It's normal to us, but there is something special about living in a place where people stop for a chat, look out for one another, and take pride in what is on their doorstep. It is this sense of community that I am most proud of when I talk about Hinckley and Bosworth.
I spend a lot of time meeting people in our community, whether that is in village halls, school playgrounds, farms or local businesses. People want their community to thrive, and they want to feel supported while doing their bit.
Our farmers are a good example of this. They are facing a perfect storm of policy changes and increasingly difficult weather, yet they continue to produce the food we rely on. I have been raising concerns around funding schemes and food security, and making the case for backing our food growers properly. Supporting farmers is not just about food security; it is about protecting our rural way of life.
Local businesses tell a similar story. Pubs, cafés, and restaurants in particular are feeling the pressure, and many owners have been honest with me about how tough things are right now. I meet regularly with business owners to hear about their concerns and, in turn, reflect them back to Parliament. I know times are tough for many people across our community, but please do support these local businesses where you can. January is a difficult time of the year in the hospitality sector, and your support means so much to them.
One of the real joys of being your MP is being able to champion the brilliant things happening across our community. From Apple Day in Donisthorpe, to celebrating 70 years of Scouts in Newbold Verdon, to cheering on children at the Battling Brook Primary School colour run, I am constantly reminded just how much effort volunteers, parents and organisers put in behind the scenes.
Sport plays a big part in community life too. That is why helping to secure £120,000 for a new 3G pitch at Hinckley Rugby Football Club mattered so much to me. Good facilities keep people active, bring generations together, and give young people a positive focus. You will often hear me say "a community that plays together, stays together", and I believe it. I continue to support local clubs with grant applications, and I am determined to bring in more funding where I can.
As you may know, a lot of the work I do is shaped by my experience as a GP. I saw firsthand the impact that social media and digitally manipulated advertising can have on people’s confidence and mental health. That is why I pushed for commitments from well-known brands, such as M&S, Boots, John Lewis and Boohoo Group, to stop digitally editing body proportions in their adverts. It is a small step, but one that sends an important message, especially to young people.
Alongside this, I have been focused on bringing investment into our area. From £19.9 million for a Global Conservation Centre at Twycross Zoo - now under construction, to funding for solar panels at Green Towers Youth Club, these projects help shape a strong future for our area while supporting local jobs and services.
As ever, updates on my work can be found on my website: www.drlukeevans.org.uk, or on social media by searching ‘Dr Luke Evans MP’. And if there’s anything I can help you with, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at [email protected].
Most importantly, I hope everyone across our community enjoyed the Holidays and that the new year brings you and your loved ones good health, prosperity and happiness.
