This weekend sees the official opening of the Duke on the Test which has been refurbished and restored over the last few months. It is great to see the building looking so wonderful and confidence in the hospitality sector returning. I am also looking forward to visiting Pipestock at Abbey Park, and a busy couple of days in the constituency this weekend.
Last weekend I was fortunate to be able to meet members of Avon and Somerset Police and the safeguarding team at Glastonbury, to talk about how they make sure festival goers are kept safe during what is the world’s largest music festival. The Women and Equalities Select Committee is looking at the cultures underpinning male violence against women, and as well as looking at sport and education we are also considering the impact the music industry might have. The epidemic of drink spiking is of real concern, and it was interesting to hear of the training given to bar staff at this event, making sure they are alert to the dangers that young people particularly face.
This week in Parliament I attended an event with Octopus Moneycoach, to hear about the work they do with employers and individuals around money management and financial inclusion. Their coaches were brilliant at explaining how they work on a one to one basis with people to help them through financial challenges and making decisions about debt, savings and pensions. With the impending cost of living crisis the service is one which could be of real benefit.
