Stephen marks Brew Monday campaign

Credit: Samaritans

Stephen has marked “Brew Monday” in the House of Commons. Brew Monday—held this year on 19 January—is led by Samaritans to challenge the myth of “Blue Monday” and encourage people to connect with one another over a cuppa and a conversation.

Samaritans, the UK and Ireland’s largest suicide‑prevention charity, answers a call for help every 10 seconds, supported by more than 23,000 volunteers across over 200 branches. Their latest briefing highlights key national priorities to prevent suicide, and Sir Stephen is supporting their calls for urgent action.

Samaritans is urging the Government to ensure all police, ambulance, and fire and rescue staff receive mandatory suicide‑prevention training. Evidence shows such training significantly improves confidence and knowledge when responding to people in crisis.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen saidi “Suicide is preventable, not inevitable. The Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign reminds us all of the power of a simple conversation, but it also highlights the urgent need for stronger action across government. We must ensure emergency responders are properly trained, online spaces are safe, and national strategies deliver the impact we need.

“I fully support Samaritans’ call for clearer progress reporting and greater cross‑departmental effort to save lives.”

East Ham teachers to receive SEND training

CDC via Unsplash, @cdc

More children and young people in East Ham will receive the right support at an earlier stage, with expanded training for staff on SEND and inclusion.

Many teachers report that additional training would increase their confidence in supporting pupils with SEND. In response to this, a new national offer of training is being developed to strengthen expertise across all education settings. The programme will be backed by £200 million and will be available to all teaching staff. It aims to deepen understanding of how to adapt teaching for a variety of needs, including visual impairments and speech and language needs.

The training will cover approaches known to improve access to education, such as the use of assistive technology – including speech-to-text tools – and strategies that help raise awareness of additional needs among all pupils. The intention is to support every child to succeed.

This work will be underpinned by an updated expectation in the SEND Code of Practice, confirming that all staff in nurseries, schools and colleges should receive training on SEND and inclusion. This will ensure that teachers in East Ham, and across the country, benefit from consistent and comprehensive professional development.

Speaking about the new investment, Stephen said, said: “SEND remains a major issue for many families in East Ham, as I hear regularly through my casework and in discussions locally. There is broad agreement that improvements are needed.

“By developing specialist places and equipping teachers with enhanced training, the aim is to ensure that needs are identified earlier, support is provided more quickly, and parents do not have to struggle to secure the help their child requires.

“It is vital that the voices of families, experts and frontline staff continue to shape these improvements, so that every child has the chance to achieve and thrive.”

Stephen: Step-free access at Upton Park would made "a huge difference"

Stephen has welcomed news that Plaistow and Upton Park Underground stations have been shortlisted by Transport for London (TfL) for feasibility studies into step-free access.

The studies will assess whether step-free access can be delivered at the two stations, which currently present challenges for disabled passengers, older residents, and people travelling with buggies or luggage. Being shortlisted does not confirm funding or delivery, and TfL has advised that any future schemes would need to demonstrate technical feasibility and secure funding.

Speaking after the announcement, Stephen said: “Improving accessibility at local stations is vital for many residents in East Ham. Step-free access would make a huge difference for people with mobility difficulties, parents with young children, and others who rely on public transport every day. I am pleased that TfL is looking seriously at Plaistow and Upton Park, and I will continue to press for these improvements to be delivered.”

Stephen has strongly supported improved accessibility, including writing to TfL last summer to make the case for step-free access at Upton Park. In their reply. TfL confirmed that some early feasibility work was undertaken in 2017 and will inform the current assessments. Stephen later added: “I will work closely with Newham Council, TfL, and other stakeholders to ensure the case for step-free access is as strong as possible. Accessible transport is essential for an inclusive community, and I will keep constituents updated as this work progresses.”

Stephen welcomes stronger parental leave rights

Stephen has welcomed that millions of workers across the UK are set to benefit from changes to employment law that strengthen parental leave rights and provide greater security at work.

From April, new measures will ensure that parents are entitled to key parental leave rights from the first day of a new job, extending access to time off during the early stages of a child’s life. Bereaved partners will also gain expanded access to paternity leave.

The changes are designed to improve job security, support working families, and help raise living standards by making employment more flexible and sustainable, particularly for those with caring responsibilities.

Many workers have previously been unable to take time off following the birth of a child because of eligibility restrictions or concerns about job security. The new day-one rights aim to remove this barrier, allowing parents to take parental leave without fear of losing their job.

The reforms are expected to increase take-up of paternity leave, with tens of thousands more fathers able to access leave immediately following the birth of their child. Parents will also be able to take unpaid parental leave from the start of a new role, giving families greater flexibility to share caring responsibilities.

The changes come alongside a wider review of parental leave and pay arrangements, examining how maternity, paternity and shared parental leave can be improved for both parents and employers.

Around 390,000 people are currently out of work due to caring responsibilities but would like to be employed. By improving access to parental leave and flexibility at work, the reforms aim to support more parents into work and strengthen the wider economy. Even a small increase in workforce participation could deliver a significant boost to economic output each year.

Commenting on the changes, Stephen said: “Across East Ham, many parents have spoken to me about the importance of being able to spend time with their children in those crucial early months without added financial pressure.

“Stronger parental leave rights will help families in our area feel more secure, support children’s early development, and contribute to healthier, more resilient communities.”

Stephen welcomes new Child Poverty Strategy

Stephen has welcomed a new national Child Poverty Strategy which aims to lift 550,000 children out of poverty. It delivers the largest reduction in child poverty in one Parliament since records began.

6,870 children in East Hamre expected to benefit from changes including the removal of the two-child limit. In addition, working families will receive extra support with childcare costs, stronger workplace rights, and an increase in the minimum wage to ensure work pays.

The strategy addresses poverty at its roots by reducing the cost of essentials, boosting family incomes, and improving local services so every child has the best start in life. Research shows that children growing up in poverty often do less well in school, face higher unemployment risks, and earn less throughout their lifetimes. Tackling this issue is vital for improving life chances and strengthening communities.

Ministers in the DWP have also announced measures to support working parents and families seeking to return to work. From next year, parents receiving Universal Credit will be eligible for upfront childcare costs when returning from parental leave, helping prevent debt and enabling quicker access to employment.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “I’ve seen the devastating impact that years of deepening child poverty has had on families in East Ham and know that today’s strategy putting money back in their pockets, food on the table and warm homes will transform the lives and life chances of our children.

“By cutting the cost of energy bills, tackling unstable temporary accommodation and ending the two child limit over 6,500 children in our community will be lifted out of poverty.”

Stephen encourages East Ham families to take part in SEND consultation

Parents and carers in East Ham are being invited to help shape the future of the SEND system through a nationwide engagement campaign. The initiative aims to gather views from families, schools, and professionals to ensure reforms reflect real experiences and deliver lasting improvements.

The campaign includes nine face-to-face events hosted in partnership with the Council for Disabled Children, alongside five online sessions exploring key principles of reform. Together, these will provide thousands of opportunities for families and practitioners to share feedback and ideas.

Discussions will focus on improving early intervention so children receive support earlier in life when it can have the greatest impact. They will also look at strengthening local provision so young people can learn close to home, alongside their peers, while ensuring specialist support for complex needs. Other priorities include making the system fairer by ensuring schools have the resources to meet changing needs and that families have clear legal safeguards. Evidence-based practice and shared working between education, health, care services, local authorities, families, and experts will also be central themes.

Participants will have the chance to comment on proposals such as written records of support for children, access to independent advocacy for families, and a national framework for SEND provision across all settings.

Speaking about the consultation, Stephen said: “I know from speaking to parents, carers, and schools in East Ham that support for children with SEND is a top priority. This engagement campaign is an important opportunity for families and professionals to help shape improvements that will make a real difference.”

The campaign builds on previous listening sessions with families and will inform proposals for reform set out in the upcoming Schools White Paper. A formal consultation will follow to continue the conversation. Experts including Tom Rees and Dame Christine Lenehan will support the work, bringing years of experience in inclusive practices to discussions with parents and professionals.

Stephen accepts recommendations on review into Carers Allowance

Stephen has announced that Ministers will be accepting the key recommendations of Sayce review on Carer’s Allowance.

Unpaid carers will now have their Carer's Allowance overpayments reviewed and potentially cancelled or repaid, following an independent review that found unclear guidance left people facing unexpected debts.

The independent Sayce Review, launched in October last year, found unclear guidance on averaging fluctuating earnings prevented carers from understanding what changes to their pay needed reporting to the Department for Work and Pensions. This meant thousands of people juggling 35 hours of care with paid work built up debts without realising they had breached the weekly earnings limit.

The DWP has accepted that unpaid carers were let down by confusing rules - in place between 2015 and summer 2025 - and this government is now moving to fix these inherited problems. Where it is found that overpayments were lower than originally calculated, carers will have their debts reduced or cancelled entirely, with the Government refunding any money already repaid.

Speaking about her review, Liz Sayce said: “My review found that overpayment debt has had major impacts on carers' health, finances and family well-being, and been a disincentive to work. I'm glad Government now plans to review cases and cancel or reduce debts affected by flawed guidance.”

Stephen, who is Minister for Social Security and Disability, added: “Carers deserve a benefit that reflects their vital contribution to society but, we inherited problems with Carer’s Allowance which we’re determined to fix. Every day, they provide care and support that enables their loved ones to live with dignity – and we owe them a system that works properly.

“I want to reassure carers that this issue doesn’t affect many cases. But where it’s gone wrong, we’ll put it right.

“The Government recognises the vital role carers play supporting the people they care for, their communities and the country, and is committed to making their lives easier.”

Stephen supports treatment for Huntington’s disease

Stephen has supported the Huntington’s Disease Association in Parliament to call for action to secure swift access for people with Huntington’s in East Ham to any future treatment for the disease.

The Huntington’s Disease Association Parliamentary Reception saw parliamentarians join people living with the disease, as well as family members and carers, to urge the government, the NHS and regulators to ensure that any future treatment for Huntington’s reaches patients as soon as possible.

Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative condition that gradually affects movement, cognition and mental health. Every child of a parent with the faulty gene has a 50% chance of inheriting it. For many families, that means living with the daily reality of caring for loved ones while knowing they may face the same future.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “I’m pleased to be a Huntington’s Disease Champion and stand up for my constituents living with and affected by this rare, neurodegenerative condition.

“The recent news of a potential treatment for Huntington’s disease, which slowed its progression by around 75% in participants, was incredibly encouraging. We know that there are considerable challenges to getting treatments to patients, and I’m urging everyone – government, NHS and regulators – to work together to ensure people with Huntington’s can have access to this and any other new treatment.”

Stephen supports leading sight loss charity

Stephen has attended a parliamentary drop-in event organised by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) in the House of Commons. He backed the charity’s call for an end to unacceptable wait times for essential support after people are diagnosed with a sight condition.

At the event, Stephen met blind and partially sighted people, professional Vision Rehabilitation Specialists, and RNIB staff and ambassadors to find out about the difference that timely access to local authority support - known as vision rehabilitation, can make, and learn more about this vital but often overlooked part of social care that enables blind and partially sighted people to live safely and independently after sight loss.

New research by RNIB shows that the vision rehabilitation support provided by local authorities including essential white-cane training, cooking and technology skills, has become an under-funded Cinderella social care service across England.

RNIB’s recent Freedom of Information report shows that across England, 20 per cent of local authorities (17 authorities) had people waiting over a year to receive just an initial assessment of the services they need; 85 per cent of local authorities did not complete vision rehabilitation assessments within the RNIB-recommended 28 days and 38 local authorities told us assessments are not always conducted by qualified Vision Rehabilitation Specialists.

At the drop in, MPs had the chance to try out some of the tools and adaptations blind and partially sighted people use to navigate the home, workplace and outdoors, hear directly from people whose lives have been transformed by vision rehabilitation, meet the specialists who deliver these services and find out what they can do to speed up access to support.

Stephen is now encouraging people to sign RNIB’s petition, calling on the Health Secretary to ensure vision rehabilitation is effectively and consistently delivered for people with sight loss.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “Meeting blind and partially sighted people who have benefitted from vision rehabilitation made it crystal clear to me that this service is vital in supporting my constituents with sight loss to thrive and regain independence, whether that be navigating public transport, cooking a meal, or returning to the workplace.”

Stephen welcomes new Co-Chairs for PIP review

Stephen has welcomed the appointment of two co-chairs for the first ever full review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). It is being followed by the launch of a recruitment process for its wider steering group.

Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE and Sharon Brennan have been appointed as co-chairs of the Timms Review, alongside the Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms. Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE brings more than 25 years’ experience as a national advocate for disability rights, co-production and social justice. He is Associate Director at Think Local Act Personal, a Trustee of Disability Rights UK, and National Development Team for Inclusion. Sharon Brennan brings expertise from previous roles including as Director of Policy and External Affairs at National Voices, a coalition of health and care charities, and advising the Department for Transport on accessibility as a member of the Disabled Person’s Transport Advisory Committee.

Since PIP was introduced over a decade ago, there have been shifting trends in long-term health conditions and disability, plus changes in wider society and the workplace. Close to 10 million working age people are disabled, and this number has grown by nearly 3 million since 2013/14. There have been greater increases in the prevalence of disability among young people and a rise in mental health conditions.

However, despite these shifts, PIP has never been fully reviewed until now. The aim of this review is to make sure PIP fairly reflects the reality of the impact of people’s conditions in the modern world, as well as considering the needs of disabled people more widely. It will look at the role of PIP in enabling disabled people to live independently and fully participate in society, as well as the role of the assessment in unlocking wider support.

Speaking about the Review, Stephen said: "We’re ensuring disabled people and those with long-term health conditions can access the same opportunities, choices, and chances as everyone else. “That’s why we’re putting them at the heart of the first ever full review of PIP – making sure it is fair and fit for the future.

“I’m delighted to welcome Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE and Sharon Brennan as the Review’s co-chairs and encourage people with lived experience to apply to be part of this important work.”

Stephen welcomes new report on school readiness

Agence Olloweb | @olloweb via Unsplash

 Stephen has welcomed a new report from the Institute for Government (IfG) which shows that boys eligible for free school meals in Newham are among the most likely in the country to be ‘school ready’ by age five.

One of the Government’s key missions is to Break Down Barriers to Opportunity, aiming to close the gap between a child’s background and their future success. The benchmark for this mission is for 75% of children to be ‘school ready’ by the time they start school.

The IfG research reveals that Newham is leading the way in supporting disadvantaged children, with 57.7% of FSM eligible boys being school ready by age 5. Boys from low-income families who qualify for free school meals often fall behind their peers in early education. However, over the past three years, Newham has achieved the best results nationally in preparing these boys for school.

Speaking about the report, Stephen “This new Institute for Government research is encouraging. We know Newham’s early years provision is among the best in the country.  I believe young children in Newham also benefit from our very supportive community.  This is a heartening example of excellent progress in the borough.”

The Institute for Government is now conducting further research to understand what is driving this success in Newham.

Stephen applauds new partnership to support Indian students in the UK

Stephen has welcomed a landmark agreement between the University of East London (UEL) and the National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU), describing it as a “blueprint for inclusive and globally minded education.”

Stephen joined guests at UEL’s Stratford Campus to witness the signing of a sector-first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UEL and NISAU. The agreement establishes a strategic framework to enhance the welfare, employability, and success of Indian students in the UK, from pre-arrival through to post-graduation.

The MoU was signed by Professor Amanda Broderick, UEL Vice-Chancellor and President, and Sanam Arora, Chairperson of NISAU. Also in attendance were Lord Patel of Bradford OBE and Virendra Sharma, the former MP of Ealing Southall and Patron of NISAU.

Speaking at the launch, Stephen said: “This partnership is a powerful example of how our universities can lead the way in fostering international collaboration and student success. Indian students contribute enormously to our communities, and it is vital that we continue to support their journey in the UK with compassion, opportunity, and innovation.”

Stephen secures funding injection to tackle homelessness in East Ham

Jon Tyson | via Unsplash @jontyson

Stephen has secured a major funding injection to tackle homelessness and rough-sleeping in East Ham.

Thousands of people facing homelessness will be supported by a new £84 million cash injection to councils up and down the country ahead of winter, with East Ham set to benefit.

Children and families in temporary accommodation in East Ham will be prioritised – with the funding to go towards helping families to cover the essentials like food, school travel and laundry. The new funding will support children to remain in education.

The investment provides tailored services for those experiencing long-term rough sleeping – including mental health support, drug and alcohol treatment and sustainable accommodation – ensuring people get the help they need to rebuild their lives.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “This funding is very welcome, especially as winter approaches. We know from previous projects that that targeted support can make a big difference and help people take their first steps out of homelessness.”

Stephen tries world-first breath test for pancreatic cancer

Stephen has tried a new breath test for pancreatic cancer that could help save thousands of lives in the future - simply from people with suspicious symptoms blowing into a breathalyser-type device at their GP surgery.

Stephen met scientists from Imperial College London, who are developing the innovative technology, at a Labour Party Conference stall hosted by Pancreatic Cancer UK. The charity has invested £650,000 into the research study to help put what it hopes will be the first-ever early detection test for the disease into the hands of doctors.

Unlike many other cancers, no early detection tests for pancreatic cancer currently exist to help doctors determine who should be urgently referred to hospital for a scan. Yet 91 per cent of people with the disease see their GP with symptoms two years before diagnosis. The breath test could help save thousands of lives by helping to identify more people with the disease at early stage. To date, survival rates have barely improved in 50 years.

Stephen heard how the breath test, which is designed to be accurate, non-invasive, and usable in a GP surgery, could have a significant impact while remaining affordable for the NHS. Most importantly they learned about its potential to give many more people the chance of lifesaving or life-extending treatment. Currently just 10 per cent of people with the disease are diagnosed in time for surgery, the only potentially curative treatment.

The Pancreatic Cancer UK stand at the Labour Party Conference featured stories of families from across the UK who have lost loved ones to the disease. Around 10,500 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year. However, almost 60 per cent of people are currently diagnosed via an emergency (such as through visiting A&E), the highest proportion of any common cancer. One-year survival for patients diagnosed through a GP referral is three times higher.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “This devastating disease is a silent killer. After learning about the stories of people affected by pancreatic cancer from right across the UK, I can well understand the anger and injustice so many families feel about the lack of progress.

“Advances in technology, like the breath test, could be game-changing. It’s incredibly important that we continue to support innovative projects like this, alongside investing in further research focused on pancreatic cancer. This disease poses unique challenges, but the significant improvements made in other types of cancer are proof of what’s possible.”

Stephen visits UEL's Legal Advice Centre

Stephen has visited the Legal Advice Centre (LAC) at UEL’s Royal Docks School of Business and Law, University Square Stratford campus.

Nurun Choudhury studied at UEL and volunteered for the LAC before receiving a training contract from UEL and qualifying as a solicitor in March 2024. Nurun, who is now a Lecturer in Law and Policing and Lead and Supervising Solicitor at the UEL LAC, said, “We are deeply grateful to Sir Stephen Timms MP for visiting the UEL Legal Advice Centre and for his unwavering support over the past decade. It was a pleasure to welcome him to the Royal Docks School of Business and Law again.

“We especially thank him for the valuable work opportunities he continues to offer our law students at the LAC, which play a vital role in their development and confidence. His continued collaboration has been instrumental for our students and strengthening our community outreach. We look forward to many more years of working together in service of access to justice."

Speaking after the visit, Stephen said: “I am delighted to visit the Legal Advice Centre at UEL and enjoyed meeting the dedicated team of staff, volunteers and students. The Centre plays a vital role in supporting our community by offering free legal advice to those who need it.”

“It is an exciting time for the Royal Docks School of Business and Law, which is celebrating 50 years of teaching law this year. The School has also been nominated for ‘Business School of the Year’ in the Times Higher Education Awards. I will keep my fingers crossed for the final announcement in November!”

Stephen celebrates 25 years of the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK

Stephen has welcomed the 25th anniversary of the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK, praising the organisation’s longstanding contribution to community cohesion, cultural preservation, and interfaith dialogue across Britain.

Founded in 1999, the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK has grown into a vital platform for British Hindus of Bangladeshi heritage, promoting social harmony and celebrating the rich traditions of Bengali Hindu culture. Its milestone anniversary was marked by a vibrant celebration attended by community leaders, cultural performers, and representatives from across the UK.

Stephen said: “The Bangladesh Hindu Association UK has played a vital role in strengthening community ties and promoting understanding across faiths and generations. I warmly congratulate them on 25 years of service and look forward to continuing our work together to support inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all.”

Stephen, who has long championed the rights of minority communities in Parliament, has regularly engaged with British Bangladeshi organisations and spoken out on issues affecting diaspora communities. His East Ham constituency is home to one of the UK’s largest Bangladeshi populations, and he has consistently supported initiatives that celebrate cultural heritage while tackling inequality and discrimination.

The anniversary event featured traditional music, dance, and reflections on the Association’s journey, with tributes paid to its founders and volunteers. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to youth engagement, elder support, and advocacy on issues affecting British Hindus.

Stephen highlights success of Faith Covenant

Stephen has praised the impact of the Faith Covenant in fostering collaboration between local authorities and faith communities, marking ten years since the initiative was launched.

Speaking at a Westminster event evaluating the Covenant’s success, Stephen, who is the former Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Faith and Society, said: “A lot of councils were pleasantly surprised by how positive their experience of working with faith groups turned out to be. If you wanted to work with willing volunteers, who were able to make an impact, had great premises and could reach into parts of the community that government often doesn't have much access to, then faith groups were the ideal partners.”

The Faith Covenant, first proposed by David Lammy MP and supported by the APPG on Faith and Society, provides a framework for local authorities and faith organisations to work together effectively. Its importance became particularly clear during the COVID-19 pandemic, when church-led food banks and community support services were in high demand.

Sir Stephen added: “There is increasingly, at the heart of government, an understanding of just how important this is. It’s not just that faith groups are happening to do useful things – it's the faith itself which is inspiring, equipping, and motivating people to make these very positive contributions in their communities.”

The government has recently launched a new ‘Civil Society Covenant’ to encourage collaboration with secular organisations, a move Sir Stephen believes was “likely inspired by” the success of the Faith Covenant.

Stephen visits Christians Against Poverty

Credit: Christians Against Poverty

Stephen has visited Christians Against Poverty’s (CAP) Central Support Hub in Bradford to hear directly from those affected by poverty and debt.

During the visit, Stephen met with former CAP clients, local debt advisors, and support workers to discuss the challenges faced by people living on low incomes. Many shared how rising costs and insufficient income from wages and social security have left them unable to afford essentials, forcing them into debt.

Stephen also heard about the value of CAP’s holistic approach to support. With over 3,000 local workers and partnerships with more than 200 churches, CAP provides face-to-face help that addresses both financial and emotional needs. Clients spoke about how this personalised support has helped them regain financial stability and confidence.

Reflecting on the visit, Stephen said: “As we continue our review into Universal Credit, it was important to hear the views of the charity’s clients and debt advisors on how we can ensure the benefit is tackling poverty and works better for people. Christians Against Poverty is doing a fantastic job supporting people to manage their debt and enjoy the benefits of financial freedom.”

Stephen welcomes commitment to recognising Palestinian statehood

Stephen has welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement that the UK is on a pathway to recognising the State of Palestine in September, unless urgent steps are taken by the Israeli Government to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The Prime Minister made clear that unless Israel halts its military operations, permits the flow of UN aid, and commits to no further annexations in the West Bank, the UK will proceed with recognition of Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Since taking office, the Government has taken a series of urgent steps to address the crisis. These include working with Jordan to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza, evacuating injured children to receive treatment in British hospitals, and suspending arms export licences to Israel. The Government has also imposed sanctions on far-right Israeli ministers, suspended trade negotiations, and committed nearly a quarter of a billion pounds in humanitarian support. A landmark agreement has also been reached with the Palestinian Authority to support long-term peace efforts.

In a letter to constituents, Stephen emphasised that Palestinian statehood is not a gift to be granted, but an inalienable right of the Palestinian people. He said recognition is essential to achieving a lasting peace and the long-term security of both Palestinians and Israelis. He also reiterated the Government’s position that Hamas must release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, lay down its arms, and accept that it will play no role in the future governance of Gaza.

“No one side will have a veto on recognition,” Stephen said. “This is about restoring hope, dignity, and a path to peace. I am proud to support a Government that is taking bold, principled action in the face of immense suffering.”

Stephen visits Newham University Hospital

Stephen Timms alongside some previous beneficiaries of supported internships.

A few weeks ago, Stephen visited Newham University Hospital to learn more about the Council’s supported internship programme.

Supported internships are a work-based study programme for young people with learning disabilities, aged 16 to 24. They are structured around a substantial work placement, facilitated by the support of an expert job coach.

Newham Council’s supported internships programme forms part of their efforts to champion inclusive employment. The programme has already helped 56 residents into work placement, with 36 progressing into long-term paid employment, and 11 into further education.

During the visit, Stephen heard from young people who had benefited from the scheme. One of these young people, Abdul, has recently completed the 12 month programme. He was working with the administration team, and has now been offered a permanent role – something that means a lot to him, as it is a reflection that his skills are valued.

After attending the event, Stephen said “It was such a pleasure to meet the young people on the scheme and learn first-hand the valuable experience it’s given them, and especially to hear that these young people are moving into permanent jobs.” 

Stephen looks forward to seeing how the council continue to build on these efforts.

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