As the year 2025 draws to a close, Marie Goldman MP has penned her final column, casting a reflective eye over the past twelve months. While many anticipate festive family time, the MP for Chelmsford finds herself looking back at the extraordinary individuals and groups she has encountered across her constituency and in Westminster.
The Unbeatable Human Touch in a Digital Age
In an era dominated by discussions about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation, Goldman's overwhelming takeaway is profoundly simple: organisations are nothing without their people. She acknowledges that while AI's role will grow, there are core human elements—compassion, empathy, and selfless dedication—that no robot can replicate. This conviction was forged through a year of visits to Chelmsford's vital community projects.
In January, the MP braved a cold, blustery morning with the Chelmsford Litter Wombles. This dedicated band of volunteers, equipped with pickers and bags, works tirelessly year-round to keep streets, parks, and verges clean. Goldman praised their proactive spirit, calling it "True British values in action," where people solve problems instead of merely complaining about them.
Charity Highlights from a Year of Engagement
During a March visit to Open Road, a key drug and alcohol support service, Goldman learned about its life-saving work. She later attended a Parliament reception celebrating their efforts and has personally seen their SOS bus in action in Chelmsford city centre on Saturday nights, providing crucial support that often prevents unnecessary A&E admissions.
In April, her focus turned to The Independence Project, an organisation in the heart of her constituency that empowers people with learning disabilities and autism to gain life skills and independence. Goldman highlighted the team's amazing work in fostering rich and fulfilling lives for those they support.
The annual Volfest celebration on Chelmsford High Street in June showcased numerous voluntary groups. One that particularly resonated was Service Dogs UK, which provides specially trained assistance dogs to veterans and emergency service personnel suffering from PTSD. Goldman heard firsthand how this service is life-changing and sometimes life-saving.
An August highlight was the 'It's My Life Family Fun Day', a special event for families involved in adoption and kinship care. Supported by staff and volunteers, the day was a joyful testament to the positive impact of community support for children who may not have had an easy start in life.
The Heart of the Community: Growbaby Chelmsford
A standout memory from early October was a visit to Growbaby on Moulsham Street. More than just a free swap shop for children's clothes (ages 0-11), it serves as a vibrant community hub. Goldman observed people from all backgrounds overcoming social and language barriers to chat, smile, and support one another—a scene she described as "really rather beautiful." She commended the volunteer team for creating such a safe and welcoming environment.
A Celebration of Voluntary Spirit
Marie Goldman MP's central message is a powerful tribute to the army of volunteers underpinning these organisations. These individuals give their time freely to help others, a fact she believes deserves celebration and championing, especially during the festive season.
She urges readers to spare a thought for those continuing to help others over Christmas and the New Year. For anyone inspired to join this effort, she recommends contacting Chelmsford CVS, which coordinates the local voluntary sector and is always seeking new recruits.
Concluding her column, Goldman wishes everyone a lovely festive season, encouraging them to hold loved ones tight, raise a glass to absent friends, and celebrate the dawn of 2026.
