Dear resident,
I am writing to update you following the summer recess in Parliament. The past few months have been exceptionally busy, with Parliament scrutinising and passing major pieces of legislation.
Workers’ Rights
From introducing day-one rights to parental leave, ending exploitative zero-hour contracts, and strengthening statutory sick pay, this Labour Government is taking a historic step towards delivering the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation.
I want to pay tribute to former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner for her leadership in bringing forward this landmark legislation.
Hillsborough Law
Labour promised in our 2024 manifesto to deliver the Hillsborough Law. While the law cannot undo the injustices of the past, it will finally provide families with a framework of justice and accountability, ensuring that no community is ever again betrayed by the institutions meant to protect them.
This legislation will rebalance power between the State and its citizens. It introduces a new legal Duty of Candour and creates a new offence for seriously misleading the public. Together, these measures will require all public officials to act with honesty, integrity, and transparency.
English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill
Thank you to everyone who has contacted me about the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill. From the introduction of the supplementary vote system to expanding the community right to buy, this is a landmark piece of legislation with much to welcome.
However, I am deeply concerned by proposals to force all councils to adopt the leader-and-cabinet model. In May 2021, the people of Sheffield voted decisively – by 65% – to move to a modern committee system of governance. That democratic decision must be respected. You can watch my speech on this in Parliament here.
Campaigns in Parliament
I was proud to join Breast Cancer Now at the launch of their #MoreTimeToLive campaign and report, which highlights how flaws in the NICE severity modifier are blocking access to life-extending treatments for secondary breast cancer. The report makes clear, practical recommendations that the Government must act upon.
I also spoke in a Westminster Hall debate on Indefinite Leave to Remain. Employers, particularly in science, research, and higher education, have told me that lengthening the qualifying period will make the UK less attractive to international talent. Making it harder for migrants to settle here does not solve problems but instead creates them. You can watch a clip of my speech here.
As Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on SEND, I worked with the National Association of Headteachers and other specialists to produce a report on reforming the SEND system in England. Drawing on evidence from practitioners, families, and regulators, the report identifies the critical importance of early identification and intervention, and the need for a joined-up, multi-service approach underpinned by legislation requiring collaboration and joint accountability.
In the Community
I spoke on BBC Radio 4 about the importance of building a more inclusive Labour Party – one that listens, learns and leads with compassion. Voters have made it clear that they want meaningful change. It is essential that the Government engages with that message and work towards the promises we made. You can listen to the clip here.
Following concerns raised by local residents, my team held a series of pop-up surgeries in Redmires to speak directly with people and resolve issues. So far this year, we have responded to 12,534 cases – ranging from policy enquiries to complex casework – ensuring residents’ voices are heard and acted upon.
I was also pleased to welcome Minister Stephanie Peacock to meet the girls’ cricket teams at Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club. The Minister heard first-hand about the benefits of sport and the challenges of sustaining accessible opportunities. I am delighted that the Government has announced new indoor domes, which will expand the game in areas of need and boost women’s and girls’ cricket ahead of the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup – helping secure a lasting legacy from the tournament here in the UK.
Have Your Say
NHS South Yorkshire are running two consultations, with both closing on Friday 17th October 2025.
The first is a review on how many cycles of IVF should be funded for people in our area and they want to hear from you. You can have your say through the link here.
The second is a review on how much gluten-free bread and bread-mix is prescribed to eligible patients and your views will help shape the outcome. You can have your say through the link here.
As ever, thank you for reading my update. If there is anything my team or I can support you with please do not hesitate to contact me on olivia.blake.mp@parliament.uk
Kind regards,
Olivia Blake MP