Around once a month, Luke Pollard MP, holds a ‘Politics & Pastries’ event, a round table discussion that brings together stakeholders from different communities in Plymouth to discuss what their experiences are and how Luke might be able to help as their local MP.  

The latest session was held on 8th September in the Access Plymouth offices in the city centre. This month, Luke brought together representatives from organisations that support people with disabilities from across the city, from voluntary organisations to representatives from University Hospitals Plymouth, with a focus on how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting those with disabilities.  

At Politics & Pastries, Luke gets the opportunity to hear from those that are in touch with so many residents of Plymouth and are very well informed about themes and issues affecting the city, this time with a focus on what is impacting many of our most vulnerable people.  

Issues that came up centred around how the cost of living is impacting on food and fuel poverty for vulnerable folk, as well as the cost of transport for hospital visits and the cost of parking for carers. These issues can exacerbate existing physical and mental health issues and can increase isolation, there were some excellent examples of what local and national organisations here in Plymouth are doing to support this community.  

Access Plymouth is an excellent example of this, with low-cost transport provided for those with disabilities, from their care car service to their wheelchair and mobility scooter hire in the city centre. They kindly hosted this round table event in their great city centre offices.  

Luke said:

      “I am really pleased at the outcome of today’s meeting, we need more joint working between groups that serve disabled people in Plymouth.  

       I hold these events on a monthly basis, not just as a talking shop, but to make on the ground change in Plymouth.” 

If you are in need of support with any of these issues, please contact Luke at luke.pollard.mp@parliament.uk and the team will be happy to see what they can do to help, as well as signpost you to resources near you.