Neurodiverse within British Armed Forces
As many of you know, I often raise points about how to make better use of the talents of people who have neurodiverse conditions. Due to having dyspraxia and dyslexia myself, I come under this “neurodiverse” label. Many of those who are neurodiverse see things others can’t and think outside the box. As a society it is in our interest to make use of all talents and different ways of thinking.
Recently I discussed with the senior Army leadership how the British Army could make better use of those who are neurodiverse. Due to the increasing importance of cyber, the need for individuals who can think differently has increased so it feels like the issue is coming to a head.
Some of the physical tasks and challenges associated with being in the Armed Forces often prohibit those who are neurodiverse. Perhaps there may be a limit to what can be done, but if there is a way of ensuring that the Armed Forces don’t miss out on the talents of those who are neurodiverse and want to serve, that would be brilliant.
I was remined of my dyspraxia the other week when it took my almost half an hour to put a belt on when I visited Sandhurst.
I was reassured by the response provided by the Defence Secretary. He gets it, as do the leadership team at Sandhurst when I spoke to them about recruitment.
NHS dentistry in Ipswich
Improve the River Gipping
Today I asked the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs about how to turn around the state of the River Gipping.
More and more constituents got in touch with me over the summer about the River Gipping – full of algae, shopping trolleys abandoned, distinctly unloved. This is a local waterway with a lot of potential for public access and usage, which currently we are not taking advantage of. I want to see this change.
I asked the Secretary of State about how to turn it around and improve the River Gipping. I think it is clear that the local authority, Ipswich Borough Council, need to take responsibility here and help us create a more positive future for the waterways and public access to the river.
First Day Back
Quick video on my first day back in Parliament after summer recess. Liz Truss has been announced as the new Leader of the Conservative Party and tomorrow she will be confirmed as the new Prime Minister. Here are my thoughts:
Queens Speech Reaction
A few thoughts on the Queen’s speech. Will be making a speech about it on Thursday. It was an amazing experience being in the Royal gallery but sorry not to see the Queen who I know we’re all thinking about at the moment.