Reflecting on 2025

As we begin the new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that has been achieved in 2025, the first full calendar year of this Labour Government, and to look ahead to what we can accomplish together in 2026.

The General Election may feel like only yesterday, but already this Government has delivered transformative change for communities here in Wakefield and Rothwell. Over the past twelve months, we have passed crucial pieces of legislation that will make a real difference to people’s lives.

The Renter's Rights Act has given millions of private renters greater security, ending Section 21 “no‑fault” evictions and driving up housing standards through Awaab’s Law.

The Bus Services Act has handed local leaders the powers they need to run services for the benefit of passengers, not profit, ensuring buses once again serve communities reliably.

And only weeks ago, the Employment Rights Act was passed - the biggest shake‑up of workers’ rights in a generation. It delivers day‑one rights for millions, stronger maternity and paternity protections, and tough measures to clamp down on exploitative zero‑hour contracts and fire‑and‑rehire practices.

These are just a few of the landmark achievements of 2025. Alongside them, we have expanded free school meals, frozen rail fares for the first time in 30 years, and abolished the two‑child benefit cap - a single measure that will lift 450,000 children out of poverty.

Closer to home, I am proud of the Government’s commitment to end the injustice of the British Coal Staff Superannuation Scheme (BCSSS) at November’s Budget. Here in Wakefield, we are proud of our mining heritage. We owe a huge debt to the miners and coal staff who powered our nation, and it fills me with pride to see them finally receiving the pensions and security they deserve.

There is much to feel positive about, but I know from the emails and letters I receive every day that people are eager for more. That is why we cannot be complacent. We must be bold and see 2026 as a challenge to go further and deliver even more for our communities.

There is plenty to look forward to. The Railways Bill will continue its journey through Parliament, simplifying ticketing and establishing our new publicly owned Great British Railways.

In the new year, the Government will publish further plans to reform our NHS to get people seen and treater quicker with doctors, nurses and medical staff we need for a modern NHS. I’m also looking forward to the Government’s proposals to fix the special educational needs system, to provide greater support and inclusion for every child’s learning journey.

As we step into 2026, my commitment to you remains unchanged. I am as determined as ever to be a champion for Wakefield and Rothwell, to stand up for our communities, and to work tirelessly for the progress and change we are all desperate to see.