On Tuesday 13th January 2026 MP Matt Bishop attended Health and Social Care Questions in Parliament alongside Wes Streeting and his team of ministers, using the opportunity to raise awareness of the ongoing gap in support that continues to affect parent carers nationwide. For so many families, these gaps place immense pressure on mental wellbeing and everyday life — and having them acknowledged at this level truly matters.
During his second question, Matt specifically mentioned Harry’s Pals, recognising the charity’s commitment to improving the mental wellbeing of parent carers. Hearing our work acknowledged in Parliament was incredibly meaningful and represents a vital step towards wider understanding and change.
As a direct result of this discussion, we have now secured a meeting with MP Ashley Dalton, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care. This opportunity to engage directly with decision-makers gives us hope that the voices of parent carers are being heard allowing us to inspire and galvanise some real change.
We want to extend our sincere thanks to Matt Bishop MP for his dedication to getting carer issues onto the political agenda and for his continued support of Harry’s Pals. Advocacy like this plays a crucial role in driving progress and ensuring that parent carers are not overlooked.
By working together — families, charities, and policymakers — we are confident that meaningful, lasting change can be created for families like mine and for parent carers across the UK.
Watch this space — this is just the beginning.