Every fortnight Kevin writes a "Kev's Column" for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (Published on Wednesday 19th August 2020) below:
Results
It is 23 years since I nervously opened the envelope containing my A Level results, thankfully they were just what I needed for my University offer.
Many reading this column will have similar memories of the relief when they opened their results and found the same. Yet for others there will be memories of disappointment and having to rethink long held plans and dreams. The later happening because of an exam which went wrong or an issue with performance on coursework is one thing, it being due to a computer algorithm, as is the case for some in the bay this year, will feel like a much harder hit.
Whichever system was used to award grades in the absence of exams was going to produce some issues, although many have got the results they needed and would have been likely to get if given the chance to sit exams, others who have worked hard have not got the result they deserved.
These students now deserve a quick and fair process to appeal the result given to them for one based on what their teachers had predicted or the ability to show what they can do in an exam for real.
With their futures on the line I will be very happy to help support students who feel they have been unfairly downgraded to get the outcome they deserve.
Street Marshalls
The Street Marshalls initiative has helped make Torquay and Paignton Sea Fronts both safer and more welcoming this summer.
It was good to meet the teams last week and hear of the work they are doing, along with the range of queries they have also been able to help with. They assist the work of our local Policing teams by providing an extra set of eyes on the ground, plus a presence which deters incidents from escalating.
This visible presence to deal with those acting in an anti-social manner or just needing some guidance is very welcome.
Traveller Encampments
The most recent encampment on Paignton Green has been moved on but leaves a debate about how to stop our most scenic sites and green spaces being regularly targeted by those looking to set up camp.
At the recent Home Office Questions in Parliament the Home Secretary confirmed the Government’s intention to bring forward changes in the law to prevent the gaming of the system and welfare provisions going on by those who regularly set up illegal encampments, then count down the clock before leaving shortly before the eviction process requires them to.
The Republic of Ireland implemented successful legal changes a few years ago to make it much quicker to deal with this issue and prevent repeated targeting of key sites. We should follow their example.
Surgery Times
Following recent changes in public health guidance I have restarted my regular advice surgeries, although they must be by appointment only.
My next surgeries will be on Friday 21st August from 3pm till 5pm and Saturday 29th August from 11am till 1pm, both at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. Social distancing measures will be in place and please bring a face covering unless you have a medical condition which means you cannot wear one.
To book an appointment you can email me at [email protected] or telephone 01803 214989.
