Bella Napoli fundraising for the earthquake in Turkey/Syria
It was really good to meet with Ayhan and others from Bella Napoli. They’ve been at the heart of fundraising efforts to support all those who have been the victims of the recent devastating earthquake in Turkey/Syria. Bella Napoli has been one of the main collection points for those wishing to make donations.
All in all, 5 large van worth of donations have been sent to Turkey. Temperatures in this part of Turkey are very cold at this time of the year so lots of blanks, electrical heaters and sleeping bags have been donated.
Ipswich has a large Turkish community and sadly a number of my constituents have relatives who have either lost their lives or had their lives turned upside down by this earthquake. It’s heart-warming to see how the local community have come together and been supported by those across the Town.
We also discussed the possibility of a new Turkish community organisation and a centre. The local Turkish community being a lot to the Town in so many different places ways.
Bella Napoli is a great set of restaurants. Good quality but affordable. Very friendly staff. I’ve been to all three many times. Queen Street, Woodbridge Road and Pownall Road!
Cladding Interview on BBC Radio Suffolk
Further to my previous post on cladding, I was on BBC Radio Suffolk to discuss the cladding issues we have in Ipswich. Give it a listen.
St Francis Tower
Have had to bring this issue directly to the attention of the relevant Minister.
Not only do many of the residents of St Francis Tower find it very difficult to communicate with Block Management, but now they’ve stopped responding to my emails.
It’s hard to believe that the shrink wrap is still on St Francis Tower. I’ve said time and time again that I frankly find it astonishing that the current situation is even legal. We need new regulations urgently to stipulate more explicitly what’s acceptable and what’s not when it comes to remediation works.
Many of these companies think they can act with impunity. In many senses, they’re right to think so. This needs to change urgently.
Happy Christmas
Grill @twenty5’s Homeless Breakfast 2022
I made my annual visit to the Grill @twenty5’s Homeless Breakfast this morning where food is provided free to those who are homeless or living in temporary accommodation. Since starting in December 2019, co-owner Tina Leamon and her team have hosted impressive events to support those struggling and have wide support from the local community through donations of clothes. During Covid they supplied deliveries and have continued to act as a clothes donation centre also.
This event is always held on the last working day before Christmas each year from 7am-11am but they also provide food throughout the year too. They are given donations from local businesses and had been able to support 20-25 people today alone when I arrived.
Unfortunately, due to the cost of living situation, some people are struggling with their financial situation so it was important to be able to discuss this with representatives from Ipswich Housing Action Group, Ipswich Borough Council and Anglia Care Trust. What is stark is how many of these individuals who are struggling have disabilities and/or learning difficulties. Support for those less able in our communities is vital so I was thankful that I have been able to raise this.
Further to this I was also able to speak about the work local groups are doing to support rough sleepers and those at risk of homelessness in Ipswich. These are tough times for people and the work on the Grill @twenty5 is a great example of another community initiative.
Christmas Lights Competition
Meeting Minister responsible for fire safety and cladding
I’ve met more than once with the new Minister responsible for fire safety and cladding, Lee Rowley, over the past week. We have discussed the situation at Cardinal Lofts and I’ve also brought him fully up to speed as he’s new to his post on the scandalous situation at St Francis Tower.
This photo is from last week but I met again with him today and will be doing so again later this week.
He’s been responsive on the Cardinal Lofts issue and I’m hopeful that he’ll finally bring forward some concerted Government action on the St Francis Tower issue.
Remembrance Sunday
Like every other year I’ve had the opportunity to do so it was a great privilege to be able to lay a wreath this morning as the Town’s MP in memory of the brave Ipswich residents who gave their lives in defence of our country and our values.
Extremely poignant and emotional address by an Ipswich Ukrainian resident. Absolutely her country men and women are in our prayers also at this dark hour for her country.
Like last last I enjoyed going back once the crowds had left to take a look at all the wreaths and chat with a few constituents.
