Representing Edinburgh North and Leith, the place I call home, is the honour of my life. After twelve months of hard work, learning, and listening, I want to share some reflections on this year and what lies ahead.

Getting Started

My focus has always been clear: to bring the voices of Edinburgh North and Leith to the heart of government. Over the past year, I have built relationships across parties and committees, learned the ropes to pass legislation, and worked to understand the issues that matter most to our community.

Being an MP is about more than debates and votes in Westminster. It is about the day-to-day work: meeting constituents, helping them navigate government services, championing local causes, and delivering change. Whether it is supporting a family with housing or pushing for better local infrastructure, my office is here for you.

Championing Edinburgh North and Leith’s Priorities

Edinburgh North and Leith is a vibrant and diverse community, with a proud industrial past, from the Port of Leith and manufacturing to creative arts, hospitality, technology, and multinational companies like Diageo. This rich mix of businesses is a real strength, and I am proud to support it every day. We are also seeing exciting growth in film and television studios and theatres, putting Leith on the map as a hub for creative production, adding to our city’s world-class reputation in the arts.

I have strongly advocated for the GB Energy headquarters to be based in Leith, placing our community at the heart of the renewables transition. This would help tackle climate change, create sustainable local jobs, and position Leith as a leader in the green economy. Over the year, I have campaigned for affordable housing, better public transport, and more investment in local jobs. Too many people in our community face housing insecurity, and I have been vocal about the urgent need for more council homes and tenant protections.

I have raised these issues in Parliament, highlighting Edinburgh North and Leith’s needs in debates and committee meetings. But real change requires partnerships. That is why I work closely with local organisations, businesses, and the council to find practical solutions that make a difference. Working together to deliver growth and prosperity for businesses, reduce poverty, and ensure that all our citizens don’t just survive but can thrive.

Eradicating Childhood Poverty

Tackling childhood poverty has been a core mission. In Parliament, I have pointed out that one in six children in my constituency grow up in poverty, a statistic we must change.

I have pressed the government to consider removing the two-child cap on benefits, a policy affecting 330 households in Leith alone. While it is not a cure-all, removing this cap would relieve financial strain on many families. I have also called for increased investment in affordable housing and employment support. These are vital steps to lift families out of poverty and give children the opportunities they deserve.

Ending Violence Against Girl

Ending violence against girls is another issue close to my heart. I recently questioned the Home Secretary on how the government plans to work with devolved nations to meet targets aimed at reducing violence against women and girls. Violence against women affects children’s life chances; protecting women ensures better outcomes for children. A coordinated UK-wide approach is essential to equip all regions to tackle this pressing problem that is sadly getting worse.

I have also raised concerns about the demand driving sex trafficking, an issue that often goes unseen. Bringing this to light is the first step toward a society where women and girls can live free from fear and exploitation.

Listening and Learning

Listening has been key to my work. Whether it is climate change or local schools, I want your voices to be heard loud and clear. Democracy must be accessible to all, and I am fortunate to have been selected to put forward a Private Member’s Bill which, if passed through the Lords, will align absent, online, and proxy voting applications across the UK.

Looking Ahead

While proud of what we have achieved, there is so much more to do. The challenges we face, from economic uncertainty to climate change, require bold ideas and sustained effort.

In the months ahead, I will continue to push for policies that support working families, protect our environment, and invest in public services. Ensuring Edinburgh North and Leith gets the funding it deserves remains my top priority.

If you ever want to get in touch, share your thoughts, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. Thank you for your support and for giving me the opportunity to serve our community of Edinburgh North and Leith in Parliament.