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Medway Liberal Democrats @medwaylibdems.bsky.social · 10/10/2025

Rochester & Strood Labour Party @rslabour.bsky.social · 11/10/2025

We are saddened and angered to report our offices were attacked overnight on Thursday. Please share any information concerning this vile act with Kent Police Please see our full statement below and on Facebook facebook.com/share/p/1BXNPe…

We are deeply saddened and angered to report that the Rochester and Strood Labour Party office was attacked overnight on Thursday 9th October.

The CLP strongly condemns this cowardly act. Our office is run and staffed entirely by local volunteers people who give up their own time to serve our community, support residents, and promote democracy through peaceful and respectful means. No one who volunteers their time for the good of others should ever feel unsafe or targeted for their beliefs.

In a functioning democracy, disagreements between political parties must be resolved at the ballot box or through respectful and open debate, not through acts of intimidation or violence. Across the UK and around the world, we are witnessing a troubling rise in political hostility, and we must stand together to unequivocally reject violence in all its forms.

Thankfully, no one was injured during this incident. The matter has been reported to Kent Police and the local authorities for investigation. If you have any information that could assist, please contact Kent Police.

We remain united, resilient, and committed to the values of democracy, fairness, and community that underpin our movement.

Stephen McCormack
Chair, Rochester and Strood Constituency Labour Party
On behalf of the CLP Executive Committee

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 05/08/2025

Fantastic evening with Medway Victory Sea Cadets at Chatham Maritime. Great to see young people learning water safety, building confidence, and having fun. Thanks to CO Trevor Eaton and team! If you’d like to get involved, please visit: buff.ly/13ATG9Y

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 25/07/2025

💧 It’s time to fix our broken water system. For 30 years, companies like Southern Water have prioritised profit over people. Now, Ofwat is being scrapped. A new, stronger regulator will hold polluters to account - protecting our environment, our bills, and our local rivers like the Medway.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 19/06/2025

Proud to back the Crime & Policing Bill - a big win for safer streets and justice for victims. The Bill cracks down on knife crime, drink spiking, and more. New powers to tackle nuisance bikes and anti-social behaviour – Respect Orders will help stop reoffending and create safer communities.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 11/06/2025

Great to host Visit Kent’s annual Parliament reception last week. Spoke about Kent & Medway’s vibrant visitor economy & the need to keep working together - especially on restoring international rail in Kent! Huge thanks to Deidre & team. Excited for what’s ahead under incoming CEO Jo Richardson.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/06/2025

Many in Rochester & Strood have raised concerns about proposed PIP/benefit changes. I’m asking the Govt to rethink some of the proposed changes. Reforms must protect people's dignity &independence. You can read my full statement here:

buff.ly

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/06/2025

Delighted to chair a cross-party discussion on building a workforce to power the UK’s Industrial Strategy. Thanks to the Industry & Parliament Trust, and to Erica Chamberlain (Careers & Enterprise Co) & Verity Davidge (Make UK) for their great insights.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/06/2025

Today I visited Medway Foodbank to discuss my strong opposition to the Government's PIP reforms and how we can tackle the worrying rates of poverty amongst carers. Thanks to Mike, Ruth and their team, including many volunteers, who help so many people in my constituency.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/06/2025

Thanks to Harry for giving me a tour of the fantastic new Lake View Lodge care home in Halling. It was lovely to meet some of the residents and see what fantastic facilities (and views!) they have right next to St Andrew's Lake.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/06/2025

Lovely visit to Bishopscourt in Rochester today for the National Garden Scheme. Many thanks to the Bishop of Rochester for his informative talk about the history of the house. And excellent tea and cake and inspiration for my garden. I'm off to order a Queen of Sweden rose ...

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/06/2025

Earlier this week, I met the fantastic new MHS Homes CEO Marie-Claire Delbrouque. Marie-Claire grew up in social housing and helped start a homeless charity. Her commitment to making sure everyone has a warm and safe home was evident throughout our chat and I look forward to working with her.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 28/05/2025

Rochester & Strood is full of history – now you can help celebrate it! Nominate a local person for a National Blue Plaque by 10 July. If you have a personal hero or a passion for a story or event, don’t miss the chance to bring a new iconic plaque to your area. Submit here: buff.ly/eDY2VTX

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 14/05/2025

Another great APPG meeting on Digital Money and Markets. Fascinating presentations on tokenisation helping small businesses with faster payments and better processes. Key for boosting UK economic growth. Extra thanks to Dr Vahid Mirzabeiki (University of Surrey) and Muhammad Tanoli (Portdex).

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 15/05/2025

Great to attend the launch of a new Unison report setting out their vision for the future of Further Education. Colleges are key to creating economic growth in all parts of the UK, and staff in the sector, including support staff, need fair pay and terms and conditions.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 15/05/2025

Yesterday, we had a productive meeting of the APPG on Fair Growth in the Thames Estuary, where I raised the importance of the Gridlink interconnector project between France and my constituency in ensuring we meet our climate change and economic growth goals. (1/2)

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 16/05/2025

I’m pleased to see the return of Visa’s Let’s Celebrate Towns Awards—an excellent opportunity to showcase the incredible work happening across Rochester and Strood. Towns can win £20,000 for a local initiative. Submit your nomination by June 8th: buff.ly/62zUeH3

visaeupromotions.com

Lets Celebrate Towns

People up and down the country are talking about towns, where the majority of us live, work and raise our families. Against a challenging backdrop, there is a lot of positive momentum behind creating…

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 16/05/2025

A busy and productive week representing Rochester and Strood - both at home and in Westminster. From strengthening border security and exploring digital money, to backing green energy and celebrating local charities. Thank you to everyone I met and worked with this week. Read more below:

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 17/05/2025

Today is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia & Biphobia. Love is love, and everyone deserves respect and safety. I stand with the LGBTQ+ community against hatred and discrimination - let’s continue to build communities centred on tolerance, diversity and inclusion.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025

Last Thursday, on VE Day, we remembered the courage and sacrifice of those who secured peace in Europe 80 years ago and took a moment to reflect on the importance of peace in an increasingly uncertain world. (1/4)

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025

Great to meet Kieran from Rubbish Snooker during the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations at the Royal Engineers Museum last week. He takes litter from Medway's streets and turns it into art - including this brilliant bottlecap Spitfire! Check out his website: buff.ly/ZTbJJKB

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025

Many households in Medway are feeling the pressure of the cost of living. Medway Council’s Household Support Fund offers government-backed help with essentials like school uniforms, energy or water bills, and other vital needs. You don’t need to be on benefits to apply. Apply here: buff.ly/xqjW0ZP

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 08/05/2025

Last Tuesday, I asked Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, about Gridlink, a proposed energy connection from Kingsnorth in my constituency across to France. This connection, which could be ready by 2030, will help us meet our clean energy goals. (1/2)

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 08/05/2025

Excellent roundtable last Friday with a range of businesses from across the construction sector at Waterfront UTC. University Technical Colleges like Waterfront provide hugely valuable technical education opportunities, as well as giving students great career advice and work-readiness skills. (1/2)

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 09/05/2025

It was great to join the New Statesman's Energy and Climate Change Conference to speak on the green skills panel. Green skills can play a big part in regenerating areas like Rochester & Strood, especially through big infrastructure projects like the Lower Thames Crossing.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 09/05/2025

Great to speak alongside Skills Minister Jacqui Smith at the Lifelong Education Institute’s 2025 conference. I spoke on how the Growth & Skills Levy and Skills England can simplify the system and expand opportunities. Thanks to Dame Ann Limn for chairing a great panel!

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/05/2025

Thanks to Judy and Richard for inviting me to hear more about Everycare Medway and Swale, based on Medway City Estate. Care providers like Everycare offer a crucial service in an increasingly complex environment. Joined-up thinking between the care sector & the NHS is vital to improve care locally.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/05/2025

Thank you to the Innovate Finance Global Summit for having me on their panel last week. It was great to discuss the future of global digital money and to be on the same stage where earlier that day the Chancellor announced the Gov will be bringing in laws to regulate cryptoassets - a welcome change.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 10/05/2025

Popped along to the Sun Pier House open day for their fantastic new accessible creative space. It was great to catch up with Hannah and see what a fantastic community hub the team are building!

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 12/05/2025

Wishing the Buddhist community in Rochester, Strood and around the world a reflective and meaningful Vesak. May today inspire compassion, wisdom and inner peace for us all.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/05/2025

From voting to give fans more control over their football team, to discussing the future of digital money, to meeting with local NHS leaders and businesses, last week was filled with lots of opportunities to speak and listen to experts in so many different fields. Read some of my highlights below!

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Vince Maple @vincemaple.bsky.social · 22/04/2025

A real privilege to give the opening remarks as we today start on our collective journey to deliver a Medway Marmot Place tackling health inequalities. Thanks to Michael Marmot for his support and outstanding keynote speech this morning #ProudToBeMedway

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 23/04/2025

Happy Saint George’s Day everyone!

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 20/04/2025

I hope everyone in Rochester & Strood, & across the UK, is enjoying a restful Easter Sunday with friends and family. Whether you're on an egg hunt, having a Sunday roast, or just relaxing at home, take this time to unwind and cherish moments with loved ones. Wishing you all a joyful Easter!

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 04/04/2025

However, I wanted to share the link below, which will help businesses understand what the US decision means for them: Great .Gov outlines the current rules tailored to the type of product/service you are selling and is updated in response to any changes. You can find out more here: buff.ly/xgvtLE8

buff.ly

Export support for UK businesses – great.gov.uk

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 04/04/2025

I know the 10% tariffs announced by the US last night may worry some business owners in Rochester and Strood. The Government is working to get a trade deal with the US to reduce red tape and help trade across the Atlantic. (1/2)

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 04/04/2025

On Monday, the Government announced funding for the Medway Estuary and Swale Strategy as part of their significant investment in flood defences. These steps will protect our homes, businesses, and natural landscape from extreme weather. Safeguarding our community for future generations.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 06/04/2025

Great to see that the UK is to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup (if more than a bit depressing that we were the only bid):https://buff.ly/PU1q3XN

buff.ly

Women’s World Cup: UK to host 2035 tournament

Manchester United’s new 100,000-seat stadium among possible venues after Fifa confirmed UK as sole bidder for 2035 Women’s World Cup, with US to host in 2031

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 07/04/2025

I was pleased to support my Labour colleagues Yuan Yang and Abtisam Mohamed today who were unacceptably detained and refused entry to Israel. It is disappointing that the Opposition was once again unable to put aside party politics on this issue.

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MPs expelled by Israel receive show of support from Commons colleagues

Ministers and more than 70 MPs attended photo call with Yuan Yang and Abtisam Mohamed whose travel ban was called unacceptable

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

On Thursday, it was great to be back at Ascend Co-working in the Pentagon to meet with the Crime Partnership for Chatham. Thanks to Chatham Town Centre Forum for organizing, and to the police leaders, councillors, and businesses who took part in the efforts to make Chatham town centre safer.

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

Almost 1m young people in the UK are not in education, employment, or training. I’m happy to see the Skills Commission I co-chair referenced in the article. We have crucial work ahead to make education accessible & equip people with skills for our evolving economy. Well worth a read:

buff.ly

Whitehall has left generation of teenagers with no hope, says Andy Burnham

Greater Manchester mayor says number of young people not in education, employment or training has reached unacceptable levels

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Vince Maple @vincemaple.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

On the 191 heading over to Hundred of Hoo Academy who are kindly hosting tonight’s Medway Matters Live. Thanks to all those who have booked to attend and hard working Medway Council officers who are both staffing stalls and have organised tonight #ProudToBeMedway

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Vince Maple @vincemaple.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

Congrats to @localauthority.news on the launch of their new publication #ProudToBeTheOther84%

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

Happy International Children's Book Day! To mark the event, why not visit your local library/bookshop and pick out a new book to enjoy with your family? Let's make reading a joyful and cherished part of our lives.

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Rochester & Strood Labour Party @rslabour.bsky.social · 30/03/2025

Wishing a blessed Eid to everyone celebrating in Rochester & Strood

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Lauren Edwards MP @laurenedwardsmp.bsky.social · 23/03/2025

Great to be out with Rochester and Strood Labour members supporting colleagues in Chatham and Aylesford ahead of the KCC elections in May.

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