As a new MP before you even get near the chamber or a select committee you receive your first few bags of constituents’ letters and the emails start coming in long before you have access to a computer! Aside from the normal exchange of political views, people turn to their MP when they find themselves in difficult or challenging situations. Sadly this is often as a last resort when all else has failed. Unfortunately some situations, despite every effort, simply can’t be resolved. However on the occasions when an MP can make the difference it is the most rewarding part of the job.
Earlier this week, I visited one of the key organisations to which people turn in times of hardship: Horsham Citizens’ Advice. I know from my work what an invaluable service they provide and I was delighted to have the opportunity to meet with volunteers and staff. They updated me on the services they offer and the challenges they face.
It is no surprise that some of the frustrations I heard expressed by Citizens Advice I share. They speak to people face to face on issues including welfare and tax credits, health and community care, debt and, in particular, housing. Via the Horsham Citizens Advice those over 55 can also seek guidance on how to make best use of their new "pension freedoms".
The work they do in our community is vital, working with in excess of 3,300 clients last year, on 9,402 cases. I am very much looking forward to working with Citizens Advice in the coming years.
Some of my Parliamentary colleagues - from all political backgrounds - assume that there is no deprivation locally, that Sussex's potential social challenges are comfortably smothered by general affluence. We know that to be wrong: there are real problems impacting individuals which need addressing, many of which are very deep seated.
If you have an issue or problem that you feel I could be of assistance with, please do get in touch via www.jeremyquin.com or by writing to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.