Adam Dance MP says 2025 was a year of fighting for Yeovil and sets out priorities for 2026

As the New Year begins, Adam Dance has reflected on a year of high-profile local campaigning, saying 2025 was about “standing up for local people when it mattered most”.

Protecting NHS services in Yeovil was a major focus throughout the year. Adam led campaigns to oppose the proposed closure of the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit at Yeovil Hospital, submitting call in requests, raising the issue repeatedly in Parliament, meeting ministers and NHS leaders, and backing a growing public petition.

Adam said that while decisions on stroke services are made by NHS bodies, not MPs, he took on the campaign at a late stage after a major NHS review and public consultation had already taken place before he was elected.

“I inherited a decision that was already well advanced,” Adam said. “There had been no real challenge at the time these plans were being drawn up. Since being elected, I have used every lever available to slow the process, challenge the evidence, and make sure local voices are heard.”

Adam also led the campaign against the closure of Yeovil’s maternity unit. He raised the issue directly with the Prime Minister, secured an Adjournment Debate in Parliament, met with health ministers, and joined parents and residents at a rally outside the unit. He also hosted Ed Davey in Yeovil to hear first-hand from families affected by the closure.

He has welcomed confirmation that the unit is set to re-open in the Spring and says his focus now is ensuring it re opens fully and safely.

Supporting children with SEND and neurodiverse needs has also been a key priority. In 2025, Adam introduced a Ten Minute Rule Bill on dyslexia, worked closely with parents, teachers and national charities, and continued his work through the Dyslexia APPG. Further progress on the Bill is expected this year.

Adam has also stood up for rural communities, launching a local Farming Forum and working alongside farmers to challenge the Government’s proposed family farm tax. While recent concessions have been made, Adam says many farms are still under serious financial pressure.

On dentistry, Adam presented a petition to 10 Downing Street, worked with the British Dental Association, supported the opening of a new dental practice in Chard, and welcomed plans for a new practice in Crewkerne in 2026. He will also lead a parliamentary debate this year on NHS dental contract reform.

Alongside his campaigning work, Adam has continued to hold surgeries, visit schools, support charities, meet local police, back local businesses, and knock on doors across the constituency.

Adam Dance MP said:

“2025 showed just how important it is to have an MP who will stand up and speak out for Yeovil. As we move into 2026, I will keep fighting for our NHS, for families, for farmers, and for the services our communities rely on.”