Starting off 2025, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP welcomed the government’s announcement of an additional £642,891 in funding for North Yorkshire’s stop smoking services for the 2025-2026 period. This investment forms part of a nationwide £70 million initiative aimed at supporting local authority-led services to help smokers quit. Julian emphasised the importance of tackling smoking-related illness, stating: “I welcome this investment in North Yorkshire's stop smoking services. Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable illness and death, and this funding will provide vital support to those looking to quit.” He encouraged smokers to access resources through the NHS Better Health initiative to create personalised quit plans.
On 8 January, Julian delivered a speech during the second reading of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill in the House of Commons, advocating for greater support for autistic children and their families. He highlighted the importance of registering children not in school and improving teacher training to better accommodate students with autism. Drawing attention to the challenges faced by autistic children, particularly those with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), Julian urged the Government to work closely with autism charities and experts to ensure policies reflect the realities faced by families.
On 10 January, Julian visited Cononley Village Institute to learn more about a recent retrofit project that has improved the building’s energy efficiency. Supported by a £36,654 grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and additional local funding, the project installed solar panels, enhanced insulation, and modernised glazing. Julian commended the project, saying: “It is great to see the positive impact on Cononley’s community by creating a greener and warmer space. The work at the Village Institute is an excellent example of how local initiatives, backed by grants and community effort, can deliver real benefits.”
Following this, Julian visited Sandylands Sports Centre to review progress on a £1.26 million investment aimed at improving community sports facilities. Joined by Chairman Roger Beck, Julian toured the centre, including the main sports hall, all-weather pitch, and squash courts. He also viewed the site of a planned extension, which will feature a dedicated gymnasium and a café with disability access, supported in part by £89,950 from North Yorkshire Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund. Julian praised the improvements, stating: "The extension will not only enhance sports facilities but also significantly contribute to the well-being of the wider community."
Julian continued to engage with environmental concerns, receiving an update from the Environment Agency regarding the ongoing odour issues at Arla Creamery in Settle. Following meetings with the Environment Agency, North Yorkshire Council, and Arla, Julian welcomed efforts to mitigate odours but reiterated the need for a long-term solution. “While progress has been made, more needs to be done to ensure a lasting resolution. I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to address the concerns of the local community,” he stated.
Later in the month, Julian visited The Red House Retirement Village in Ripon to discuss the role of Integrated Retirement Communities in supporting older residents. Organised in partnership with ARCO (Associated Retirement Community Operators), the visit provided an opportunity for Julian to hear directly from residents and tour the facilities.
Reflecting on the visit, Julian said: “It is great to see the positive impact that Integrated Retirement Communities like The Red House have on the lives of their residents. These communities play a crucial role in supporting older people to live independently and with dignity.”
Julian welcomed the recent announcement from Health Secretary Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP confirming the government’s commitment to rebuilding Airedale General Hospital. As part of the revised New Hospital Programme, the hospital - originally built using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) - has been prioritised for reconstruction. Julian commented: “I welcome the government’s commitment to rebuilding Airedale General Hospital. This is a crucial development for our community, ensuring that we have the healthcare facilities needed to provide high-quality care.”
Towards the end of the month, Julian attended the National Autistic Society’s A Constant Fight event at Portcullis House, highlighting the need for greater support for autistic individuals across health, education, employment, and mental health services. Julian praised the work of the National Autistic Society and other autism organisations, stating: “The ‘A Constant Fight’ event was a great opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by autistic people in our communities. I will continue to press ministers to ensure autistic people receive the support they deserve.”
As January draws to a close, Julian remains committed to advocating for the Skipton and Ripon constituency. Constituents are encouraged to reach out to him at: [email protected].
