Stephen attends Evidence Week event in Parliament

Credit: UEL

Stephen has met with leading researchers from the University of East London in Parliament to get up to speed on how we can tackle the housing crisis by prioritising suitable accommodation placements with AI.

Stephen also spoke to researchers from the University of Southampton and got the latest data and insights on other pressing policy issues, including how marine research can inform policymakers to accelerate offshore wind and meet 2050 wind power targets.  

Evidence Week brings together MPs and leading scientists to get the latest insights on pressing issues, covering topics as varied as health, environment and net zero, cost of living, children’s wellbeing, and AI and innovation. It opened on 6 July with a ‘Reverse Select Committee’ in Parliament, where voters from across the country got to question chairs and members of parliamentary Select Committees about the evidence behind legislation that affects them.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “It was a pleasure to take part in Evidence Week in Parliament and meet researchers from the University of East London and the University of Southampton.

Our discussions highlighted how evidence and innovation can help tackle some of the country's biggest challenges. I was particularly interested to hear how AI could help local authorities identify suitable housing placements more quickly and effectively, and how marine research is supporting efforts to expand offshore wind and meet our long-term net zero ambitions.”

Westminster’s annual Evidence Week in Parliament brings together the public, researchers and MPs to discuss how evidence is used and scrutinised at Westminster. It is organised by the campaigning charity Sense about Science in partnership with community groups including Shout Out UK, mySociety and research institutions across the UK.

Stephen: "PIP is not fit for purpose"

Credit: BBC

Stephen has said the UK's disability benefits system needs "fundamental change" after his major review found Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is no longer fit for purpose.

The interim report of the Timms Review, published today, is the first comprehensive review of PIP since it was introduced in 2013. Drawing on more than 38,000 responses from disabled people, charities and experts, it found that while PIP remains a vital lifeline for many people, the system is failing to reflect the realities of modern disability and long-term health conditions.

The review found that over 90% of respondents described negative experiences of the claims process, with many reporting that assessments felt "dehumanising", "degrading" and stressful.

Speaking about the review, Stephen said: "This interim report delivers a clear message: while PIP is widely valued as a benefit, it is not working as intended and needs fundamental change.

“We have heard from tens of thousands of disabled people about a system that too often creates barriers rather than removing them.

“I am grateful to everyone who has shared their experiences and helped shape this review. We now move to the next stage of developing recommendations for a fairer, more trusted and more effective system."

The review recognised that PIP remains crucial in helping disabled people meet the extra costs of disability and maintain their independence. However, it also found that the current system often struggles to support people with fluctuating, less visible or multiple health conditions.

The review team will now continue gathering evidence and testing reform options before publishing its final recommendations in the autumn.

Stephen hosts roundtable discussion on the future of PIP

Stephen with some of the participants

Earlier today Stephen hosted a roundtable discussion with disabled constituents in East Ham today as part of the Government's review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

The event brought together people with lived experience of claiming PIP to share their experiences directly with Stephen. The discussion formed part of the evidence gathering for the Timms Review, the first comprehensive review of PIP since the benefit was introduced.

The workshop explored what PIP means to those who receive it, the experience of applying for the benefit, how decisions are made, and what improvements could be made to ensure the system better supports disabled people.

Participants described PIP as a vital source of support that enables people to live independently, meet the additional costs associated with disability, and participate in work, education and community life. Many explained that the benefit helps fund essential transport, specialist equipment, communication support and other disability-related expenses.

Attendees also shared candid reflections on the challenges of the current system. Many spoke of the stress and anxiety associated with the application and assessment process, particularly the need to repeatedly explain the impact of their disability. There were calls for a system that is more accessible, more compassionate and better reflects the lived reality of disabled people, including those with fluctuating or less visible conditions.

Stephen with participant, Rebecca Belony, who is profoundly deaf.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of improving accessibility throughout the process, with participants raising issues including communication support for British Sign Language users, making better use of medical evidence, reducing unnecessary reassessments for people with lifelong conditions, and ensuring assessments focus on the real impact a disability has on daily life.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “It was invaluable to hear directly from people with first-hand experience of Personal Independence Payment. Their insights, both about what works well and where the system falls short, will help shape the Timms Review as we consider how PIP can better support disabled people in the future.

“I am grateful to everyone who took the time to attend and speak so openly about their experiences. Listening to the voices of people who use the system is essential if we are to build a system that is fair, accessible and focused on helping people live independent lives."

Stephen attends PSC lobby in Parliament

Earlier today, Stephen attended a national lobby in Parliament organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC).

At the event, constituents shared their concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for further action from the UK Government. These calls included an immediate arms embargo and stronger measures to address the crisis.

Speaking after the event, Stephen said: “The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains extremely serious, and it is right that their concerns are heard. The immediate priority must be to ensure that aid reaches those who need it, quickly and at scale. I will continue to encourage Ministers to work with international partners to support those affected.”

Stephen joins local police on walkabout

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Stephen has joined the Metropolitan Police for a walkabout on Green Street during Neighbourhood Policing Week

Neighbourhood Policing Week began on 21 June. It highlights the work of local policing teams and provides an opportunity for residents and community representatives to engage directly with officers.

During the visit, Stephen met with police officers working in East Ham and saw first-hand the work being carried out to keep the local area safe. The walkabout included discussions with officers about local concerns, visibility on the streets, and the importance of building trust with residents and businesses.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “It was very good to join local officers on Green Street and see the work they are doing in the community. Neighbourhood policing plays a vital role in keeping people safe and in building strong relationships with residents and local businesses. I am grateful to the team for their commitment and their work in East Ham.”

Stephen "pleased" about Council's refusal for Denmark Arms

Stephen has welcomed the decision by Newham Council to refuse plans to convert the former Denmark Arms pub into an adult gaming centre.

The application, submitted by 311 Investments Ltd, proposed turning the ground floor of the Grade II listed building at the junction of Barking Road and High Street North into a slot machine venue. Councillors rejected the plans, citing the loss of a valued public house, harm to a historic building, and concerns about the concentration of gambling premises in the area.

Stephen had previously written to Newham Council to oppose the proposal. In his letter, he warned that a large gambling venue in such a prominent location would be damaging to East Ham town centre.

Speaking about the decision, Stephen said: “I am very pleased that the Council has refused this application. The Denmark Arms is an important building at the heart of East Ham, and this proposal was clearly the wrong use for such a prominent site.

“Residents have been clear in their opposition. East Ham already has too many gambling venues, and adding another would have made the High Street feel less welcoming and less safe for families.”

He added:

“The Council was right to recognise both the heritage value of the building and the wider impact on the community. We need to support uses that strengthen the High Street and bring people together, not those that can contribute to harm and anti-social behaviour.”

In his earlier letter, Stephen highlighted concerns raised by constituents about the growing number of gambling establishments locally. He warned that further expansion would weaken the local shopping area and undermine efforts to improve the town centre.

Planning officers and councillors concluded that the proposal would harm the character of the listed building and lead to an overconcentration of gambling uses in East Ham. They also raised concerns around public safety and late-night activity linked to the proposed 24-hour operation.

Stephen attends social mobility reception

Credit: Social Mobility Foundation

Stephen has attended a reception hosted by the Social Mobility Alliance at the House of Commons. it brought together organisations, employers, and young people to discuss social mobility in the UK.

The event, titled “Driving Social Mobility in a Challenging Labour Market”, provided an opportunity for participants to share perspectives on the barriers facing young people and to explore practical ways to improve access to education and employment.

The Social Mobility Alliance is a coalition of organisations working to improve social mobility across the UK, including charities, education providers, and employers. The event focused on three key themes: improving routes into employment, including internships and apprenticeships; widening access to education; and opportunities supporting more diverse and inclusive workplaces

During the reception, attendees heard directly from young people about their experiences and the challenges they face when progressing into further education and employment. The discussion also examined how opportunities across the UK can be made more accessible, regardless of background.

Stephen welcomed the opportunity to engage with a broad range of perspectives and to hear directly from those affected by these issues. Events of this kind aim to inform ongoing conversations about how best to support individuals into education, training, and work.

The reception formed part of a wider programme of engagement by the Social Mobility Alliance to encourage dialogue between policymakers, employers, and communities on improving long-term opportunities across the UK

Stephen to host DWP “Workshop in a Box”

Stephen will be hosting a community workshop in East Ham on Friday 3 July to gather local views on Personal Independence Payment (PIP) as part of a wider national review.

The session forms part of the “Workshop in a Box” programme, which aims to create opportunities for people to share their experiences of the PIP system and how it affects their lives. They are designed to bring together individuals, carers, local organisations and others with relevant experience to contribute their perspectives.

The East Ham event will focus on three key areas:

• what PIP is for

• what it is like to apply for PIP

• how decisions about PIP are made.pdf)

The workshops are part of the broader Timms Review of PIP, which is gathering evidence from across the UK to help inform recommendations for the future of the benefit. The review is placing particular importance on hearing directly from those with lived experience of disability or long-term health conditions. Insights gathered at workshops across the country will contribute to the ongoing evidence base, alongside tens of thousands of submissions already received through a national call for evidence.

The event is open to local residents and organisations interested in sharing their views and helping shape future policy. Those wanting to attend should email Stephen to register at timmss@parliament.uk.

Kensington receives funding to improve building

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Pupils at Kensington Primary School will benefit from additional funding to improve their school building.

Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) grants totalling over £450 million will support 684 schools and sixth-form colleges, including Kensington Primary School. The funding will be used for essential works such as replacing heating systems, repairing roofs, and upgrading electrical infrastructure. This funding forms part of a wider programme of investment aimed at improving the condition of school buildings across England, including the School Rebuilding Programme, which is refurbishing and rebuilding schools where needed.

These initiatives are designed to ensure that pupils in East Ham can learn in safe, well-maintained environments that are fit for purpose.

Improving school buildings helps create better learning conditions and supports pupils in their education and future development. The CIF programme is part of a broader commitment, with over £2.1 billion allocated this year to maintaining and improving school conditions across the country.

Additional investment is also being made to support councils in providing suitable places for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), as well as improving accessibility in mainstream schools.

The government’s Education Estates Strategy sets out long-term plans to ensure that school and college buildings are safe, sustainable, and capable of supporting high-quality education for all pupils.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “Parents in East Ham will remember the terror of the RAAC crisis, the fear that children were no longer safe in their own school because of poor building management.

“The government is turning the page through our Plan for Change, literally fixing the foundations of our schools so local children are in a safe environment where the can achieve and thrive.”

Stephen welcomes action on hidden childcare fees

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Stephen has welcomed action by the Government to address hidden childcare fees and ensure families receive the full benefit of expanded funded childcare hours.

Many parents have faced rising childcare costs and unclear additional charges. The new measures aim to make the system fairer, more transparent and easier for families to navigate.

The Education Secretary has written to the independent Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), asking it to investigate practices such as non-refundable deposits, compulsory add-ons and restrictions linked to accessing funded childcare hours.

Parents have reported being charged extra for essential items such as nappies and suncream, or being required to pay for additional hours to access funded support. These costs can reduce the intended benefit of childcare support and place further pressure on household budgets.

Alongside these measures, a new free online cost of living tool has been introduced to help families identify local childcare options, understand the support available to them, and plan their finances more effectively. These steps form part of a broader effort to improve affordability for families and to support children’s early development. This includes expanded childcare provision, breakfast clubs in schools, and measures aimed at reducing school-related costs.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “Families in East Ham need a childcare system that is clear, fair and affordable.

“These steps are intended to ensure parents can access the support available to them without unexpected costs, while improving transparency and confidence in the system.”

Stephen visits Brampton Manor DofE students

Credit: Brampton Manor Academy

Stephen has visited Brampton Manor Academy on to meet students taking part in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) and hear about the impact of the programme on their lives.

During the visit, students shared their experiences of completing their DofE, including recent expeditions in Epping Forest. They spoke about how the programme has helped build confidence, develop new skills and encourage active involvement in their local community.

Students described taking part in a wide range of activities, from sports to volunteering, and highlighted the positive effect on their personal development.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “Programmes like The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award allow young people to explore their passions, build confidence and develop the skills they need for life and work.

“I have been delighted to see the Award in action here at Brampton Manor Academy. It is excellent that 105 young people started their award last year. Through their volunteering and skills sections, young people are making a real difference to the local community in East Ham. That is a great source of pride and inspiration.”

Brampton Manor Academy has been a licensed DofE organisation for over eight years and has supported more than 392 students to start the award in the past four years. In the last year alone, participants contributed 3,354 hours of volunteering, delivering an estimated social value of over £25,000.

Stephen raises ODA cuts with Foreign Secretary

Earlier today, Stephen wrote to the Foreign Secretary asking whether she might look again at raising the Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) budget. 

Stephen’s letter was on behalf of a number of constituents who are supporters of the Borgen Project. The Borgen Project is an international non-profit organisation that looks to alleviate poverty and hunger around the world.

In his letter, Stephen advised the Foreign Secretary of his constituents’ concerns that ODA was being diverted to the UK's defence spending. 

Speaking later, Stephen said "I am grateful that my constituents have taken the trouble to get in touch about this important matter.

“The UK has a proud history in helping overseas countries. I am sure the Foreign Secretary will take into account the concerns of my constituents as she looks to spend our overseas development budget more effectively than ever before.”

To view Stephen’s letter to the Foreign Secretary, please click here.

Stephen opposes plans for Denmark Arms

Stephen has written to Newham Council to object to plans to convert the former Denmark Arms pub into an Adult Gaming Centre.

Stephen has been contacted by a number of constituents who are dismayed by the proposal. In his letter to the Chief Executive, Paul Martin, Stephen warned that East Ham High Street is already saturated with gambling premises, which contribute to anti‑social behaviour. He also highlighted the risk that a large adult gaming centre at such a visible location would undermine efforts by the Council, community groups and local businesses to improve East Ham town centre.

Stephen acknowledged that councils currently face tight legal constraints when trying to refuse gambling developments, but urged the local authority to explore all possible options to prevent the change of use, given the harm it could cause locally.

Speaking about the plans Stephen said: “I am utterly appalled by the plans. East Ham needs investment that strengthens the High Street and supports local families, not proposals that tip the balance further towards gambling.

“I will be opposing these plans and am sure hundreds of local residents will do too.”

Stephen: New health centre funding "will make a difference"

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Stephen has welcomed plans for a new neighbourhood health centre serving residents in Manor Park, Little Ilford, East Ham and nearby communities.

The new Centre Manor Park will bring a wide range of services together in one place, making it easier for local people to access care close to home.

The centre will host GP services, pharmacy provision and urgent treatment facilities under one roof. Over time, it is expected to offer additional support such as employment advice, debt guidance and family services. Bringing these services together aims to address some of the pressures that contribute to poor health locally while helping to reduce demand on hospital departments.

The centre will open 12 hours a day, six days a week. It is one of the first group of neighbourhood health centres to be established, with further sites planned across England in the coming years.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “I am very pleased that residents in Manor Park and nearby areas will soon have a new neighbourhood health centre within easy reach. Local people often tell me how difficult it can be to navigate different services when they need support. Bringing GP care, pharmacy services, urgent treatment and wider community advice together in one accessible place will make a real difference for many households.

“This centre will be particularly valuable for residents managing long-term or complex conditions, who will benefit from more coordinated support close to home.”

Neighbourhood health centres are designed to offer faster and more joined‑up care, helping people receive the support they need earlier and preventing unnecessary hospital visits.

Stephen welcomes new "Best Start" nursery in Forest Gate

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Stephen has welcome the creation of a new “Best Start” nursery which will open at Monega Primary School, in Forest Gate.

The nursery will create additional childcare places for families in Manor Park and Forest Gate. The expansion is part of a national programme that is supporting more than 300 schools to develop or extend nursery provision from September.

School-based nurseries are intended to offer additional childcare close to home, reduce travel time for families, and support parents who are balancing work and caring responsibilities. They also provide a single drop-off location for families with children of different ages.

Across the country, 331 schools have been allocated a share of £45 million in capital funding to build or expand nurseries on their sites. The new Best Start nurseries will create more than 6,000 additional childcare places, building on the first phase of the programme.

Recent national figures show that over a million parents now use government‑funded childcare schemes. These include funded hours for eligible working parents and free breakfast clubs, which aim to support family budgets and improve access to early education.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “Families in East Ham regularly raise the importance of accessible childcare and support for parents balancing work and family life. I contacted local schools last year to highlight the Best Start programme and the opportunity to expand nursery places in our area.

“I am pleased that Monega has now been successful in its application and will be able to provide new childcare places for local families.”

Stephen introduces new work programme for disabled Londoners

Stephen has introduced a programme to help disabled Londoners move closer to employment by offering tailored, one‑to‑one support.

Under the scheme, specially trained advisers—known as work coaches—meet individuals who have health conditions or disabilities and are not currently required to look for work. The advisers help participants explore opportunities such as skills training, courses, and potential pathways into jobs that match their circumstances.

Around 135 advisers are now based in job centres across London, forming part of a wider effort that has supported more than 65,000 people nationally in its first year. Evidence published about the programme suggests that personalised guidance increases the likelihood that participants will find and sustain employment over time.

A recent review carried out by Sir Charlie Mayfield looked at ways to improve workplace health and test new approaches over the next few years. There is also a focus on helping people stay in work when they develop health problems, where small changes in the workplace could prevent them from feeling they have to leave their job.

Speaking about the programme, Stephen said: “A year ago, the DWP set the target that we wanted to give this extra work coach support to 65,000 people over the course of the following 12 months and we managed that. These are people who the system has previously told they are incapable of work, and it's kind of written them off.

“We know that lots of people actually can be in work, and we want to give them the support to make work feasible. The evidence is now very clear. We're publishing new evidence on this, that those who've had this additional help are significantly more likely to be in work, be in a job, and stay in work for an extended period. And we want to give people the chance of fulfilling their ambitions.”

Stephen praises £20 million investment for Little Ilford

Stephen has welcomed the announcement that Little Ilford will receive £20 million of Government funding over the next decade through the national Pride in Place programme. The funding is intended to support resident‑led improvements, strengthen community networks, and help local high streets thrive.

Little Ilford is one of 40 additional areas selected for long‑term investment as part of the Government’s expansion of the programme. The funding will run until 2036 and aims to give local communities a leading role in shaping improvements in their neighbourhood.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “This is very good news for Little Ilford. A ten‑year investment of this scale provides real stability and will allow the community, local partners, and the Council to plan for meaningful, lasting improvements. I look forward to supporting residents as they help shape the priorities for the area over the coming years.”

The Pride in Place programme will build on more than £1.6 million already invested in Little Ilford through previous neighbourhood schemes. Recent improvements have included the refurbishment of the Jack Cornwell Centre, enhanced play areas and green spaces, and upgraded alleyways to improve safety and connectivity.

The new funding will also support the work of Newham’s Town Centre and High Streets Strategy, helping to keep Romford Road, Church Road, and Little Ilford Lane vibrant and welcoming places for residents and local businesses. As part of the programme requirements, a new Little Ilford Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board will be established. The Board will include residents, community organisations, local businesses, council officers, and the local MP. It will oversee the design of a ten‑year vision for the area and guide the delivery of projects that reflect local needs and priorities.

Further information about how residents and local groups can get involved will be shared in the coming weeks.

Stephen: SEND reforms provide children in East Ham with “crucial tailored support”

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Stephen has welcomed new plans to reform the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) system in England.

The reforms aim to improve outcomes for SEND children across the country by addressing rising demand, delays for families, and growing financial pressures across the system. They include: the introduction of a clearer tiered model of support, with new Individual Support Plans (ISPs) delivered within schools; strengthened national inclusion standards; and improved access to specialist professionals such as educational psychologists and therapists.

Speaking about this announcement, Stephen said: “SEND is a major issue for many families in East Ham. These reforms are aimed at levelling the playing field, with stronger inclusion in mainstream schools providing SEND children with the crucial tailored support they need to succeed.

“I want to collaborate with other MPs, local families, and schools to understand how best East Ham can benefit from this plan. I encourage parents, carers, and educators to review the plan and share their views to help ensure the system delivers timely, high-quality support for every child who needs it.”

The latest announcement from the Government pledges up to £4bn of additional investment, including £1.6bn directly to schools, and £1.8bn for specialist support capacity. Government spending on SEND across this Parliament is expected to rise, with full implementation of the plan expected from 2029.

Stephen: It’s “good news” that energy bills are to fall"

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Stephen has said that it will be “good news” that average energy bills will likely fall from April this year.

Earlier today, the energy regulator, Ofgem, has confirmed that the energy price cap will decrease by 7% from April. This change is expected to reduce the annual bill of a typical household by around £117.

From April, the reduced price cap will reflect changes in wholesale energy costs and other industry-wide adjustments. A number of support measures also remain in place, including the Warm Home Discount, which this winter has provided £150 off bills for many eligible households.

Alongside the price cap reduction, there are ongoing efforts across the energy sector to improve consumer protections. These include work to review standing charges, ensure fair processes around prepayment meters, strengthen compensation arrangements, and make the energy market more resilient and transparent for customers.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “The affordability crisis is the number one issue facing families in East Ham. I see it in my casework every day.

“Any fall in energy prices is welcome for households in East Ham. I will continue to follow developments closely and raise with ministers and regulators the issues my constituents report to me about affordability, energy security, and the need for a more stable system.”

Stephen welcomes new ‘fast track’ apprenticeships

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Stephen welcomed news that young people will be given a quicker route into high‑quality jobs on major projects, as new measures are introduced to speed up the development of training programmes. He has also pledged to work with local partners and businesses to ensure young people living in East Ham can benefit.

A new accelerated approach will allow updates to training, or the development of shorter courses, to be completed in as little as three months. This aims to help ensure the workforce is prepared for major projects requiring skilled employees.

These measures form part of wider efforts to increase the number of young people progressing into higher‑level learning or apprenticeships. Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “East Ham’s future success depends on supporting more young people into good jobs with clear prospects. These changes will reduce bureaucracy so training can be delivered more quickly in the industries where skills are most needed.

“I want to work with local MPs, council leaders and local businesses to make sure East Ham can make the most of this opportunity and help more young people locally move into apprenticeships.”

“I welcome the investment being directed towards young people and the focus on ensuring they have opportunities to earn or learn.”

The latest reforms - announced by the DWP - are intended to strengthen support for young people taking up apprenticeships. They include a £725 million investment to help the training system respond more quickly to employers’ needs and to ensure skills can be delivered where they are most required.