5 minute read
Ben Wallace MP
CAT SMITH MP (cont)
imperative that we all limit our interactions in the workplace, wear face coverings in settings where the virus finds it easiest to spread and take lateral flow tests before we attend large indoor gatherings. The goal in the end must be to learn to live with the virus. That means effective vaccination, anti-viral treatments and public health measures that have a minimal impact on our lives, our jobs and our businesses. Before Christmas I unfortunately had to cancel some visits, including my favourite kind – popping into our nursing and retirement homes. I’m really sorry the health concerns were such that it was too much of a risk to call in. I hope it won’t be long before I get a chance to see you all. These are challenging times to be wishing you a happy 2022 but above all I wish you a new year that is full of hope and happiness. If there’s anything I can help you with in the coming year then email me or call my office.
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Cat Smith MP t: 01253 490440 cat.smith.mp@parliament.uk
BEN WALLACE MP
I hope you all had a great break over the Christmas period. I have enjoyed spending time with my family and have re-charged my batteries. I believe that one of the positives that has come from the Covid situation is the fact that we all appreciate much more the time spent with friends and family.
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BEN WALLACE MP (cont)
Judging from correspondence from constituents, we also appreciate our outstanding emergency services and armed forces more than we normally would. NHS workers deserve to be highlighted as they continue to do everything possible to combat the Covid pandemic. As I stated in my last article, winter brings many challenges for the NHS and I want to thank all NHS staff for their dedication and professionalism during the continuing difficult situation we find ourselves in. As always, to keep up to date with the latest advice, please go to the government’s website: www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-
coronavirus-restrictions-what-you-canand-cannot-do
I am delighted to be travelling around the constituency and have recently visited Garstang Community Academy. It was great to be shown around the school by the headteacher, Mr Ashcroft, the deputy headteacher, Ms Royds and a particular pleasure to meet pupils including the school’s head girl and head boy, who were great ambassadors for the school. While it was sometimes difficult for me to get out and about in the community during the current pandemic, it is vital that I do travel throughout the constituency whenever safe and possible. It is also an extremely enjoyable aspect of my role. With winter truly upon us, some can struggle during extreme conditions. Whether it is travelling or keeping warm in their own homes. For advice and guidance please go to www.lancashire.gov.uk/winter or www.
metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-andadvice/seasonal-advice/travel/winter-carkit
Some constituents have experienced long waiting times from the DVLA. As a result I have written to them and received the following reply: ‘
BEN WALLACE MP (cont)
We have been working with a significantly reduced number of staff on site to ensure social distancing and we are experiencing significantly increased demand for our services. Previous industrial action has also led to delays and difficulties contacting us by telephone. To help mitigate the impact of delays, digital service enhancements are underway, and we have reconfigured our accommodation to safely maximise the number of staff on site. Additional staff are being recruited and we have secured extra office space in Swansea and Birmingham to house more staff. This will be surge capacity accommodation and resourced to help reduce backlogs while providing future resilience and business continuity.’ My advice is to ensure applications for licences etc are submitted in plenty of time.
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The government is committed to the Covid booster vaccine dose: it helps give longerterm protection against getting seriously ill from the virus. With this in mind, you can now receive your booster at Wyre’s mobile vaccine clinics. These are available to anyone 18 or over that had their second vaccine three months prior. There are warnings that there could be considerable queues at the clinics so please be prepared. It is incredibly important to get the booster vaccine. Please remember anyone of eligible age can drop in to get a first, second or booster dose with no appointment needed. Dates for upcoming clinics are:
• Cleveleys Community Centre,
Kensington Road: Thurs 6th, Thurs 13th, Thurs 20th and Thurs 27th Jan • Marine Hall, Fleetwood: Wed 12th,
Wed 19th and Wed 26th Jan, 1:00pm - 7:00pm • The Leisure Centre (sports hall),
Windsor Road, Garstang: Sat 8th and
Sat 15th Jan, 10:00am - 4:00pm Keeping in Touch
Despite the challenging times, I wish all constituents a happy and healthy 2022. Happy New Year! Please remember I’m here to help. The most effective way to contact me is by email with a brief description of the issues you wish to raise, along with your contact details (including home address). You can also ring my office or write to me at the House of Commons.
