public places in Bulwell. With trips to galleries and hands-on creative workshops, this group is for local people who want to be arts champions for Bulwell. Facilitated by Nottingham Contemporary associate artist Gillian Brent
Bulwell Riverside, Community Room 2
2nd Tuesday every month, 6-8pm
For further info: www.creativenottinghamnorth.com, @CreativeNNorth, cathy.mahmood@rebalancingouterestates.com

Crafty Ladies
Bring along a project, or learn to do something new.
St Martins Church, St Martin’s Rd, Off Strelley Rd, Bilborough, NG8 3BH
Every Wednesday, 11am – 2pm
50p, for further info: www.stmartinsbilborough.org.uk, info@stmartinsbilborough.uk

Crochet Clinic
Community Room at Tesco Bulwell, Jennison St, NG6 8EQ (upstairs near the cafe)
First Wednesday of every month, 6:30pm–8:30pm
£5 (covers refreshments and materials)
For further info: www.apriltowriess.co.uk, hello@apriltowriess.co.uk

Sound as a Pound have asked me to advertise their 2-day finance ‘Money Talks’ courses in Nottingham. Transport and lunch are both provided, attendees will receive a £10 gift voucher for each day and there are plenty of other freebies on offer, as well as some sound money-saving advice! For further information you can call 0115 844 3745, email soundasapound@ncha.org.ukor visit their website at www.soundasapound.org.

If you would like your events advertised here, or further information on those advertised, please email me at alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk.

That’s all for now! Details of how to get in touch or to have a look at the things I’m doing are below…

All the best,

Alex

How to contact me

If you would like to contact me, please email alex.norris.mp@parliament.uk or give my Nottingham North constituency office a ring on 0115 975 2377.

If you are a constituent from Nottingham North e-mailing me regarding a casework issue you are my priority, so please ensure your message includes:

• your full name
• your full postal address, including postcode
• a contact telephone number and
• any helpful details relevant to your case such as date of birth, reference numbers etc.

Strict parliamentary protocol means I can only deal with issues on behalf of my own constituents. If you aren’t sure whether you live in Nottingham North, you can check who your local MP is by entering your postcode online here: findyourmp.parliament.uk.

You may also wish to write to me with your concerns. If so please send your correspondence to Alex Norris MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA. All constituents who take the time and trouble to write a personal letter will receive a reply as a matter of priority.

Other useful links

• Alex’s Website: click here.
• Alex’s Twitter: click here.
• Nottingham City Council: click here.
• Find your MP: click here.
• Register to vote: click here.
• School term dates in Nottingham: click here.

LABOUR PARTY

• If you’d like to learn more about the Labour party their website is here.
• To join the Labour Party click here.

LOCAL NEWS

• Nottingham BBC news: click here.
• East Midlands BBC news: click here.
• Nottingham Post: click here.
• Notts TV: click here.

LOCAL INFORMATION

• Benefits Information: Here’s an excellent site that allows you to find out exactly what benefits you are eligible to claim: EntitledTo
• Housing: please contact your City Council
• Problems with benefits or the Child Support Agency? The Citizens Advice Bureau and the Nottingham Welfare Rights Service can give advice. Remember to have your National Insurance number handy if you make an inquiry.
• Local schools / education matters: please contact your City Council.
• Employment rights: see Citizens Advice Bureau or the Trades Union Congress for info.
• Social services, environmental health, noise nuisance, parking, and Council Tax should all be addressed to the City Council.
• Another useful website on public services is Direct.gov.

NATIONAL LINKS

• For the main Parliamentary website click here and to explore the Parliamentary education site click here.