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!
This month, I wanted to highlight some of the vital actions being taken by the Government that will make a real difference for Erith and Thamesmead residents.
Fixing our NHS remains a top priority, and I’m pleased to see that the extra 2 million NHS appointments promised by the Prime Minister has already been achieved seven months early. We must build on this progress to create an NHS truly fit for the future.
This month, the Government has also stepped-up efforts to expand social and affordable housing, a key issue for our community. Ministers announced a £350 million boost to drive construction, alongside measures to improve standards and crack down on rogue landlords in supported housing.
Additionally, the Chancellor has recently announced new measures to kick start the economy and put more money in people’s pockets. I back her belief in Britain’s potential and her refusal to accept a low growth future. I look forward to these projects creating a brighter future for the country and here in Erith and Thamesmead.
While tough decisions have been necessary, I hope you agree that this Government is making real progress on these and many other issues to deliver the change agenda the country voted for last year.
Greenwich Holocaust Memorial Day Event
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.
Visit to St Margaret Clitherow Primary School
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.
Walkabout with Greenwich Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team
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.
Re-opening of Woodlands Farm Trust Education Centre
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.
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
This month, I’ve been excited to continue my work in the Cabinet Office. I’ve had the privilege of visiting various teams across the country, each doing incredible work in their areas of expertise.
I began the month with an important visit to the University of Glasgow’s Advanced Research Centre to speak to them about their groundbreaking quantum research and the Government’s investment in the sector to build a more resilient Britain.
Following this, it was great to spend time with the Lincolnshire Resilience Forum (LRF), alongside fellow Minister Alex Norris, responsible for Local Growth and Building Safety. I was very impressed to see how the LRF Innovation Fund is driving projects that boost public preparedness and resilience. It was also good to visit the Waddington Fire & Rescue Training Centre, where teams master crisis response skills.
Lastly, it was a pleasure to open this February’s Local Resilience Forum Chairs’ Conference in Birmingham. During the event, I had the opportunity to engage with local resilience leaders from across the UK to discuss and identify key priorities for ensuring the safety of our communities.
Furthermore:
Visit to Parliament by Trinity School, Belvedere – Great to see their Year 11 GCSE Citizenship Studies class had a great visit to the Houses of Parliament, including meeting my Parliamentary team and visiting 10 Downing Street!
Visit to Parliament by St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School – Lovely to hear about their students’ visit to Parliament, including a tour, an Education Centre session as well as taking the time to raise some important local issues with me.
New Location for Plumstead Post Office – In case you missed it, the Plumstead Post Office has reopened across the road at 7 Brewery Road. I know how vital the Post Office is to our community so I’m glad to see a smooth transition from the old location.
Knife Amnesty Bins – Important to see knife amnesty bins installed in our community by the Royal Borough of Greenwich. One is in Abbey Wood at the back of the Old Council Office.
Children’s Mental Health Week 2025 – This month I supported Place2Be’s important work marking Children’s Mental Health Week 2025. Find out more here.
National Apprenticeship Week – Good to see the Government going further and faster to support apprentices nationwide with up to 10,000 more places per year.
Time to Talk Day 2025 – This day gives us all a chance to get comfortable and start talking about mental health. Find out more here.
LGBT+ History Month – Glad to celebrate the heritage and contributions of LGBT+ communities in our local area and across the country this month.
Hearts Unions Week – Pleased to celebrate all the work unions do to make our workplaces fairer and stronger during this recognition week.
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).
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.
I hope everyone in Erith and Thamesmead had a nice Christmas period, and I wish you all the very best for the year ahead.
It’s clear that our community and the entire country face significant challenges. However, as we start this year, I firmly believe in the Government’s “Plan for Change,” which is focused on tackling the key issues affecting working people and families.
This plan seeks to build 1.5 million new homes; provide better education for our children; dramatically reduce NHS waiting lists; get immigration under control; place neighbourhood police in every community; and deliver a stronger economy, with higher take-home pay for all.
I’m confident that in 2025 we will make meaningful progress toward delivering on this change agenda that the country voted for in last year’s election, and so urgently needs.
Bexley Tigers Basketball Club Visit
It was lovely to visit the Bexley Tigers Basketball Club at Trinity School, Belvedere and speak to the coaches, parents and players. I was very impressed with their basketball talents – they even trained me well enough to shoot my first ever hoop!
I am committed to ensuring clubs like this can continue to thrive – providing our kids a safe space to remain active and have a sense of community.
Christmas Card Competition 2024
It was nice to end 2024 with my annual Christmas Card Competition. This year’s theme was “What Makes Erith and Thamesmead a fun place”. I would like to thank all the artful local students, their teachers and parents for making this year’s competition happen.
The winner this year was Vera, aged 10, from St Thomas a Becket Primary School. You can see her brilliant design attached – showcasing the fish roundabout in Erith. You can also find out more on my website.
Open Doors World Watch List Reception
Great to attend this important Parliamentary reception with Open Doors and listen to several insightful speakers on this crucial issue. It is vital that we shine a light on global religious persecution. Thanks to all the constituents who reached out to me on this topic – I will continue to follow developments closely.
Israel-Hamas ceasefire
After over a year of devastating conflict, I’m thankful to see a ceasefire deal announced this month that will both end the fighting and bring overdue relief to the hostages, their families and the millions suffering in Gaza.
This is a huge step forward towards securing a permanent ceasefire that will provide a safe and stable future for both the Israeli and Palestinian people. I’m glad the Government has worked hard to make this progress possible, and I look forward to their continued pressure on all sides to bring long-term peace to the region.
Ministerial work in the Cabinet Office
It’s been a busy new year as a Minister in the Cabinet Office as we work hard to deliver on the Prime Minister’s “Plan for Change” agenda.
I started the month responding to a Westminster Hall debate on National resilience and preparedness. I reiterated that this Government’s main priority is keeping the country safe. Whether it’s cyber security, flooding, biosecurity or any other threat we face, I was clear that national resilience has been at the top of our agenda. You can watch my speech here or read it here.
This month, the Cabinet Office also released the Government’s first response to the Covid-19 Inquiry Module 1 Report. This was an important step toward making sure lessons are learnt from Covid and we are better prepared for the next pandemic. You can read the response here.
It was also important to participate in the first Lead Ministers for Disability meeting. We discussed the Disability Unit’s work in breaking down barriers faced by disabled people in the UK, as well as putting disabled people’s views and voices at the heart of our decisions. You can see more about this meeting here.
Furthermore:
Woolwich Polytechnic School Visit to Parliament – Great to welcome these energetic students to Parliament to better learn about how their democracy works.
Celebration of the life and work of Nicky Gavron – Honoured to attend this memorial reflecting on Nicky’s remarkable contributions to politics, the environment, and the people of London.
Congratulations London South East Colleges (LSEC) – Congratulations to LSEC on being accepted to the UK Parliament Teacher Ambassador Programme.
Renters’ Rights Bill – Great to see the Renters’ Rights Bill complete its third reading in the House of Commons. We are a step closer to fixing our broken rental system.
Early Years Support for Greenwich – Delighted that local families will benefit from a £126m Government funding boost, with over £1m going to families in Greenwich!
Emergency Homelessness funding – I’m pleased the Government has taken urgent action to increase support for those in need, including safe and secure warm beds.
Bringing back the family doctor – This month, I’m thrilled to welcome Government plans to bring back the family doctor and end the 8am scramble for appointments.
Holocaust Memorial Day – Pleased to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day this year by signing the Holocaust Education Trust Book of Commitment in Parliament and attending the Holocaust Memorial Commemoration event in Downing Street.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week – Important to mark this awareness week.Cervical screening can help stop cancer before it starts, so don’t ignore your invite.
Happy Thai Pongal to the Tamil Community – Best wishes to all those in Erith and Thamesmead celebrating Thai Pongal. Thanks also for all you do in the community.
Happy Orthodox Christmas and New Year – Happy festivities to all those celebrating Orthodox Christmas and New Year in Erith and Thamesmead this month.
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).
