A view from Wrexham’s Member of Parliament

Wrexham.com has invited Wrexham & Clwyd South Members of Parliament and Assembly Members to write a monthly article with updates on their work in their respective Parliaments and closer to home – you can find them all here.

Today, Wrexham’s MP Sarah Atherton writes…

The coronavirus outbreak has taught us a lot about ourselves; our ability as individuals to adapt to fast-changing environments where work, family and social lives are thrown out of balance; the strength of our community; and, our resilience as a nation.

As your MP I have been humbled to see some of these extraordinary efforts in Wrexham. From volunteers producing face visors using 3D printers, to the hard work and dedication of our key workers, our communities’ response to this pandemic has been truly heart-warming. I’d like to take this opportunity, to once again, thank all of our key workers, volunteers, and individuals who have listened to the Government’s advice, and for the role they have played during these unprecedented times.

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As we enter the next phase of this crisis, as lockdown measures are slowly and gradually lifted, it is important that we continue to listen to expert advice. Whilst the next stage will be challenging, the UK Government has announced further support to protect jobs, businesses and the economy. From extending the Self Employment Support Scheme for three months, to the introduction of flexible furlough, making it easier for furloughed workers to return part time.
Further, I’m pleased that the Welsh Government have listened to calls to reopen the Economic Resilience fund, providing support for many businesses across Wrexham.

I thank the @WelshGovernment for listening to mine and colleagues concerns and for their decision to reopen the Economic Resilience Fund, a decision that I’m sure many #Wrexham businesses will be delighted to hear. pic.twitter.com/y4a59QQiG7

— Sarah Atherton MP (@AthertonNWales) May 22, 2020

The effect of coronavirus on family finances cannot be underestimated, that is why I’m pleased that the Government has taken the necessary steps to support hardworking families, with a three-month extension of the mortgage payment holiday.

This remains one of the most comprehensive and generous packages of support anywhere in the world.

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Much of my work now takes place virtually, from voting to meeting with constituents and colleagues about local issues. Despite my office closure, I continue to hold advice surgeries via skype, helping constituents on a wide variety of issues.

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I continue to work closely with my colleagues to represent North Wales and Wrexham, holding the Welsh Government to account, ensuring that North Wales is not left behind in our fight against coronavirus.

I’m pleased that the Welsh Government have now reconsidered their decision and will start testing some residents in care homes. However, this must go further – we must test all residents to get a true picture of the extent of the the virus in this environment https://t.co/GV51dii8G8

— Sarah Atherton MP (@AthertonNWales) May 5, 2020

I recently took part in ‘Campaign Forces’ zoom evening, encouraging others from the Armed Forces’ community to run for public office, a cause which is close to my heart.

Our 8th session inspiring our armed forces community to ‘stand up and serve again!’ Thanks @AthertonNWales for an inspiring insight into your journey. Honest, real and authentic #StandUpServeAgain https://t.co/UbG9GLfvgo

— CampaignForce CIC (@campaignforceuk) May 27, 2020

With that in mind, as part of my role on the Defence Select Committee, we have launched an inquiry into the Armed Forces’ contribution to the ongoing efforts in tackling this pandemic.

Together we will beat coronavirus, but in order to ensure that our sacrifices are not in vain, we must continue to follow the Welsh Government’s advice as we slowly and gradually emerge from lockdown measures. It is vital that we all stay alert.

Although my office is closed until further notice, my team and I continue to work to help Wrexham residents. If there is anything I can do to help, please don’t hesitate to contact me:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 020 7219 4885 | 01978 291742
Post: House of Commons, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA

Wrexham.com has invited Wrexham & Clwyd South Welsh and UK Parliament representatives to write a monthly article with updates on their work and closer to home – you can find them all here.