This Summer, Abena Oppong-Asare, MP for Erith and Thamesmead, announces she will once again be hosting her annual Campaign Summer School, and encourages young people interested in making a difference in their community to sign up now.
Taking place from Wednesday 23rd to Friday 25th July 2025, the school is designed to empower and inspire young people between the ages of 16 and 18 from the local area to engage in politics and campaigning.
The Campaign Summer School offers first-hand insight into the exciting world of political campaigning – bringing together the expertise of veteran political activists, local and national journalists, and partner organisations.
At this jam-packed 3-day event, young people will have the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference within their community and learn how to make their voice heard in our democracy.
The Summer School programme is expected to include sessions from:
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of Greenwich Council
Christine Quigley, Vice President of Crestview Strategy
Yeukai Taruvinga, Chief Executive of Active Horizons
Google Digital Garage Team
Local and National journalists
Applications are now open for those interested in signing up. The link can be found on Abena’s website here and the deadline to sign up is Saturday 31 May 2025.
Abena Oppong-Asare MP said:
“As the first female government minister of Ghanaian descent I know firsthand that whether you’re dealing with environmental issues, crime, or education, effective campaigning is the key to influencing and challenging those in power.
“I am determined to do all I can to empower our young people to be the change they want to see in the world.
“That’s why I am so exciting to launch my Campaign Summer School 2025, taking place this July, and I encourage everyone aged between 16 and 18 living locally to sign up now! See you there.”
Testimonies from past Campaign Summer School alumni:
“We all left empowered and with our minds stimulated. The emphasis on the importance of thinking critically about the world around us, and how to take action in orchestrating the change we want to see.”
“It was an amazing opportunity, it made it clear what we as young people can do to make a change, it inspired me to start a campaign and campaign to change something I am passionate about.”
“It was eye-opening and inspirational and made me want to do more for society.”
https://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Summer-school-banner-2023-2-3.png6751200Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2025-04-04 10:15:022025-04-04 10:50:29Applications now open for Abena’s Campaign Summer School 2025
This month, we celebrated International Women’s Day 2025 – an important occasion for girls and young women across our country and the world. It’s a time to reflect on the significant progress made toward gender equality and to renew our commitment to creating equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender or background.
This year was particularly special as we celebrated the remarkable progress in electing women to the House of Commons. In last year’s election, a record-breaking 263 women were elected, making up an all-time high of 40 percent.
To mark the day, I was proud to stand alongside my fellow women MPs in the House of Commons chamber. I also posted a video on the day, which you can see here.
Greenwich Mummies Forum visit on IWD
Lovely to join the Greenwich Mummies Forum at the Plumstead Centre as part of their festivities celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD). It was inspiring to hear from our local mums and shine a spotlight on their incredible strength.
Visit to Lessness Heath Primary School
Enjoyed my visit to Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere, meeting Headteacher Miss Bolton, Assistant Headteacher Mr Jackson and Primary First Trust’s CEO Miss Hamilton.
It was also fantastic to tour the school, meet the wonderful students during their lunch break, and even wish the school dog, Lola, a very happy birthday!
Visit to Oscar Mayer in Erith
Pleased to visit Oscar Mayer on Erith Marshes this month. I had a productive discussion with Alex James and his team on their role locally and the challenges they face. I’m committed to supporting our local businesses while also securing the strongest workers’ rights in a generation.
Ghana’s 68th Independence Day Parliament Event
I was thrilled to attend Ghana’s 68th Independence Day celebration reception in Parliament, hosted by Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP. It was a fantastic event, joined by Lord Paul Boateng, the Minister for Africa, Lord Collins, and many other important voices from the Ghanaian community here in the UK.
As the first female Minister of Ghanaian heritage, it meant a lot to be part of this celebration and represent our constituency, which has the largest African descendant population in the country. It was a great chance to shine a light on the incredible contributions of Ghanaians in the UK and come together for such a special occasion!
Usdaw ‘Breaking Down Barriers’ event in Parliament
Pleased to join members of Usdaw’s Breaking Down Barriers programme during their visit to the Houses of Parliament.
It was good to see the important work Usdaw is doing to strengthen representation in union roles, workplaces across the country, and in politics. The group was full of impressive individuals from all walks of life who asked thoughtful questions.
Women’s History Month in Parliament
This March, we’re also celebrating Women’s History Month. It was great to join fellow Members of Parliament at the House of Commons Speaker’s reception to mark the occasion and reflect on the progress made by women in the UK.
Update on the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’
This month, the Government has continued delivering on its ‘Plan for Change’. I’m pleased to see the Education Secretary recently launch the initial rollout of free breakfast clubs, benefiting children across England, including Jubilee Primary School and Willow Bank Primary School in our constituency of Erith and Thamesmead.
I also backed the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill, which will cut school costs for families, drive up standards, and ensure no child falls through the cracks. Additionally, Parliament approved the Employment Rights Bill, the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation – strengthening sick pay, banning exploitative contracts, and protecting against unfair dismissal.
Finally, I welcome the Government’s “Pathways to Work” Green Paper, which includes proposals to tackle inactivity and improve employment support for disabled people and those with health conditions. While I recognise the sensitivity of this issue, I believe these crucial steps will contribute to creating a fairer system that enables individuals to live with dignity and independence.
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
I’ve been excited to carry on my work in the Cabinet Office this month. I began by attending and speaking at the opening of Lloyd’s of London’s ‘Life in the Sun’s Atmosphere’ exhibition. I spoke about what the Government is doing to build a more resilient society. Find out more here.
During Cabinet Office Questions, I was pleased to update the House of Commons on the Government’s emergency alert system to keep the public alert and safe as quickly as possible during emergencies.
Additionally, it was important and moving to join Cabinet Office colleagues and other Members of Parliament to commemorate the COVID-19 Day of Reflection – marking five years on from the start of the pandemic. It was a time to remember those we lost and honour the sacrifices made by so many.
Furthermore:
Greater London UNISON Regional Women’s Committee Networking Day – Great to speak with some amazing UNISON women about my background and path in politics.
Women in Westminster Reception – Lovely to join this important reception in Parliament to celebrate many successful and hard-working women in Westminster.
Ash Wednesday – Wishing everyone in Erith and Thamesmead a blessed 40-day period of Lent, which began at the start of this month on Ash Wednesday.
Happy Holi – Hope everyone who is celebrating a very happy Holi!
Ramadan Mubarak – A very peaceful Ramadan to those who observe.
Happy St Patrick’s Day – Hope everyone had a fantastic St Patrick’s Day this year!
Happy St David’s Day – Happy St David’s Day to everyone who celebrated!
Happy World Book Day – Was good to mark this day and celebrate the work of local teachers, librarians and parents who are getting more children every year into reading.
Stay updated on social media
For regular updates on my activities, follow me on Twitter (@abenaopp), Facebook (Abena Oppong-Asare MP, Erith and Thamesmead), and Instagram (abena.oppongasare.mp).
Enjoyed my visit to Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere, meeting Headteacher Miss Bolton, Assistant Headteacher Mr Jackson and Primary First Trust’s CEO Miss Hamilton.
It was also fantastic to tour the school, meet the wonderful students during their lunch break, and even wish the school dog, Lola, a very happy birthday!
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Had a great time visiting Lessness Heath Primary School in Belvedere last Friday!
It was a pleasure to attend the relaunch of education classes at the Vaughan Mills Education Centre on Woodlands Farm, alongside Shooters Hill Councillors, Ivis Williams and Raja Zeeshan and the respective Mayors for Greenwich and Bexley.
I saw the fantastic nature on offer at the Farm on our tour led by Dr Barry Gray, chairman of the Woodlands Farm Trust. It is imperative more young people get outside and enjoy the great green spaces available to them in our constituency.
Photos of Abena Oppong-Asare MP at St Margaret Clitherow Primary School:
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Had a fantastic time at the relaunch of the Vaughan Mills Education Centre at Woodlands Farm!
It was important to recently join a walkabout with the Thamesmead Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT). It was insightful to see and hear firsthand how they deal with the challenges of policing in the local area. What stood out as especially valuable was observing how they cooperate with local schools to ensure a safe dispersal at the end of the school day – making sure the area is kept safe for the students and residents.
It is important we continue to restore trust in our police and crack down on all forms of crime.
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Important to join a walkabout with the Thamesmead Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT).
It was insightful to see how they keep our community safe and hear about the day-to-day challenges they face.
It was a pleasure to be able to visit St Margaret Citherow Primary school in Thamesmead. Firstly, I thanked the students for their lovely designs for my recent Christmas Card Competition. I then had a mini-Interview with two of the runners up, Michelle and Arielle, who fired questions at me about my role in politics. I also asked what inspired their designs, and they shared that the beautiful scenery in our constituency was their main inspiration.
It was great to also join the Key Stage 2 assembly whereby the students asked about my role as their MP and my political journey. Lastly, I was taken on a lovely tour of the school by the Head Girl, Claire, and the Head Boy, Jimi.
Photos of Abena Oppong-Asare MP at St Margaret Clitherow Primary School:
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
It was a pleasure to visit St Margaret Clitherow Primary School in Thamesmead.
I thanked the students for their great designs for my Christmas Card Competition and answered some of their thoughtful questions.
https://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/IMG_0936-1-scaled.jpeg19202560Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2025-02-10 13:40:012025-03-03 13:45:05Visit to St Margaret Clitherow Primary School
I was honoured to attend the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration. It was a poignant reminder to remember the past and stand against hatred. Grateful for the chance to reflect and pay tribute.
I was joined by Leader of Greenwich Council, Cllr Anthony Okereke, and Mayor of Greenwich, Cllr Jit Ranabhat, alongside many others.
Photo of Abena Oppong-Asare MP at the Greenwich Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration:
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP:
Honoured to attend the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration this morning.
It was a moving reminder to remember the past and stand against hatred.
Today marks the anniversary of National Holocaust Memorial Day. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Nazi Concentration Camps in Europe. It is pertinent that we reflect today on the tragedy that was the Holocaust and continue to remember the innocent lives that were taken.
This month, I signed the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment and pledge to remember the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered in the Holocaust and speak out against all forms of antisemitism.
Photo of Abena Oppong-Asare MP signing the Book of Commitment:
Social Media post by Abena Oppong-Asare MP commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day 2025:
Today marks Holocaust Memorial Day.
We must remember the six million Jewish people who were murdered in the Holocaust and speak out against all forms of antisemitism.
https://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/25.01.21-Abena-Oppong-Asare-Book-of-Commitment-Holocaust-Memorial-Day-2025-square.jpg13791379Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2025-01-27 08:25:002025-01-27 09:31:34Holocaust Memorial Day 2025
Patients in Erith and Thamesmead will be able to access more appointments closer to home and get the treatment they need faster under a new plan to tackle hospital backlogs set out by the Prime Minister earlier this month.
In London, nearly half a million people – 476,131 in total – have been on waiting lists for more than 18 weeks, including an alarming 103,210 people within the NHS South East London ICB, causing a significant impact on their health.
Addressing the 7.5 million-strong waiting list inherited by the government, and ensuring the NHS once again meets the 18-week standard for planned treatment, is a crucial milestone in the government’s Plan for Change.
Restoring this 18-week standard will mean patients in Erith and Thamesmead no longer have their lives put at risk or on hold – instead getting the treatment they need when they need it.
At the moment, too many patients face long waits for appointments or surgeries and may be referred to hospitals they don’t choose at inconvenient times, while appointments and staff time are being lost to inefficiencies or inconsistencies in care.
The Labour Government’s Elective Reform Plan, published this month by NHS England, sets out a whole system approach to hitting the 18-week referral to treatment target by the end of this Parliament.
This includes opening Community Diagnostic Centres on evenings and weekends so that many more people will be able to access tests and checks while going about their daily lives.
The NHS will also increase the number of surgical hubs, which will help protect planned care from the impact of winter pressures and will cut waiting lists for standard surgeries, in turn freeing up beds in acute wards.
The plan will drive forward progress on the government’s first steps commitment to deliver 2 million extra appointments in its first year, equivalent to 40,000 every week. The reforms will put patients first, harness technology to support staff and help the NHS to do things more efficiently.
Under the plan, 65% of patients will be treated within 18 weeks by the end of next year. Based on the size of the current waiting list, that would mean a fall of more than 450,000 people waiting more than 18 weeks for treatment.
After 14 years of decline, these plans will ensure that NHS patients and the people of South East London – and across the country – will at last have access to the timely treatment they need and deserve, while NHS staff will once again be able to deliver the high standard of care they are so deeply committed to providing.
Abena Oppong-Asare, Member of Parliament for Erith and Thamesmead said:
“Too many residents in our community of Erith and Thamesmead and South East London are stuck on the record long waiting lists inherited by this Labour Government at huge cost to their health.
“That’s why the reforms announced this month to cut NHS waiting times from 18 months to 18 weeks will make such a huge difference. With so many people waiting for treatment, it is more urgent than ever that we reform our NHS so it will always be there for you when you need it.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
“This Government promised change and that is what I am fighting every day to deliver.
“NHS backlogs have ballooned in recent years, leaving millions of patients languishing on waiting lists, often in pain or fear. Lives on hold. Potential unfulfilled.
“This elective reform plan will deliver on our promise to end the backlogs. Millions more appointments. Greater choice and convenience for patients. Staff once again able to give the standard of care they desperately want to.
“This is a key plank of our Plan for Change, which will drive growth that puts more money in people’s pockets, secures our borders and makes the NHS fit for the future so what working people live longer, healthier, more prosperous lives.”
https://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Official-Portrait-of-Abena-Oppong-Asare-MP--scaled.jpeg17072560Abena Oppong-Asare MPhttps://abenaoppongasare.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SM-Logo-3.pngAbena Oppong-Asare MP2025-01-23 14:00:232025-01-23 14:01:06Abena welcomes the Government’s plan to cut backlog of over 100,000 patients in South East London waiting over 18-weeks for NHS treatment
