As this is my first Leader column of 2023 I’d like to start by wishing all constituents and Leader readers the very best for the New Year. As a new year begins, we reflect on the past year – another year not without its challenges, from emerging from Covid restrictions to the awful war in Ukraine and the rising cost of living.

During the course of last year, things began to resemble life more as we knew it to be pre-pandemic, with us being able to get back out and about more – for work, for visits and to see family and friends. This was certainly the case for me as things became much busier once again both here at home in the constituency and across the country too. It was good to be able to hold face-to-face meetings again with constituents, local businesses and other organisations. One of the things I really enjoy in my role is engaging with younger people, so I was pleased to be able to go into local primary and secondary schools again in 2022 – including my former school St. Richard Gwyn High School in Flint and to be present for another excellent General Election Polling Day at Ysgol Merllyn in Bagillt. We were also able to welcome local schools to the Senedd once again.

Whilst we’ve learnt from new ways of working and hybrid participation remains in the Senedd, part way through 2022 saw the return to regular in person attendance and a busy back-to-business plenary agenda, including a key moment for me in taking through legislation for the first time. I was particularly proud to introduce the landmark Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill and will continue to work on this over the coming months as it continues to make its way through Parliamentary Scrutiny. It is also a real honour to lead on Welsh Government work in supporting our veterans and Armed Forces Community in Wales – from backing Armed Forces Liaison Officers (AFLOs) across the country, to publishing the Welsh Government’s Armed Forces Covenant Annual Report and representing the government at services of Remembrance and events recognising the contribution of our veterans.

I remain committed to using my platform to advocate for change across our communities and the country and for greater equality. Whilst I am in no doubt there remain a range of challenges on the road ahead in 2023, from the pressures on our public services and the public purse to the financial pressures faced by many families and individuals, I will continue to work hard day in, day out this new year and every year I am in office, to support this constituency. It is an absolute privilege to serve the people of Delyn as a Member of the Senedd and to serve in the Welsh Government as a Deputy Minister.

My constituency office is now back open as usual following the festive break, so if you would like advice and/or support or want to invite me to an event or to visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on any of the following contact details – 52 High Street, Mold, Flintshire, on 01352 753464 or by email Hannah.blythyn@senedd.wales You can also keep up to date via my Facebook page – www.facebook.com/hannahblythynMS. Constituents are, of course, welcome to contact my office to arrange an appointment to see me, you don’t need to wait until an advice surgery.