As 2022 draws to a close I want to take a moment to reflect on the past twelve months.
This is the first time in three years that friends, and families have been able to spend time together during the festive season without covid restrictions in place. Since the beginning of the vaccination programme in December 2021, more than 400,000 COVID vaccinations have been administered in North Hampshire. An incredible effort and a testament to the dedication of our fantastic local NHS team and an army of volunteers. But this was only possible because people throughout Basingstoke came forward to get vaccinated and boosted, reducing the risk of getting seriously unwell from the virus. You can still book via the online system: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/...
Over ten months have now passed since Putin's illegal invasion of Ukraine. Many Basingstoke residents have selflessly volunteered to share their home with Ukrainian people fleeing war. Both Borough and County Council with BVA have established a network of partners, helping to coordinate our support locally. You can find more information at https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/Ukraine
This year will forever be remembered for the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, still so keenly felt by many. The late Queen had been a constant in our lives for more than 70 years, our "rock" throughout a reign of extraordinary change, a constant presence throughout. Her late Majesty was an inspiration to us all, selflessly dedicating her whole life to public duty. I joined the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Cllr Paul Miller at the local proclamation of the His Majesty King Charles III, an event of very mixed emotions, amongst days that none of us will ever forget.
I know this is a difficult and worrying time for a lot of people as the rising cost-of-living puts pressure on people’s incomes, a concern for many people in Basingstoke. The Government has recognised the need to take active steps to alleviate pressures – these include grants, cash rebates, and one-off payments for individuals, as well as more funding for local authorities. More information on the help that is available at: https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support
Looking ahead to 2023, I will continue to work on the things that really matter here locally in Basingstoke: making sure our local services meet the need of our community especially our NHS, protecting our local environment, stamping out crime, slowing down house building rates which have been some of the highest in the country for more than 50 years. And nationally I will continue the work that I do to help make Britain a fair place for everyone.
I have the privilege to live in, work in and represent one of the most successful towns in the country. I will continue to do all I can, working with others, to help ensure every resident has the support they need from local public services, regardless of their background, gender, disability, sexuality, or ethnicity to help make this town even more successful in the future.
Best wishes and a happy new year.
Maria
