Stroud MP Simon Opher has welcomed key measures in the latest Budget, which aim to ease the cost of living, strengthen public services, and support local communities.
A major win is the removal of the two-child benefit cap, which will lift 450,000 children out of poverty nationally—including around 1,320 in Stroud. “This is long overdue, and I’ve campaigned for this change for years. It’s fantastic to see the Government finally act,” said Mr Opher.
Other steps making an immediate difference include freezing prescription charges and rail fares, raising the minimum wage, providing £150 off household energy bills, and protecting the triple lock on pensions.
The Budget also introduces a new mansion tax, ensuring high-value properties contribute fairly to public services, helping fund the NHS. Stroud residents will benefit from the rollout of 250 Neighbourhood Health Centres—bringing GPs, nurses, dentists, and pharmacists together under one roof—and an extra £300 million for NHS technology to modernise services.
Local emergency services also gain: search and rescue vehicles, such as those used by Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), will now be exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty, supporting vital lifesaving work across the Severn estuary.
“While there’s a lot to digest, these measures show the Government is taking meaningful steps to reduce child poverty, support families, and back local services,” he added.
