Steve Darling: Taking time to listen to my community

As the Parliamentary recess begins to draw to a close, I’ve been making the most of these final weeks by connecting with our community.

From knocking on doors to hosting pop-up surgeries and meeting with local groups, it has been a valuable time to listen, learn, and act on the issues that matter most to residents across Torbay.

This summer has also brought a wonderful mix of sunshine and celebration. From the breathtaking Torbay Airshow to the energy of Electric Bay and the community spirit of Paignton Festival, it has been a season to remember.

While the summer has offered moments of joy, it has also been a time for serious reflection, particularly around the future of cardiac and acute care services at Torbay Hospital. 

Earlier this year, NHS Devon proposed relocating vital pPCI coronary services to Exeter. Thanks to strong community opposition, we successfully pushed back. However, the threat has not disappeared. NHS Devon continues to explore major changes under its draft “case for change,” and the latest update presented at last month’s council meeting raised more questions than answers.

Instead of providing clarity, the presentation reignited fears that cardiology services could still be moved. This feels like the first domino in a wider threat to our acute care provision. We must act now to prevent a chain reaction that could undermine the quality and accessibility of healthcare in Torbay.

We are not expected to hear more until September, which makes this moment critical. I urge everyone to stay engaged, ask tough questions, and demand transparency. I have written to the Chief Executive of the Integrated Care Board requesting clear timelines and firm commitments. 

Last week, I had the honour of attending two deeply moving commemorative events in Torbay. The first was a service at Corbyn Head, organised by the Royal British Legion, to honour six brave men who lost their lives 81 years ago during a practice shoot on 11 August 1944. 

The explosion claimed the lives of both Home Guard volunteers and Regular Army personnel. It was a solemn occasion to reflect on their sacrifice and the lasting impact on our community.

Later in the week, I joined the VJ Day 80th Anniversary commemoration at Paignton’s Burma Star Memorial Garden. 

Tucked between Cliff Road and Fairy Cove, this tranquil space is a hidden gem. With my grandfather Joe having served in the Burma Campaign, this event held personal significance. One story shared on the radio particularly touched me. A 15-year-old boy serving on HMS Exeter, which was sunk during the war, spent years as a prisoner of war in Nagasaki shipyards and coal mines. 

His resilience inspired his daughter to learn Japanese and build bridges with ordinary people in Japan. Stories like these remind us of the enduring power of remembrance and reconciliation.

On a lighter note, I am thrilled to announce that my guide dog Jennie is competing in Westminster Dog of the Year 2025, taking place on Thursday 11 September at Victoria Tower Gardens. 

This wonderful event, organised by Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club, celebrates the special bond between MPs and their dogs. Jennie is not only a beloved companion but also a symbol of accessibility and compassion in politics. Her calm and caring nature has made her a favourite in Parliament and across Torbay.

We are asking for your support in the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote, which honours his legacy as a champion for dog welfare. You can cast your vote for Jennie at thekennelclub.org.uk/wdoty. Let’s bring the title home to Torbay.

If you need assistance or want to share your views, please contact me at steve.darling.mp@parliament.uk or 07908 349347. For regular updates, sign up to my weekly e-newsletter at www.torbaylibdems.org.uk/newsletter.