NATIONAL Police Memorial Day, held last week, is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made by so many police officers across the UK who gave their lives to keep us safe.

I’ve always taken a moment to reflect on this day, but this year, as an MP, it holds an even deeper meaning for me.

The story of PC John Taylor, a man I never met but whose bravery shaped my understanding of duty, remains a cornerstone in my life.

One of my earliest memories is visiting John’s memorial in Stoke-on-Trent. In 1986, John tragically lost his life while trying to arrest a burglar, falling from the seventh floor of a building.

My mum, a former special constable and colleague of his, took me there as a young child and shared his story with me. That moment was pivotal in her decision to step away from the police and move into care work, prioritising her family.

I owe so much to my mum for sharing John’s story with me. Her sense of duty and compassion have shaped who I am today.

As I think back on that experience, it reminds me how important it is to honour the legacy of those who gave their lives in service. It’s their bravery that motivates me to serve my community and work for a safer, stronger Britain.

As we pause to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, I also think about the important responsibility we have in government to restore public trust in policing.

With only 40 per cent of people in England expressing trust in the police, the work ahead is clear. It’s not just about paying tribute; it’s about rebuilding confidence and ensuring that the principle of policing by consent — so central to our system — remains strong.

In my role, I’m working more closely with police and security services than ever before.

Whether I’m collaborating with neighbourhood police officers to keep Weston safe, meeting with our police and crime commissioner Clare Moody to address knife crime and violence against women, or simply managing the security concerns that come with being in public office, this work is personal for me.

As we look to the future, there is so much to be done to create a safer Weston, and a safer Britain. I’m proud to stand behind our government’s plans to crack down on anti-social behaviour, enforce tough penalties on offenders, and get knives off our streets.

We’re also committed to establishing specialist rape units in every police force and creating Young Futures hubs to give young people better opportunities.

These initiatives aren’t quick fixes — they’re long-term solutions that address the root causes of crime and help rebuild the trust that has been eroded over the years.

Our communities deserve stability and security, not soundbites and short-term political posturing.

As I return to Parliament this week, I do so with a sense of purpose, remembering public servants like PC John Taylor and all those who sacrificed everything to keep us safe.

I carry their legacy with me as I work to make our communities safer and more united. Together, we can fix what’s broken.

Have your say

PCC Clare Moody is running a public consultation on her Police and Crime Plan and wants your suggestions on how we achieve the priorities set out in the Plan:

- Strengthen neighbourhood policing

- Reduce violent crime

- Prevent crime

- Support victims

- Improve standards of policing

The consultation is open until October 21, and you can have your say by visiting www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/about/police-crime-plan24-29/