Newsletter November 2025

Welcome to my Newsletter for November 2025

Labour Backs British Veterans

New Support Centres for Veterans

The UK Labour government is rolling out a new network of Veterans Support Centres, and that’s good news for the 3,380 veterans across Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare.

Backed by £50 million, these centres will offer help with housing, healthcare, employment, and mental health, making it easier for ex-service personnel to access the support they deserve, close to home.

A Historic Boost for Armed Forces Families in Wales

Families serving in our Armed Forces deserve safe, modern homes, and thanks to the UK Labour government’s new Defence Housing Strategy, that’s exactly what’s coming.

Over 800 military homes in Wales are set to be rebuilt or refurbished as part of the biggest upgrade to Forces accommodation in more than 50 years. Backed by £9 billion, this investment will deliver:

•  A new Defence Housing Service to improve standards and responsiveness
•  Support for homeownership, helping families put down roots
•  Long-overdue repairs and modernisation to homes across Wales

This is about putting Forces families first, recognising their service, and finally fixing decades of underinvestment. It’s a proud moment for Wales and a clear sign of Labour’s commitment to those who serve.

Merthyr Tydfil at the Heart of UK Defence

It was a pleasure to join Minister Luke Pollard at General Dynamics UK in Merthyr Tydfil to mark a major milestone for the Ajax programme, reaching Initial Operating Capability.

With Ajax vehicles being built right here in our community, this programme is supporting thousands of skilled jobs and helping drive our local economy forward. It’s a proud moment for Merthyr Tydfil and a testament to the talent and dedication of the workforce.

I also had the chance to catch up with Unite Wales union reps on site. Unions play a vital role in protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that investment like this delivers real, lasting benefits for the people who make it happen

Tackling Off-Road Biking Together

I recently brought together South Wales Police inspectors, council officers, local councillors, and housing associations for a roundtable meeting to discuss the ongoing issue of off-road biking.

It was encouraging to hear about the work already underway across Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf, and to look at what progress can be made going forward.

Celebrating Dydd Shwmae at Aberdare Community School

It was a pleasure to join the Shwmae Day Coffee Morning at Aberdare Community School. A lovely chance to enjoy a cuppa, connect with staff and Welsh learners, and soak up the spirit of the day.

I even picked up a few new Welsh words along the way! Diolch to everyone who made it such a welcoming event.

£50,000 Boost for Youth Skills Programme

I was pleased to join Dowlais Community Centre, run by the Stephens & George Charitable Trust, as they received a generous £50,000 donation from the Persimmon Homes Charitable Foundation to support their alternative education programme.

This funding will help 100 young people gain hands-on skills in printing, construction, catering, forest school, gaming, and more, opening up new opportunities and pathways.

It was great to see Tyler Earp and Andrew Millar accepting the cheque as project ambassadors, and huge thanks to Helen Hughes for her dedication to this vital work. Well done all!

Supporting Operation Bang with South Wales Police

Halloween and Bonfire Night are some of the busiest times of year for our emergency services. I joined South Wales Police teams to see first-hand the incredible work they’re doing as part of Operation Bang.

From community patrols to rapid response, their efforts to keep people safe and prevent anti-social behaviour are nothing short of extraordinary. A heartfelt thank you to all our emergency services for everything they do, not just during busy weekends, but all year round.

Honouring Our Fallen

It was an honour to attend Acts of Remembrance in Dowlais, Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil, and Aberfan, paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Each service was a moving reminder of the courage and selflessness of our Armed Forces, past and present. In Aberfan, I was joined by Councillor Scott Thomas and the 415 Merthyr Tydfil Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets, whose band added a beautiful and poignant note to the march.

We will remember them.

A Burst of Colour in Dowlais

It was a real pleasure to attend the 74th Annual Late Show of the Dowlais and District Chrysanthemum Society, a spectacular celebration of colour, care, and community.

Hosted once again at the Dowlais Community Centre, run by the Stephens & George Charitable Trust, the event brought together growers, neighbours, and flower lovers from across the area. It was lovely to catch up with Phil and Rosalind Little, and with the Mayor of Merthyr Tydfil, Cllr Paula Layton.

Congratulations to all the winners, and well done to everyone who took part.

Supporting Our 50+ Community Event

It was fantastic to bring together a wide range of organisations under one roof to offer advice, support, and practical resources for our 50+ community.

Held at Oasis Community Church, the event was a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, including the Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf, Cllr Sheryl Evans and Cllr Gareth Jones, and meet new ones, all in a welcoming and informative setting. The Don’t Fall For It test added a fun and thought-provoking moment, helping people better understand their personal risk of falling in the future.

A huge thank you to Oasis for hosting us so generously, and to all the teams who gave their time and expertise to make the day such a success.

Recent Visits to Parliament

It’s always a pleasure to welcome residents to Westminster and recently, Ali and Carwyn, Vanessa and Steve enjoyed a packed visit that included a fascinating tour of UK Parliament and the chance to experience Prime Minister’s Questions in person.

Ali and Carwyn also caught up with Nick Smith MP and Carolyn Harris MP, gaining insight into how our democracy works day to day. Visits like these help bring politics off the page and into real life, and I’m always proud to support them.

Community Engagement Award – Afon Taf High School

I was proud to present my Community Engagement Award to Theo Addis, Donte Davies, and Tyler Bailey of Afon Taf High School, three young men who showed outstanding kindness and responsibility on their way to school.

When they saw an elderly gentleman in need, they didn’t hesitate. They called an ambulance, stayed with him until help arrived, and made sure both the school and the gentleman’s family were informed and supported.

Their quick thinking and calm actions ensured the gentleman received help swiftly and safely. Brilliant job boys!

Community Engagement Award – Cyfarthfa High School

Another fantastic award presented this month!

Delighted to present my Community Engagement Award to Isabelle Dockerty of Cyfarthfa High School, for her incredible work alongside her mother to support families in Merthyr Tydfil who have children with a diagnosis of autism.

Her commitment reflects incredible empathy and a genuine desire to help others, qualities that truly make her deserving of this award and the recognition it brings. Well done Isabelle!

Cyfarthfa Castle Celebrates 200 Years in Royal Style

It was a real honour to attend the 200th anniversary celebrations at Cyfarthfa Castle, joined by His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla on the King’s birthday, a truly historic moment for Merthyr Tydfil.

Huge congratulations to the dedicated staff who organised such an exceptional event, with special guests Ruth Jones, Steve Speirs, and Julien Macdonald adding to the occasion. It was also lovely to catch up with Cllr Brent Carter, Leader of Merthyr Tydfil CBC, the Mayor Cllr Paula Layton, and Dawn Bowden MS.

The Dowlais Male Choir added a wonderful musical touch, and the showstopping cake, designed as the castle itself by Emma Jayne Cake Design was truly stunning.

A proud day for Merthyr Tydfil, and a fitting tribute to one of our most iconic landmarks.

Out and About in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare and Other Events 

• Merthyr Tydfil Borough Credit Union Limited for Credit Union Day.
• Merthyr Tydfil Neuro Café at Town Centre Hub Merthyr Tydfil.
• Supporting the Royal British Legion at Tesco.
• Proud to Show Racism the Red Card alongside Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare Labour Party.
• Met with Luke Pollard, Defence Minister for Readiness and Industry, to talk defence investment and what it means for Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare.
• Street Surgery in Hirwaun.
• Campaign session in Troedyrhiw with Plymouth Ward Councillors and Cllr Gillian Preston – Bedlinog and Trelewis.
• Placed a cross of remembrance in the Speaker’s Garden at the House of Commons.

Advice Surgeries

As well as my work in Parliament, my team and I are available to help constituents all year round, with a range of issues, including for example benefit entitlements, HMRC issues, housing, Home Office, and passport issues.

I hold regular advice surgeries across the constituency. These are an opportunity for residents in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare to come and chat with me about issues I feel I could offer advice and assistance.

To discuss specific issues, and to book an appointment, please call my team on 01685 383 739 or email [email protected].