A Liberal Democrat MP has congratulated a town steeped in history for being crowned Dorset’s Town of Culture. Vikki Slade, the Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, described the announcement of Wimborne Minster becoming Dorset's Town of Culture for 2026 as a "fantastic opportunity" and has raised an early day motion in Westminster to mark the win and celebrate the town’s cultural assets. Continue reading here .

An MP says she is "deeply worried" about reports of potential redundancies at schools run by a multi-academy trust. Continue reading here .

It’s only fair that wherever a child lives, both parents should support their upbringing. In an ideal world, families could sort this out themselves. But when that isn’t possible, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) is supposed to step in, make fair decisions, and ensure no child is pushed into poverty. Sometimes contact isn’t safe, or possible, and that’s not for anyone else to judge. What matters is that when one parent is doing the day‑to‑day caring, the system should back

Last month, the Government brought forward major reform of the police service. They had already announced plans to abolish Police and Crime Commissioners, with their responsibilities transferred to Mayors or Strategic Authorities—a move I welcome, as it should strengthen accountability. Residents frequently raise concerns about crime and policing with me and with local councillors, yet we currently have very limited opportunities to challenge PCC priorities or speak directly

Vikki Slade, Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, has challenged the Home Secretary in Parliament over Dorset being the second worst-funded police force in England, ranking 42nd out of 43 nationally. Continue reading here

A Dorset MP has launched a new petition calling for secure bike lockers to be installed at railway stations, as part of her ongoing campaign to tackle bike theft. Continue reading here Sign the petition here

People living in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole could face a 7.5% rise in their council tax in April. BCP council forecasts it will face a £10.5m bill for the interest on borrowing needed to provide support and education to children with extra needs. Continues here

MID Dorset and North Poole MP Vikki Slade hosted a public meeting in Shapwick to give residents the chance to raise concerns over flooding, sewage, housing conditions and the long‑term future of the Kingston Lacy Estate. The meeting brought together villagers, representatives from the National Trust – which manages the Kingston Lacy Estate – and Wessex Water.Slade said the aim was to allow residents to put questions directly to the organisations responsible for local infrastr