1 August 2025

This week has been a quieter week for me. August generally slows down, but this means that I can pick up a lot of Ward issues alongside my co-Councillor Steve Nelson.

I had a lovely, chilled out time with my Dad at Liverpool last weekend. I used to work for RMT the trade union and Liverpool Lime Street was always my favourite destination and didn't disappoint. The people are so friendly and diverse, and we had a great time.

Tuesday, I had meetings with colleagues that weren't Council related but on Wednesday I had the pleasure of attending the latest Wellington Wellness event at Wellington Square. Wellington Wellness is an exhibition that brings together community groups and service providers from across Teesside. During these events, residents of Stockton-on-Tees and surrounding areas can access valuable resources, advice and support for mental health, physical wellbeing, and seasonal self-care. I had a wander around the stalls and even took part in a boxing class to relieve stress and improve mental health and wellbeing.

I then attended the Health and Wellbeing board for which I am Chair. The agenda included an update on the Better Care Fund and discussion around the NHS ten-year plan. We also had a development session on our priorities as a Board for the next six months. It was very difficult to choose these as there are lots of issues that need addressing but we also need to look at what all of us are doing collectively.

This week I have been around Dunedin House a lot. I said August is quiet, but it also gives me the opportunity to catch up with officers and discuss issues as well as future plans.

Today I am looking forward to the start of Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF). We have another fantastic programme of arts, theatre, dance, and music acts from across the globe. Tonight, I will be attending SIRF, which kicks off with the spectacular launch show Life Lines by Compagnie Lézards Bleus which sees five parkour dancers explore the architecture of Stockton! 

I am incredibly proud that Stockton-on-Tees is home to the North East's biggest free to enjoy festival and am looking forward to a wonderful show this evening. SIRF is running from now until Sunday 3 August and you can see this year's programme on the SIRF website. I always take pride that some of our residents would never get access to these amazing events, but we deliver them for free to be totally inclusive.

My highlight is always the Community Carnival on Sunday where lots of local community groups, charities and schools parade through the High Street. It is an excellent example of community spirit, cohesion and everything that Stockton is about.

I will be attending all weekend. Please feel free to say hello but above all, enjoy your weekend.