Matt Bishop MP
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mattbishopmp.bsky.social
Matt Bishop MP
@mattbishopmp.bsky.social
Member of Parliament for the Forest of Dean Constituency
I am proud to say that, alongside Harry’s Pals, yesterday saw the launch of my new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) focused on securing emotional support for parents and carers of children with life-limiting or life-changing conditions.
January 28, 2026 at 2:21 PM
Today, we remember the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and all victims of the Nazi regime and of genocides throughout history.

As we mark Holocaust Memorial Day, we honour those who were lost, and we recommit to building a brighter future.
January 27, 2026 at 6:00 PM
It was great to attend Age UK’s ‘Ending Long A&E Waits and Corridor Care’ reception this week.

They were able to share how A&Es are performing in our local area, and the steps that can be taken to help reduce long A&E waits and eradicate Corridor Care for good.
January 24, 2026 at 1:35 PM
Earlier this week, I spoke in the chamber and asked Jake Richards MP, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice, about the proposed mandatory life sentence for those who murder police officers, prison officers, and probation officers.

youtu.be/-cdf3uT6nV0
Sentencing Bill: Consideration of lords amendments
YouTube video by Matt Bishop MP
youtu.be
January 23, 2026 at 3:55 PM
I’ve heard from people across the Forest of Dean who feel their voices haven’t always been heard. Baroness Amos is inviting women and families to share experiences—good or bad—to shape national recommendations.

Take part here 👉 www.matneoinv.org.uk/call-for-evi...
January 21, 2026 at 5:09 PM
Great to meet with Niall from Fair Game UK last week to chat about how I can support their mission for a fairer future for football.

I’m really looking forward to supporting their cause and helping ensure football is a fair game for all, with community at its heart.
January 20, 2026 at 2:53 PM
Yesterday, I met with local hospitality businesses from across the Forest to discuss the real challenges facing the sector.

Hospitality is vital to our communities — creating jobs, supporting the local economy and bringing people together.
January 17, 2026 at 6:04 PM
Yesterday I attended a drop-in event supporting Hugh’s Law, part of the Parents Deserve Better campaign by It’s Never You. It calls for paid leave, mental health support and help for families of seriously ill children.

I signed in support and met others backing this vital cause.
January 15, 2026 at 1:54 PM
Read my column in this week’s Forester here 👉 www.theforester.co.uk/.../the-view....

This week, I talk about the issues I’ve been focusing on in the first couple of weeks of 2026—from roads and transport improvements to supporting SEND families with an upcoming event.
www.theforester.co.uk
January 14, 2026 at 12:57 PM
I am really pleased that the Under-Secretary for Health and Social Care, Ashley Dalton MP, agreed to meet with me and the founder of Harry’s Pals, Hayley, to discuss support for those families both nationally and in the Forest of Dean.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOZt...
Question to the Under-Secretary for Health and Social Care, Ashley Dalton MP
YouTube video by Matt Bishop MP
www.youtube.com
January 13, 2026 at 4:30 PM
Huge thanks to Mrs Burke and the staff and pupils at Yorkley and Parkend Primary for welcoming me last week.

From outdoor learning to online safety, it was great to see shared values, inspiring spaces and happy, confident children who genuinely enjoy learning.

Hope to visit again soon!
January 12, 2026 at 12:17 PM
So many of you and your families rely on Lydney Dial-a-Ride’s essential transport service.

I was grateful to meet Louise and the team and hear about their incredible work across the Forest of Dean, providing accessible, door-to-door transport and keeping our communities connected.
January 10, 2026 at 5:13 PM
I want to reaffirm my commitment to landlords across the Forest of Dean: I will support you in every way I can.

Please do reach out to me at matt.bishop.mp@parliament.uk so we can discuss how I can best support the hospitality sector in the Forest of Dean.
January 9, 2026 at 4:32 PM
Register your interest: matt.bishop.mp@parliament.uk
January 7, 2026 at 3:44 PM
⚡Great opportunity for young people⚡

National Grid is offering a range of paid apprenticeships across engineering, business, digital and more, with on-the-job training and recognised qualifications.

Find out more and apply here 👉 jobs.nationalgrid.com/uk/early-car...
January 6, 2026 at 2:40 PM
Have your say on fire & rescue services in the Forest of Dean 🔥🚒

GFRS is consulting on its Community Risk Management Plan 2026–2030, covering fire cover, flooding, wildfires and use of resources.

Share your views by Sunday 8th Feb: haveyoursaygloucestershire.uk.engagementhq.com
January 5, 2026 at 2:54 PM
Happy New Year to everyone across the Forest of Dean!

As we begin this new year, I’m setting out my priorities and what I’ll be working on for the Forest of Dean in the coming months.

I’m committed to serving the Forest of Dean and making sure our voice is heard in Westminster.

Happy new year!
January 1, 2026 at 12:10 AM
Just before Christmas, I met some sixth form students at Dene Magna. It was great to talk about future projects and hear what really matters to them.

Visiting schools is important to me, and I’m keen to build this further into 2026. Thank you to all for taking the time to chat with me.
December 29, 2025 at 1:02 PM
Challenge comes in different forms.

By working constructively with the NFU, CLA and colleagues, we secured a key change to IHT thresholds — doubling them so small family farms won’t pay IHT on estates up to £5m. That’s how behind-the-scenes work delivers results.

www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-...
Government confirms inheritance tax thresholds to be raised
Following a long-fought campaign by the NFU, the government has confirmed the threshold for inheritance tax changes due to come into force next April will be raised to £2.5 million.
www.nfuonline.com
December 23, 2025 at 11:48 AM
Pleased to celebrate the delivery of 37 new affordable homes in the Forest of Dean 🏡 This project shows what’s possible when partners work together to meet local housing needs, delivering safe, affordable homes to rent or buy through Shared Ownership and supporting strong, sustainable communities.
December 23, 2025 at 10:24 AM
🥊 It’s been a week since Lydney Boxing Club’s annual show. Some of my office were lucky enough to attend and, once again, Bryan and the team delivered a great night packed with talent. They play a vital role for young people across the Forest of Dean, and I’ll continue supporting them into 2026!
December 20, 2025 at 7:20 PM
🎶 Last night I was grateful to be invited to Five Acres’ Christmas Carol Service at Coleford Baptist Church.

With traditional carols, brilliant performances and voices from across our community, it was a wonderful celebration of the Forest of Dean and our strong community spirit.
December 19, 2025 at 8:15 PM
🥧 Last night I hosted my Mince Pies with Matt evening and it was great to chat with so many of you. I met residents, veterans, police officers and landlords to discuss local issues and concerns.

Thanks to everyone who came along—more events coming in the new year.
December 18, 2025 at 10:21 AM
I’ve written to the Home Secretary to support plans to strengthen the response to violence against women and girls.

Specialist sexual offence teams, investment in victim support, and tools like the Hollieguard app are steps that can improve outcomes.

Victims must always be at the heart of justice.
December 16, 2025 at 6:58 PM
✨ Excited to announce the winner and runners-up of my Christmas Card Competition!

🥇 Willoughby from Huntley C of E Primary

🥈 Rhys from Heart of the Forest & Ronnie from Coalway Junior

🎄 Huge thanks to all schools, children, and sponsors Puzzlewood & Suntory!
December 15, 2025 at 4:20 PM