26 July 2024

This week started with a meeting of Tees Valley Leaders. This monthly meeting gives each of the local authority leaders the chance to discuss what's happening in their area and share successes.

Following that I met with Geraldine Brown, the Council's Head of Policy, Development and Public Affairs, to get an update on the work she is doing.

Later that morning I attended a governor's meeting at Norton Primary. I enjoy my role as governor at the school and think it's a great way to help shape the future of young people in our communities.

On Tuesday I attended the launch of a new wellbeing hub which is open for residents who need advice and support with their wellbeing. Anybody can drop into the Hub which is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm in Wellington Square.

Later in the afternoon there was an informal meeting of Cabinet members so we could catch up following a formal Cabinet meeting last week.

Mid-week a full Council meeting was held at the Baptist Tabernacle in Stockton. Part of the agenda covered enhanced support for our Care Experienced Young People - a group of people in the Borough who we do our very best to help, and we are looking to enhance our service offer to these individuals.

Yesterday I caught up with various other Councillors to discuss issues in their respective wards.

This morning I attended the North East Regional Employers' Organisation's (NEREO's) annual meeting virtually. NEREO is an important network for local authorities to share best practice, discuss regional issues and have open conversations with each other surrounding employment and retention.

This weekend I will be spending time with my family and resting. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games open this weekend and I'd like to wish Team GB the best of luck. The Olympics are always a fantastic spectacle of people from all over the globe coming together to put on a show and compete to be the best in the world.