ABOUT MATT
I have always believed that our shared values and common goals far outweigh our differences. Regardless of how you voted, I am here to serve you. While we may not always agree, I am committed to ensuring your voice is heard in Parliament and that the Forest of Dean receives its fair share from the Government.
Since 2007, I have called the Forest of Dean home, it is where my wife grew up and where we have raised our two children. I am originally from Newport where I was raised by my grandparents. My passion for politics began with the 1997 elections, leading me to a career in public service.
At the age of 18, I joined the Police Force and served across three constabularies. A serious car accident sustained during my service ultimately led to my departure from policing; however, it opened new avenues of meaningful work. I have worked in Children’s Social Care in Gloucestershire, as a Tenancy Enforcement Caseworker in Social Housing, and as an Education Welfare Officer at Dene Magna School in Mitcheldean. These roles have provided me with insights into the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, reinforcing my resolve to make a positive impact in the lives of my constituents.
I have always been passionate about education, firmly believing in the importance of equal opportunities for all. Prior to my election, I served as a school governor and trustee for several schools, and was an active member of the Gloucestershire Schools Forum and a Local Leader in Governance.
Since entering Parliament, I have taken on a variety of roles and I am actively engaged in several All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) including Dairy Farming, Education, Farming, Water Pollution, and the Western Gateway. These further provide a chance to bring our local issues onto a national scale.
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I take pride in advocating for the Forest of Dean, securing vital local victories and raising key issues. From supporting dairy farmers to leading campaigns for better roads and reforms to gun licensing, I understand the unique challenges faced by our rural community.
My priorities are focused on driving real change here in the Forest of Dean—backing our local Constabulary to keep our community safe, protecting our rivers and environment, and working alongside the County Council to address highway issues and campaign for safety improvements. I am leading the efforts to rebuild Forest High School and I am fully dedicated to providing every child in our area with the opportunities and aspirations to succeed.
I am committed to safeguarding our rural way of life, tackling the Forest of Dean’s underfunding in local government, improving flood resilience, and expanding broadband and mobile coverage. I am relentless when advocating for the needs of our towns and villages, and will ensure they are prioritised at the highest levels of government.