Sign in

Lauren Edwards MP

@laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social
1.1K followers 316 following 938 posts

Labour MP for Rochester and Strood For all enquiries please contact: lauren.edwards.mp@parliament.uk You can also visit my website here: www.laurenedwards.uk

PostsRepliesMedia
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Dame Esther was a remarkable woman whose courage and kindness touched many lives. It was an honour to have her support when I brought forward the assisted dying bill this year. She was a powerful voice for terminally ill people. My deepest condolences to her family and those who loved her.
1102
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Looking forward to joining LabourList, the British Retail Consortium and industry leaders today to discuss how we can create more opportunities for young people and tackle the NEET crisis through jobs, skills and apprenticeships.
020
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
£15 million a year to bring back the Union Learning Fund. Labour are helping working people gain new skills, access training and adapt to the opportunities created by new technology and AI.
141
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
I’m looking forward to joining The St Martin’s Group’s panel discussion this afternoon at Labour Conference, discussing how we can create more opportunities for young people through better access to skills, apprenticeships and quality careers.
242
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
I was pleased to support a constituent who was facing delays with an HMRC repayment. After raising the issue with HMRC, her outstanding payment was made and she was offered redress for the inconvenience caused. If you are facing a similar issue, please do not hesitate to get in touch with my office.
020
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
I recently attended the Corps of the Royal Engineers Annual Memorial Service to mark the 25th anniversary of UK troops deploying to Afghanistan. Delighted to hear that the Royal Engineers Books of Remembrance will move from Westminster Abbey to their new permanent home at Rochester Cathedral too.
020
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
There’s still time to apply to join the Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board and help shape how £20m of funding is spent in Strood West. Applications close Monday, so if you’re interested apply now here: buff.ly/mPEn2va
031
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
As Vice Chair of the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, I welcome our latest report on the ONS and UK Statistics Authority. We need to learn from past failures and rebuild trust in the data these institutions provide. Read the full report here: buff.ly/7HbRxf5
committees.parliament.uk
ONS on path to improve reputation but must learn from past failures, MPs find - Committees - UK Parliament
Those responsible for overseeing production of the UK’s official statistics must learn from failures at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and the UK Statistics Authority (UKSA) in order to…
063
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
My statement following the defeat of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill in the House of Commons. This is hugely disappointing for thousands of terminally ill people and their loved ones. The law as it stands is simply too cruel and unjust.
63510
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Great to speak to Politics.co.uk ahead of today’s Second Reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill. In the interview, I set out why this legislation matters, the issues we need to address, and why getting it right is so important. Read more👇 buff.ly/VlK6SXd
buff.ly
Lauren Edwards on assisted dying, the Parliament Act – and disappointment with Keir Starmer - Politics.co.uk
Lauren Edwards didn’t expect to be in this position. The Labour MP tasked with hauling the assisted dying bill back through the House of Commons was on a conference call about local government…
22910
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
My article in today's Guardian on why I am sending the assisted dying bill back to the Lords and why the will of the elected chamber – and a popular, compassionate piece of legislation – must not be frustrated again by a small minority of peers: buff.ly/RTe24vy
theguardian.com
I am sending the assisted dying bill back to the Lords – and this time, peers must do the right thing | Lauren Edwards
The will of the elected chamber – and a popular, compassionate piece of legislation – must not be frustrated again by a small minority of peers, says Labour MP for Rochester and Strood Lauren Edwards
1275
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
An excellent article from my Labour colleague Catherine Fookes in Labourlist today, explaining why she will be backing my assisted dying bill on Friday: buff.ly/B8BYZai
labourlist.org
‘Assisted dying: why the choice to die with dignity matters’ – LabourList
This Friday MPs will once again be voting on the assisted dying bill. I know many of my colleagues are feeling déjà vu from the…
12203
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
My Labour colleague Baroness Mattinson on the enduring public support for assisted dying and the democratic case for sending my Private Members Bill back to the House of Lords: www.politicshome.com/opinion/arti...
politicshome.com
The fresh vote on assisted dying is not only about life and death – it is about democracy
I have spent much of my working life listening to the public, watching opinions change, loyalties shift and issues once considered settled become f...
3167
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Two brave and dedicated campaigners who were denied the right to "go out on their own terms" as they wished but who never stopped fighting so that others could have that choice in future:
buff.ly
As assisted dying bill returns to Commons, families recall loved ones’ battle to ‘go out on own terms’
Elise Burns and Keith Williams appeared in campaign filmed by Rankin this year – both were denied their wishes, but their relatives are picking up the baton
2246
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Thank you to Humanists UK for hosting a meeting to brief MPs ahead of my bill on assisted dying returning to the House of Commons this Friday. One of the most important and progressive changes to the law we can make as Parliamentarians: buff.ly/iBSBKTE
0194
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/09/2026
It was lovely to meet Thomas Mayo last week. Thomas is a leading voice for indigenous rights in Australia. He co-led the campaign for Australia’s Voice referendum, speaking with thousands of Australians about the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
Two smiling adults standing side-by-side on a London sidewalk, posing outside a modern stone office building with the Gothic towers of the Palace of Westminster visible in the background.
051
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/09/2026
Over 100 members of the House of Lords are urging MPs to send my assisted dying bill back “as quickly as possible” we consider it this Friday. The cross-party list of signatories includes Neil Kinnock, Ruth Davidson, Harriet Harman, David Blunkett, Alf Dubs and David Willetts: buff.ly/HnPVRXT
observer.co.uk
We failed but will do better, say Lords requesting speedy...
More than 100 peers are urging MPs to send the bill back to them, citing a ‘filibuster’ by a minority in the Lords that ‘undermined trust’
34116
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 05/09/2026
A powerful read. Gaynor's dying wish was that her family carry on the fight to change the law and end the suffering created by the status quo: buff.ly/8kxrasF
mirror.co.uk
Gran, 63, flew to Swiss clinic to die after MND torture – leaving one last wish
EXCLUSIVE: Gaynor Griffiths was 'disappointed' the House of Lords blocked the assisted dying bill, and made her family promise to speak out on her behalf before her trip to Switzerland
0123
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
I’m looking for a Parliamentary Assistant or Senior Parliamentary Assistant to support my work in Westminster. This is a great opportunity to work in Parliament, so if you think you’re right for the role make sure you apply by 9th September: buff.ly/kGkDqNT
054
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Honoured to join the Royal Naval Association Chatham Branch at the Universities at Medway’s Drill Hall Library today and lay a wreath to honour the 130 sailors who lost their lives here in one of the first night-bombing raids in 1917. This important annual commemoration remembers their sacrifice.
061
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Help decide how £20m of funding is spent in Strood by joining our Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board. We’re recruiting voluntary Board members. No qualifications or previous board experience are needed, and full training and support will be provided. Apply or find out more: buff.ly/ZJF33tx
011
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Thank you to the local residents who came to my recent constituency surgery in Chatham to share their concerns and discuss how I can help. For updates on my monthly surgeries or if you have a concern or problem you’d like to raise with me, please contact my office or visit laurenedwards.uk
131
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Thoughtful words from Dr Simon Opher MP, drawing on his experience caring for people at the end of life. His perspective is a valuable contribution to the conversation about compassion, dignity and choice. Read the full article here: www.politicshome.com/opinion/arti...
politicshome.com
I've delivered palliative care as a doctor – we must give patients choice at the end of life
Doctors, like all medical professionals, experience death and dying on a regular basis. Each and every one of us wants to do the best for our patie...
092
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
From hearing directly from residents at my constituency surgery to discussing progress on the Youth Employment Hub, here are some highlights from this week.
141
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 28/08/2026
Here is my statement in response to the Prime Minister's letters to Ministers and Labour MPs ahead of the assisted dying bill debate.
1124
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Heartbreaking to see the loss of life and damage caused by the flash floods in Nepal. My thoughts are with everyone affected and those worried about family and loved ones. If you need advice, the FCDO can support. For further assistance, please get in touch with my office. buff.ly/SE3e75F
gov.uk
Nepal travel advice
FCDO travel advice for Nepal. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
072
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
I’m pleased to have helped a constituent who had been waiting months for her Civil Service pension finally receive the money she was owed. I’ll continue to help other constituents facing unacceptable delays with their pension settlements.
2101
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
I’ve written for KentOnline about why local people should have a real say in the future of our high streets. Our town centres are central to our communities. It’s important councils have more power to tackle the proliferation of vape and gambling shops we’ve seen in recent years. buff.ly/LyPxW51
premium.kentonline.co.uk
https://premium.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/we-re-taking-action-to-make-sure-people-have-proper-say-abo-344135/
141
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
I recently spoke to Politico about bringing back the assisted dying bill and how I’ve been influenced by similar legislation in Australia where I was born. Read more at the link below: www.politico.eu/article/uk-a...
politico.eu
The UK assisted dying bill is coming back. Its Labour champion is looking to Australia for inspiration.
Lauren Edwards’ campaign is trying to restart a stalled process to legalized assisted dying in England and Wales — and she’s taking cues from her native Australia.
0164
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
A fantastic launch of the Strood West “Pride in Place” fund at Bligh Way Park yesterday! Thank you to everyone who shared an idea. We had so many brilliant suggestions from local people on how to spend the £20m Government funding over the next ten years. Great to see so many families there too!
030
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
I was delighted to celebrate Medway Pride at Rochester Castle at the weekend. Thank you to everyone involved in putting it on, including all the events for Medway Pride Fringe at Intra. An important day celebrating Medway LGBTQIA+ creativity, culture, and community.
051
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
From discussing how we can tackle anti-social behaviour around Sun Pier to officially launching the £20m Pride in Place investment at a community fun day in Strood West, here are some highlights from last week.
131
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 22/08/2026
I’m proud to be attending Medway Pride today to celebrate and show my support for the LGBTQ+ community across Medway. 🌈 Pride is an important opportunity to celebrate equality, inclusion and the diversity within our community.
150
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 20/08/2026
Congratulations to everyone receiving their GCSE results today in Rochester and Strood! 🎉 A huge thank you too to all the teachers, support staff, parents and carers who have supported our young people every step of the way. ⭐
040
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
No one should have to sleep on the streets. That’s why I am pleased that this Labour Government is investing £442m to ensure every rough sleeper is offered a route off the streets by Christmas.
061
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
This Sunday, we’re bringing Love Strood to Bligh Way Park! Join us for activities and entertainment for all. There’ll also be an opportunity to share your ideas on how the £20m Pride in Place funding should be spent. 📅 Sunday 23 August 🕚 11am–4pm 📍 Bligh Way Park, Strood
031
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
Pleased that the Government is expanding free 24/7 bus travel for disabled people across England. I’ve heard from local people across Rochester and Strood about how important accessible and affordable bus travel is. This will make a real difference to people across our community.
253
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
A hugely welcome step forward for our region. I’ve been proud to support the campaign to bring international rail back to Kent, which would boost our local economy and make travel to the continent easier for residents. There’s still more work to do, but this is real progress. buff.ly/xxhcn2O
premium.kentonline.co.uk
https://premium.kentonline.co.uk/ashford/news/virgin-trains-granted-permission-to-run-through-channel-tunn-343991/
040
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
Congratulations to Umbrella Training on receiving their third Princess Royal Training Award! I’m proud to see a Medway apprenticeship provider recognised for creating opportunities for young people and supporting employers. Read the announcement: buff.ly/rOoNKHG
princessroyaltrainingawards.com
2026 Recipients | Princess Royal Training Awards
These organisations have shown a commitment to investing in their people.
041
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 14/08/2026
I was pleased to support a constituent whose Universal Credit was suspended, leaving her family without income. After raising the issue with the DWP and Medway Council, her payments were reinstated and additional support was secured to help with essential costs.
160
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
Pleased to have helped get clarity for residents in Borstal about the roadworks and what they can expect. I’ll continue to support residents and raise any concerns as the work progresses. Read the full article here: buff.ly/Wm0Rxdi
031
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
I’ve written for LabourList alongside Josh Dean MP and Perran Moon MP on the importance of flexible workspaces to small businesses and delivering growth in every postcode. We need a political solution to issues caused by changes to how they are valued and charged business rates. buff.ly/860NzwM
labourlist.org
‘Labour should not tax the spaces where small businesses are building Britain’s future’ – LabourList
We came into government with a clear promise: to be the party of business, working people and growth. Two years on, with a new leader,…
183
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
Congratulations to everyone receiving their results today in Rochester and Strood! 🎉 Whatever your results, there are options available. Staff at your school or college will be on hand to help you decide on your next steps. 🎓
040
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 12/08/2026
Our high streets, from Chatham and the Intra to Rochester and Strood, are the heart of our communities. Labour is giving councils the powers to tackle the spread of vape and betting shops and bring our high streets back to life.
040
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Elise Burns was one of the last people I spoke to before I reintroduced the assisted dying Bill. She spoke with warmth, humour and moral clarity. I’m grateful to KentOnline for sharing her story and the campaign she cared so deeply about. She will be greatly missed. Read here: buff.ly/GXMmn83
premium.kentonline.co.uk
https://premium.kentonline.co.uk/faversham/news/she-was-a-force-of-nature-tributes-paid-to-assisted-dying-343761/
0125
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
I’ve written for KentOnline following the conversation I had last month, with Medway Parents and Carers Forum, on improving education, skills and employment pathways for people with SEND. Read the full article here: sl1nk.com/9gb0syt
050
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
Helping residents with casework is a vital part of my role as your MP. I was pleased to support a constituent facing the risk of losing her job due to Home Office delays, helping her secure her visa fee waiver and remain in employment.
051
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
From discussing the future of local fire services to planning the next Pride in Place event, here are some highlights from last week.
150
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
An important intervention from two parliamentarians who both have backgrounds as GPs. buff.ly/oVzLuGx
labourlist.org
‘End-of-life care and choice are not in opposition to each other’ – LabourList
As GPs and as parliamentarians, we know firsthand that too many people struggle to access the health, care and support they need in this country.…
1137
Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
Good news for mental health support across the country and here in Rochester and Strood. The Government is opening 159 new mental health support centres, including a new Mental Health Emergency Department at Medway Maritime Hospital, helping local people access urgent mental health support faster.
160