Hertford and Stortford MP Josh Dean has opened 1,442 pieces of casework since General Election

Since being elected as your MP in July, I have thrown myself into the role with determination and it has been a privilege to serve you. Representing our constituency is the honour of my life and I’m grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me. As the year draws to a close, I wanted to reflect on what we’ve achieved together so far and share my aspirations for the future.

One of the most important functions of my office is tackling casework – supporting residents with the challenges they face. Whether it’s helping resolve issues with housing, healthcare access, benefits or more, my team and I continue to work diligently to support people in our community.

Each of the 1,442 cases we’ve opened so far is unique and, while some solutions take time, I’m pleased that we’ve already seen positive outcomes that make a real difference to people’s lives.

I look forward to further solutions in the new year as we grow our capacity with an additional caseworker joining the team and I thank everyone for their patience as we’ve gotten set up.

In addition to individual casework, I’ve been focusing on policy work that reflects our shared priorities. I’ve spoken in parliament on issues including investment in our region and support for those in need and I’ve met with government ministers to raise constituency issues and discuss how this Government’s Plan for Change can improve our community. Advocacy on behalf of our community is at the heart of my role and I’m committed to bringing your concerns to the attention of policymakers.

Engaging directly with residents has been one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of you on your doorsteps, at surgeries and at community events, listening to your stories and hearing about the challenges you face. Whether it’s attending local fairs, school visits or town hall meetings, I’m constantly reminded of the incredible strength and diversity of our community. These conversations shape the work I do and help me ensure that my actions reflect your needs.

As we start a new year, I’m filled with hope and determination for what we can achieve in 2025 and beyond. My top priorities remain rooted in the issues that matter most to you. I want residents in our community to be supported to live happy, fulfilling lives.

Whether through improvements to public transport, like the rollout of contactless payments to Bishop’s Stortford and Sawbridgeworth in 2025, access to quality education driven by this Government’s mission to break down the barriers to opportunity, or access to more affordable housing, I want you to be well served by our local infrastructure. This will continue to be an important focus for me in the weeks and months ahead.

Protecting our local rivers and chalk streams is a priority for me, just as I know it’s a priority for you. I’m proud to support this Government’s Water (Special Measures) Bill to end the disgraceful pollution of our waterways and hold water bosses to account. I will continue to work collaboratively with the Government and with residents’ groups on this important issue.

I want our community to be a place where our residents thrive. From the needs of our small business owners to the aspirations of young people starting their careers, I want to ensure that everyone feels represented. My door is always open and I’ll continue to hold regular surgeries so you can share your thoughts and ideas directly with me. I’ll also continue to work closely with our local councillors, community groups and stakeholders as we seek to improve our community.

My driving mission will always be to make Hertford and Stortford an even better place to live, work and learn.

As we reflect on the past year, I’m reminded of the resilience and generosity of our community. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve also celebrated successes – from local businesses thriving to community groups coming together to support those in need. It’s this spirit that makes our constituency such a special place to live.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your continued support since my election. Whether you voted for me or not, I’m here to serve every member of our community and I’m grateful for the chance to do so. It’s the honour of my life to represent the community where I grew up and where I call home. Your feedback, whether through emails, conversations or meetings, helps guide my work and ensures that I stay focused on what truly matters.

I’d like to wish you all a happy new year. Let’s look forward to 2025 with optimism, determination and a shared commitment to building a brighter future for everyone in our constituency. Thank you once again for allowing me the privilege of being your MP. I’m excited to continue working with and for you in the year ahead.