iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

Earlier this week I went to a drop in session at Brimscombe Mill to provide support for older people, run by GOPA (Gloucestershire Older Persons Association). It was a busy day, with 20 stalls from organisations designed to help the older community such as Age UK. Thank you to everyone involved.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

Congratulations to Kirsty and Kevin and all at the Hoptician in Dursley. It was announced today that they have won CAMRA Cider and Perry Pub of the Year 2026, and quite right too. I'm thrilled for them.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Missed my friend the Stroud Lido lobster this morning, but I enjoy the tradition of the conference swim.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Missed my friend the Stroud Lido lobster this morning, but I enjoy the tradition of the conference swim.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

I don't think we need a Parliamentary Select Committee looking at the UK's selection for the Eurovision Song Contest. They've got much better things to do with their time. Anyway, the answer's obvious...

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Having worked in gynaecology - I know first hand the devastating effects of miscarriage. This is something that 1 in 5 women in the UK go through. I welcome the news that from April, those experiencing pregnancy loss will have a legal right to bereavement leave.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 12/09/2026

🧵 2/2 ..dynamic ecosystem. Like everywhere else they are recovering from a summer of extreme weather and there are lessons to be learned. I am looking forward to helping ensure a sustainable, resilient, diverse and nature rich future, with nature restoration firmly on the political agenda.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 12/09/2026

A visit to the WWT in Slimbridge is something I always enjoy, and while I was there last week we discussed their 'Parliamentary Wetlands Champions' initiative. Slimbridge is at the heart of the Severn Estuary, a globally important wetland environment, supporting a uniquely... 🧵 1/2

Dr Simon Opher MP exploring a wetland environment at Slimbridge with two colleagues. They are walking along a reedbed between two stretches of water.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

A personal statement about today's assisted dying vote.

The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill has just been voted down in the House of Commons.

In the last Parliament, MPs backed this legislation twice, only for its progress to be blocked by a handful of unelected Lords.

Today, we had the opportunity to put that right. To do so would have reflected the beliefs of the overwhelming majority of people in the country. To say that I am disappointed is an understatement.

Terminally ill people have been denied the right to choose how they die.

This campaign for a dignified death has been dealt a painful blow. But the case for choice at the end of life has not gone away and neither will those of us who believe in it. I look forward to continuing this important campaign.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

The troubles at Royal Mail are currently the biggest issue that people raise with me. The situation is untenable. Ofcom acknowledge that Royal Mail has failed to meet their targets & I believe we need to take it back into public ownership. Meantime, I will do what I can to improve local services.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

We heard a historic statement from the Foreign Secretary this afternoon. This is being backed up by comprehensive action. I will continue to speak out against Israel’s deliberate targeting of healthcare workers and look forward to meeting the Foreign Secretary to discuss this.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

This Friday, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill returns to the Commons after its progress was blocked in the Lords during the last parliamentary session. Read why I'll be voting yes once again: buff.ly/KTxsbED

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

This morning, I was delighted to put on record my thanks to our brilliant local community for their tireless work in securing the reopening of Stroud Lido. I’m looking forward to meeting with the Sports Minister to discuss my proposal for a National Lido Fund.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

With most schools going back today, let's take a moment to celebrate. Starting this term, 500,000+ more children nationally can get free school meals - that's more than 2500 children in and around Stroud. 🧵 1/2

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 01/09/2026

This week, the Representation of the People Bill returns to the Commons for its final stage. It's a genuinely transformative piece of legislation But, there are two amendments which I would like to see added to the Bill:

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

🧵 3/3 ... rein in their armed forces and do what we can to support those, like MAP, who help support the population there. buff.ly/cxZpZtN

buff.ly

We work to uphold Palestinian health and dignity.

Medical Aid for Palestinians | Home

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

🧵 2/3 ..conflicts (partly because of the density/age of population, but also the nature of the weaponry being used by the Israeli army). The casualty rate for healthcare staff (nearly 2000 dead) is x 75 more than in the war in Ukraine. We need to keep up the pressure on the Israeli government to

buff.ly

We work to uphold Palestinian health and dignity.

Medical Aid for Palestinians | Home

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/08/2026

This week I went to a screening of the film 'Life Support' at Stroud Brewery. After the film I spoke to Dr Nick Maynard (of Medical Aid for Palestine) about his experiences working in Gaza. The casualty rate for children (30,000 dead) in the in Gaza is more than x 4 that of other recent... 🧵 1/3

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

🧵 3/3 We now need to make sure that the community takes full advantage of the excellent care they offer, and I am writing to all GPs locally to ensure that they are aware of all the advantages that SMH offers mothers to be.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

🧵 2/3 ...for this. It helps provide a firm foundation on which to build and develop the services offered. The NHS Trust are consulting on a move to a new Community Birth Team which will support Stroud maternity to continue to offer deliveries in Stroud for the future.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 28/08/2026

This morning I met local NHS managers and representatives of Stroud Maternity Hospital. The good news is that the hospital has just been upgraded by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to 'good' (from 'requires improvement). Everyone at Stroud Maternity deserves our thanks and appreciation... 🧵 1/3

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

I was there and sang along. Loved it. Written on the same day as ‘I Will Always Love You’. And she did so much good in the world. Goodbye, please don't cry… I will always love you. Thanks Dolly.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

This is good. However, as the report says, there is more than £16bn still to be allocated outside London, and none of this is for the south west, but it is a step in the right direction. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...

bbc.co.uk

More than 70,000 social and affordable homes to be built across England over 10 years

Funding has been granted to Greater Manchester, the West Midlands and West Yorkshire as well as £6bn for London.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

I welcome confirmation that the government will set out sanctions against those involved in illegal settlement expansion. But, there is room to go further. I am urging the PM to: - Ban all trade with illegal settlements - Impose comprehensive sanctions - Recognise the UN’s findings on genocide

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

Celebrating the reopening of Stroud Lido this morning is the highlight of my summer. I'm looking forward to coming back for another swim soon, this time in my shorts! What a great result - thank you all!

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

I'm delighted that @dawnbutlerbrent.bsky.social campaign to protect and support our High Streets was supported by the new government yesterday. It's another small step towards revitalising local economies across the country.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 08/08/2026

The student loan system isn't fit for purpose, and I was one of many MPs of all parties who wrote to the Chancellor about it this week. It is just one of the many things that are very wrong with the higher education system in the UK. This is just the start of a long journey.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

For young people who regularly use any of the three stations in the constituency, this could save hundreds of pounds a year. Another small step to help take the pressure off household finances. Loads more to do though. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...

bbc.co.uk

Half-price rail travel extended to 18-year-olds

They'll be able to buy the 16-17 Saver railcard up until the day before they turn 18.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

If we're serious about rebuilding trust in politics, we need institutions that are representative, accountable and fit for the 21st century. I've joined colleagues in writing to the Prime Minister to call for a National Commission of citizens and experts to examine options for reform.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Adult social care is in desperate need of reform. I welcome Andy's decision to bring forward the independent commission into adult social care by a year and to begin cross-party talks today. This is the kind of politics we need: problem solving, not point scoring. We have to get this right.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 22/07/2026

Delighted that the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal has been awarded the prestigious The Green Flag Award (an international accreditation programme that recognises well managed parks and green spaces). Big thanks to everyone at the Canal and River Trust and their volunteers.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

I’m pleased that the new Prime Minister has scrapped VAT for electricity bills from October 1. Heating is a necessity - not a luxury - and should be taxed as such.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

The length and rate of paternity leave in England is far too low. The status quo means parental leave is a luxury that only the wealthiest in our society can afford. That’s why I am proud to be backing Movember’s campaign for extra time with dads. And good luck to the England team tonight!

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

🧵 2/2 ...health & immunisation rates. Key recommendations are: - improve the data available to work with - tackle health inequality (ie deprivation) - invest in the child health workforce We need greater action to ensure better health outcomes for children - and we need them now. buff.ly/P2OLRuB

buff.ly

State of Child Health 2026: England - Quick read

State of Child Health 2026 provides a clear and comprehensive overview of children’s health across the UK, analysing progress against 12 key child health indicators. This quick read report summarises…

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

This week I joined the Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health in Parliament to discuss their report 'State of Child Health 2026'. Children’s health across the UK continues to decline, especially in the poorest areas. The report highlighted 12 child health indicators including obesity... 🧵 1/2

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

I have a caseworker vacancy in my office in Stroud. www.w4mpjobs.org/JobDetails.a...

w4mpjobs.org

w4mp | The site for everyone working for an MP

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

My statement on the Labour leadership election:

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 08/07/2026

I know which one would get my vote. But you’ve got to feel for the people of Clacton.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 07/07/2026

The 4th episode of Simon Says Let's Talk is out now featuring the brilliant doctor and comic - Phil Hammond. There's definitely a parental advisory warning for this one! To listen, visit buff.ly/0QgcGtK

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 05/07/2026

Wishing a very happy 78th birthday to our NHS. Every day, doctors, nurses, paramedics, NHS staff and volunteers go above and beyond to care for us. Thank you for everything you do.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 05/07/2026

Dr Hussam Abu Safia has been held illegally by the IDF for more than 500 days. His detention is part of a wider IDF policy of targeting health workers. I have written to the Foreign Secretary to ensure that the British government do everything possible to secure his urgent release.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 03/07/2026

It's great that pubs have the chance to open late on Sunday. John Prescott would approve. Like me he used to play for the Parliamentary football team, by all accounts more enthusiastic than skilful. Hoping that England are both skilful and enthusiastic against Mexico.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 02/07/2026

We must abandon the idea that one size fits all. Different places have different needs. My piece for the New Statesman on the opportunity we now have to fashion an NHS that is rooted in the communities it serves. www.newstatesman.com/spotlight/he...

newstatesman.com

Devolution is the best medicine for the NHS

Manchesterism can deliver a place-based health service that reflects local requirements, while maintaining national standards

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

He set out an agenda for the largest increase in social housebuilding in the post-war era, public control of utilities and fostering a more inclusive political culture Andy said "Imagine growth in every postcode and hope in every heart." Well, imagine no more. Let’s make it happen.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 29/06/2026

I was in the audience whilst Andy set out his vision for the country. The biggest challenge facing Britain is the over-centralisation of power in Westminster and Whitehall. Real change means trusting local communities with the powers to shape their own futures. (1/2)

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 27/06/2026

As a GP I have completed hundreds of fit notes - but the reality is that they are just a tick-box exercise & do nothing to help get people back into work. We need a system that supports the patient, while recognising that in the majority of cases you are better off at work rather than at home.

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Simon Opher @simonforstroud.bsky.social · 27/06/2026

Diana Johnson is the Minister of State in the Department for Work/Pensions, and has one of the most interesting offices in Westminster. This week I met her and Pat McFadden, the department's Secretary of State, to discuss the reforms necessary to make the fit note system work for everyone. 🧵 1/2

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Reposted by Simon Opher

Clive Lewis MP @labourlewis.bsky.social · 26/06/2026

Great to hear that after our pressure the government has confirmed the re-opening of the medical evacuation scheme for critically injured children in Gaza. Earlier this month, I co-signed an open letter coordinated by @simonforstroud.bsky.social urgently calling for the government to take action.

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