As a parent, I want to ensure that the world we pass on to future generations is safer and cleaner, more prosperous, and healthier. I want to create a better and brighter future for everyone in our community.
One of my children recently finished school. After twelve years of studies, he is enjoying a busy summer before embarking on a new journey at sixth form. Another one of my children has just finished their first year at university. I am incredibly proud of all my children. As a local MP, I want to ensure that all children in our community can lead happy and fulfilling lives that they have chosen.
I want to make sure our young people are equipped with the support, knowledge, and skills that they need to go as far as their talents will take them. At the heart of this ambition is our commitment to levelling up opportunities in education, training, and employment. In Wolverhampton, a new school will be built, a well-established one will be rebuilt so that it can offer enhanced facilities, and all schools will see an increased budget. I am keen to work with schools, carers, and young people themselves, to ensure that their voices are heard and that young people have the best possible start in life. Since my election, I have been visiting or otherwise engaging with local schools and education leaders and thank them for their dedicated efforts and hard work.
I know that the situation regarding COVID-19 has had a profound impact on young people and their wider development. I have been clear that the Government must not only invest in delivering the curriculum, help level up mental health support across the board and support teachers in the amazing work they do. I am pleased that the Government has brought forward a new package of measures, with our city receiving tens of thousands of pounds to invest in education recovery and wellbeing.
The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a huge impact on young people in our area, and I know that many young people are worried about their future. I am working hard with our local partners and the Government to ensure that this impact can be minimised. To help me better understand the needs and aspirations of our city, I am running a new consultation, my brighter future survey. I am inviting all constituents to tell me about their views and what they want to see as we recover from COVID-19 and bounce back better. The results will shape the basis of my work on this very important subject.
As ever, my office and I are available and ready to help with any enquiries. I have also published information about the support available on my website and there are some independent organisations that can help too. For example. if young people are unsure about their future and would like to speak with a careers adviser, they can call the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900. This service can provide information, advice, and guidance to help them make decisions on learning, training, and work.