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Dawn Bowden is the Labour Senedd Member for the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency.

Great to hear our children laughing and having fun

It is good to be writing my regular blog piece for Caerphilly Observer and I hope you are enjoying the opportunity to be out and about this summer. I must admit my diary remains busy as I try and catch up with local groups and visit places and groups I was unable to meet during lockdown. 

Summer of fun/fit and fed

I have particularly enjoyed the opportunity to visit a number of the summer projects funded by the Welsh Government to help our children make the most of their holidays, meet friends and to keep fit and healthy. 

We know the pandemic hit our children hard so it has been lovely to hear their laughter, see them having fun and once again enjoying each others company. Thanks to all those who ran sessions for our young people, including Caerphilly County Borough Council. 

Transport to health

There is currently a project funded by Aneurin University Health Board that is looking at the transport needs for residents in the Rhymney valley (and Merthyr) to access their health appointments or to visit loved ones in hospital. This survey will provide important information about the transport needs of constituents so please take a look at the survey and respond. 

Exam success

My congratulations go to all our learners throughout the Rhymney valley who achieved success in their GCSE, A-levels and with vocational qualifications. It has been a tough period for those attending our schools and colleges and all those staff involved in supporting our young people have my thanks for their efforts. 

Minds have of course also turned to the new school term and the current aim remains for teaching to be as normal as possible. 

Visit and advice opportunities

In the coming months I will be trying out some new ways of working along with my casework team. 

My constituency office is of course always open to receive calls and deal with queries on 01685 386 672. You can also email Dawn.Bowden@senedd.cymru with constituency queries. Appointments can be made to meet me as required. 

Outreach surgeries

My casework team will shortly be starting outreach surgeries to help constituents by making themselves available in the Rhymney valley on a regular basis. 

Street surgeries

The regular street surgeries will continue, often along with Gerald Jones MP. The street surgeries provide a regular opportunity to knock doors, listen to views and to take up casework. 

“Cuppa with your MS” 

As we move in to the Autumn I am also trying more informal ‘Cuppa with your MS’ sessions in which I will visit a local venue and be available for a chat or to offer advice. Look out for these on my social media and drop in for a chat when I am in your area.