I know that this is a difficult time for many of my constituents. For that reason, I’ve compiled a list of useful resources. This includes the latest Government advice as well as different sources of support and ways that you can support others. You can find that list here.

I know that despite the Governments flawed response to this crisis, we will beat Covid-19, by staying inside and following the guidance on self-isolation and social distancing. The community spirit that has been shown by Edmonton in response to Covid-19 has been incredible and is a real positive for us to take out of this difficult time.

Representing Edmonton from home

Like everybody else in the country, the way I work has had to change as a result of the lockdown.

Normally, even during recess, I spend my time between Parliament and Edmonton. Now my team and I are doing our jobs  from home. We have to adapt, but we’re determined to help those who need it and stand up for Edmonton. I will be holding virtual community meetings via zoom and continue to be able to process casework as before.

The International Development Select Committee, which I’m a member of, expects to work virtually on return from recess, and I hope the rest of Parliament’s functions will similarly move online. Although I’m unable to hold surgeries, you can still contact me by emailing edmontonconstituency@parliament.uk

Briefing from local authorities

Covid-19 presents an unique challenge to Edmonton. That is why I am making sure that I remain completely up to date with the situation facing our essential services. I am receiving regular updates from Middlesex Hospital, Metropolitan Police, Enfield Council and others. All services have taken appropriate action to prepare for Covid-19, and I will remain in touch with them through the pandemic. If our police, Council or local health services need more help from the Government, then I will be the first to speak up about it.

Charities need the Government’s support

For ten years, the Government has cut the welfare state to ribbons, with charities filling the gaps. Now charities across the country are struggling as a result of the lockdown, just when they are needed most. That is why I’m supporting the call for the Government to provide support to the charity sector during this time, while they are unable to raise funds. If you want to do your bit to help you may want to consider donating to our local food bank here or volunteering through Enfield Council here.

Renters need to be protected during this crisis  

This Government has done very little for renters over the last ten years and unfortunately even Covid-19 has failed to push them into action. The ‘three month’ ban on evictions turned out to be smoke and mirrors. All the Government has done is extend the notice period landlords need to give tenants from two months to three. Delaying evictions by a month is not good enough. Nobody should lose their home during or as a result of this crisis. That is why I have written to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government to call on the Government to take urgent action to protect renters, including rent relief and banning evictions for 6 months.

Immigration Status shouldn’t stop you getting help

As the Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ (NRPF) I’m particularly concerned about the risks faced by those who are not allowed to claim benefits like Universal Credit because of their immigration status.

It isn’t clear what support, if any, will be extended to people with No Recourse to Public Funds. That is why I have written to the Government to ask them to urgently extend support to everybody with No-Recourse to Public Funds.  This virus does not discriminate when it infects people – the help we give people must not discriminate either.

I want to hear from you

The more my constituents tell me what their priorities are the better I can represent you all as the Member of Parliament for Edmonton. That is more important now than ever. If you have concerns or worries – related to Covid-19 or not – then please do get in touch to let me know your thoughts.

Email: edmontonconstituency@parliament.uk

Twitter: @kateosamor