Proudly serving the people of Glasgow South West
April 2025
Welcome to April’s newsletter. Last month was a hive of activity at home and in Westminster, and it’s my pleasure to be sharing the highlights.
I’m sure many of you will be aware that March was the holy month of Ramadan, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all 13,000+ Muslims in my constituency of Glasgow South West, a blessed Eid Mubarak.
As the only Muslim MP representing a Scottish Westminster constituency, I am personally aware of the positive contributions Muslims are making to our city and our country. During Ramadan, it was my honour to represent you at events both in parliament and locally. This has included hosting the Prime Minister in Westminster Hall for the Big Iftar event and attending an Iftar at 10 Downing Street. I have also been a keynote speaker at several other Iftars, proudly representing the communities of Glasgow South West, which is the most diverse constituency in Scotland.
Regarding my work in Westminster, I welcomed the comments made by my friend and colleague, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, in the Spring Statement. The investment in defence spending announced by the UK Labour Government. I will do my utmost to make sure this brings well-paid jobs and investment to Glasgow South West and will re-double my ongoing efforts to link local school pupils with real career opportunities as I did last year with my unique schools and businesses summit at the Barclay’s building in Tradeston. It is a stain on our society that our young people are being denied opportunities to flourish, with Scotland’s economic inactivity rate being higher than the rest of the UK, a situation that the SNP has presided over for 18 years in government. In addition to the defence spending, the UK Labour Government is additionally committed to supporting people back into meaningful work through our Pathways to Work initiative.
In Glasgow South West, I’ve had the pleasure of engaging with constituents in my advice surgeries and organisational visits. My advice surgeries are a fantastic opportunity for constituents to share concerns, discuss policy issues, and seek advice on various issues. It is my favourite part of the week so please do get in touch if you would like to meet.
In this month’s newsletter, I will give you an update on casework, my work in Westminster, events happening in and around Glasgow, and grant funding opportunities for charities to access.
As always, please get in touch with any casework enquiries or if you would like to have a chat about any concerns.
Please remember to enable pictures to download on your emails!
Contact:
zubir.ahmed.mp@parliament.uk
0141 266 0233
Casework
In March 2025:
407 new cases have been opened. Constituents have contacted me with casework issues including social security, immigration, housing, governmental policy enquiries, and local issues.
933 emails have been sent to constituents who have been in touch
Across Glasgow South West
If you would like any support with casework issues, please get in touch!
I am here to serve you and I would like to offer my support. As an MP, I can advocate on your behalf to external and governmental agencies. This month I wrote to the DWP on behalf of a constituent who was facing significant health issues and has struggled to attend appointments/communicate with the department. Due to our intervention, the DWP have taken action and we were able to get their benefits reinstated swiftly.
I support constituents with similar issues every day, so please do not hesitate to contact me.
Lifelink HQ
I visited Lifelink’s HQ which is based in my constituency of Glasgow South West and it was a pleasure to meet with Jacqui Taylor and Marion McDonald to talk about the work that they do.
Lifelink is a Scottish charity dedicated to supporting adults and young people in making positive life changes, enhancing their ability to manage stress, and overcoming mental health challenges which are increasing in our communities. Lifelink offers services such as one-to-one counselling and wellbeing classes, aiming to improve mental health and wellbeing across communities in Scotland and does much work for our NHS too. I am delighted to support the vital work they do and will be linking them in with governmental agencies to make sure we can give our young people in particular the best start in life.
Consulate of Pakistan in Glasgow
It was a pleasure to attend the 85th National Day of Pakistan celebration with His Excellency the consulate general Rana Samar Javed, highlighting the rich heritage of Pakistani culture in Scotland and celebrating Pakistan Day on behalf of my 13,000+ constituents of Pakistani heritage.
We were honoured to be joined by Scottish Minister Kaukab Stewart, Bailie Rashid Hussain, my neighbouring colleague John Grady MP, as well as many other distinguished local guests.
As the Member of Parliament for Glasgow South West, Pakistan Day holds special significance for me — not only because of my own Pakistani heritage but also because I am fortunate to represent the largest Pakistani diaspora per constituency in Scotland. Additionally, the Pakistani Consulate in Scotland is located within my parliamentary seat.
It was a memorable day spent among friends, celebrating our rich culture and contributions to Scotland through business, politics, and charity. The twinning of Glasgow and Lahore further strengthens our community bonds.
Campaigning in Glasgow!
As always, I was grateful for the opportunity to have meaningful conversations with a number of my constituents on their doorsteps this month. I find it an invaluable practice to ensure that my team and I maintain a laser-like focus on what is most important to the people of Glasgow South West.
Hillwood Boys Club
Alongside Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar MSP and Shadow Spokesperson for Sport and Culture Neil Bibby MSP, I had the pleasure of meeting with Hillwood Boys Club to discuss how we can better support grassroots football in Pollok and Glasgow South West.
Grassroots football clubs are a community institution, and I am so proud of our working relationship with Willie and the team. They nurture the next generation of talent and serve as pillars of our community. They provide accessible opportunities for everyone to engage in the sport while fostering a strong sense of community and friendship.
I am deeply grateful to the club’s formidable founder, Willie Smith, for his incredible contributions to the people of Pollok and the surrounding districts over the past 55 years. His passion for football has made a significant impact on our community.
Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!
We celebrated the rich culture and heritage of Ireland, and the strong bonds that unite Scotland and Ireland together.
On 17th March we had the chance to come together in celebration of Saint Patrick's Day - Scottish and Irish culture has forever been intertwined, as we cherish our similar values of hospitality, kindness, and humour. It was a great opportunity to celebrate Irish culture, whilst also serving as a reminder of the sense of community which we experience here in Glasgow South West.
Work in Westminster
UK Labour Government announces an end to bureaucracy
After 14 years of Tory rule bureaucracy is gone. Command and control gone.
An NHS devolved and fit for the future is what a UK Labour Government gets you. Our UK Labour Government are abolishing the biggest QUANGO in the world, delivering better care for patients and better value for taxpayers.
But in Scotland, the SNP led NHS is still drowning in red tape. Scots pay more to get less. The SNP continues to show just out of touch they are with the reality facing both patients, and my hardworking NHS colleagues.
Crumbling facilities, outdated equipment, a digital desert and a workforce which is being stretched to beyond breaking point. This is the legacy of SNP management of the NHS. For all their promises and their plans, they have failed to deliver the fit-for-the future health system, which the people of Scotland deserve. Scottish Labour is working to fix this mess - with plans to invest in our frontline services, upgrade the outdated infrastructure, and put patient back in control of their health. This will take decisive leadership and action and only Scottish Labour led by Anas Sarwar (a former NHS dentist) can deliver on this promise.
My intervention on the Spring Statement
Our UK Labour Government is prioritising security at home. With international instability at levels not seen since the end of the Cold War, it is more important than ever that we work towards a safer and stronger Scotland and Britain. This commitment is exemplified by the largest ever increase in GDP defence spending, which will create a wave of new, well-paid jobs in constituencies such as Glasgow South West.
The SNP's 18 years of economic mismanagement have led to a higher economic inactivity rate in Scotland compared to the rest of the UK. Our UK Labour Government is dedicated to reversing this trend and supporting people back into meaningful work.
We will continue to work tirelessly so that security of our country is interwoven with our economic prosperity and Labour will make sure this will benefit Glaswegians directly.
Supporting maternity care
No woman should ever feel neglected during pregnancy or early motherhood due to the health system's failure to accommodate physical disabilities.
I joined my MP colleagues at an event hosted by Dr. Marie Tidball MP to hear from an inspiring group of women who have faced discrimination in their maternity care. It was truly inspiring to hear from our brilliant Team GB Paralympian mums, Cary Racer, Kelly Gallagher, and Jodie Grinham, as well as Professor Hannah Kuper.
Together, as Members of Parliament, we are calling for action to end inequalities in maternity care for disabled women.
Westminster Hall Big Iftar
It was wonderful to share the Iftar with the Prime Minster for the first time in Westminster Hall. Under his premiership Britain is a place where all faiths can feel comfortable.
To share Iftar with the Prime Minister and members of the Muslim community was truly a special moment for me. It cannot be understated that this was extremely significant, to have a celebration of this kind right here in Westminster Hall. It speaks volumes to how the contributions of the Muslim community are valued both in London, and beyond.
Iftar events across Westminster
As Scotland's only Muslim MP, it was an honour to attend various events around Westminster during my first Ramadan representing the people of Glasgow South West.
I was delighted to attend Iftar with the Ambassador of Morocco, His Excellency Hakim Hajoui, to be a keynote speaker at the Labour Muslim Network’s Iftar, and to join my friend and colleague, the Minister for the Middle East and North Africa, at the Labour Middle East Council’s Iftar.
I am acutely aware of the issues particularly affecting Muslims, from famine in Sudan to the suffering of the people of Gaza and the West Bank, and the pervasive issue of anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia. I understand that many young Muslims and Muslim women are feeling unsettled in the current hostile climate. I want to assure you that your concerns are being heard at the highest level. I have conveyed the need for an anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia action plan to Lord Wajid Khan (Minister for Faith) and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.
My Adjournment debate on the positive contribution of Muslims in our communities
I feel a sense of unique responsibility to espouse the positive role that Muslims play in our country, which in current climes does not always feel natural to vocally celebrate. Last month, I held an Adjournment debate in the House of Commons to recognise the positive contribution of Muslims in our communities.
British Muslims donate £1.79bn a year to charitable causes, four times more than the national average, and volunteer time worth £622m a year. I am proud to support Islamic charities that are active in my constituency, including the incredible work carried out by Islamic Relief.
British Muslims contribute at least £24.7bn annually to the British economy. The UK leads in Islamic finance, holding 85% of the European Islamic finance banking sector.
Educational attainment among Muslims has also seen a notable increase, with 32.3% holding degree-level qualifications in 2021, driven by greater participation of Muslim women in higher education.
Muslims remain an inviolable part of the fabric of British and Scottish life - the story of Muslims is intricately woven into our society - it is apparent in every walk of life and is one worthy of celebration.
Discussing the Middle East Conflict with Palestinians and Israelis
I had the honour of hosting Yachad, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting a two-state solution in Israel/Palestine, in Parliament. They brought together several Israeli and Palestinian speakers to share their perspectives on the ongoing conflict with MPs from various parties.
Dror Etkes, from the Israeli NGO Kerem Navot, shared his valuable perspective on settler violence in the West Bank. It was inspiring to hear of his firm’s work in this space and working towards a two-state solution, building support from within Israel.
We also heard the moving stories of both Maoz Inon and Aziz Abu-Sarahm who both tragically lost loved ones during this conflict. It was a memorable moment for all MPs in attendance to listen to their stories, and even more inspiring was their commitment to peace, despite the tragedies they have experienced. I and many MP colleagues were deeply moved by their contributions and we will continue to work with them to pursue a peaceful co existence for Palestinians and Israelis.
Eid Mubarak!
From my family to yours, Eid Mubarak!
BBC Debate Night
It was great to join the conversation on BBC Debate Night, discussing important issues raised by the audience in Galashiels. I had the opportunity to share our UK Labour Government’s vision and Plan for Change.
Community Notice Board
Funding for Children and Young People with Additional Needs in Scotland
Trefoil, a large grant-making charity in Scotland, is accepting applications to its second funding round for 2025.
Formally constituted not-for-profit groups with an annual turnover of less than £500,000 can apply for a grant (there is no minimum or maximum amount).
Organisations' aims and objectives must align with those of Trefoil to aid, assist and promote, to their advantage, the interests of children and young people under the age of 25 with additional support needs, including but not limited to physical disability, caring obligations, other disadvantages or learning and psycho-social needs (or a combination thereof) and to foster their independence, confidence, and assertiveness.
Agnes Hunter Trust
Grants will be available to registered charities with an annual income of less than £1 million across Scotland to deliver projects and activities that support disabled people.
Grants typically range between £3,000 and £10,000 and can be used to support service provision that provides opportunities and enables people to lead fulfilling lives, such as:
Advice, support, and information.
Life-skills training.
Employability training.
Volunteering.
Funding is for projects that support a range of specific groups or people, including (but not restricted to) those living with mental ill health, cancer, physical and sensory impairments, and long-term health conditions, as well as people with learning disabilities, autistic people, and other neurodivergent people.
Funding can be used towards an organisation’s core costs or direct project costs, including staff salaries and overheads. The Trust will only award grants that equate to at least 10% of the total project costs.
Asda Foundation announces new funding opportunity for grassroots organisations in Glasgow South West
The Asda Foundation has announced up to £500,000 of funding to help support young people in our communities, with a particular focus on mental health and wellbeing. Grants awarded will be worth between £500 and £1,000 and are aimed at helping grassroots groups support young people between the ages of 13 and 21.
Guidance for Groups:
This funding can be used by groups to host safe spaces for young people to be together, or to support a range of other activities or programmes that are aimed at improving physical health and wellbeing. Funding is available to groups who meet at least one of the following objectives:
Provide services that support, educate and empower.
Connect young people to their peers.
Support rehabilitation and recovery and provide shelter.
Deliver activities / programmes that improve physical health and wellbeing.
Organisations can find more information on how to apply here: https://asdafoundation.org/our-grants/young-futures-fund/
GalGael community meals
GalGael host two community meals each week - lunch on a Wednesday from 12:30pm, and an evening meal on Thursdays from around 6pm. After their Welcome session every Wednesday, they host a community lunch which is open for everyone.
Find out more here: Community meals
GalGael is about offering activities that help people regain a positive sense of both self and community.
Easter activities!
Corkerhill Community Club - Parent and toddler group
The Parent & Toddler Group's Easter Fete is coming up on 12th April and they need support with the follower -
Tombola Prizes – Donations welcome!
Stallholders – Stalls are available for hire, and we would love to hear from you!
Broxi’s Egg-Citing Easter
This special occasion will include an appearance from a Rangers Legend, face painters, Easter arts and crafts, party games, a DJ, and an opportunity to get a selfie with club mascots Broxi, Roxi and Boris.
Tickets available here!
Easter Monday at Church on the Hill
Easter Hunt & Petting Zoo at Church on the Hill this Easter Monday, 21st April, from 10 AM to 5 PM – and it’s FREE ENTRY!
• Easter Egg Hunt
• Petting Zoo – Meet alpacas, an owl, a tortoise, mini bunnies & Easter chicks
• Face Painter
• Balloon Modelling
• Plus Soft Play Area & Giant Inflatable Football Darts
• Monday Roast