21 October 2022

This week I joined the Deputy Leader, Councillor Lisa Evans, in a meeting with the Council's Managing Director, Julie Danks, and Director of Finance, Development and Regeneration, Garry Cummings, to get the latest update on the Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP).

In the afternoon I attended an event with Stockton Council's Learning and Skills Service to celebrate the achievements of adult learners in the Borough. There were 12 winners who shared their own experiences of overcoming barriers and achieving new skills.  It was a lovely event, full of   inspirational stories and outstanding achievements from learners of all ages from across the Borough. I'd advise anyone thinking of learning for employment, leisure or fun to take a look at the courses they offer.

On Tuesday I took advantage of a quiet day to catch up on important paperwork in the office.

Mid-week I Chaired the Health and Wellbeing Board and discussed topics including our Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) offer and an update on COVID Management.

On Thursday the Council's Corporate Management Team met with myself and all Cabinet members to give a briefing on the MTFP and to go through the forward plan for the coming months.

This morning I met virtually with executives from Asda as they gave an update on their plans for the Borough as they roll out smaller "Asda On the Move" convenience stores across the UK.

This weekend I'm looking forward to relaxing with my family. Middlesbrough are coming off the back of a 4-1 away win against Wigan on Wednesday as they prepare for a home match against Huddersfield on Saturday. I hope they can build on their winning form and come away from the match with three points as we start our climb up the table. I am also hopeful that they will announce a new manager this weekend to bring some stability to the team.