OVER the last 10 years the Conservative party has changed dramatically, both in terms of policy and approach. Ten years ago, compelled to modernise, the Conservative party now, rightly, puts social justice, equality, tackling climate change, helping the world's poorest and the NHS at the centre of the party's mission to build a better Britain.

These are right, and welcome changes but what remains at the heart of the party is a commitment to opportunities, meritocracy, aspirations, helping the needy and a strong belief in the individual's ability to achieve their goals.

Too often party conferences are just about activists talking to each other, but last week the Prime Minister gave a speech that I think signals further change within the Conservative party.

I am certainly not from the stereotypical ‘Tory toff’ background and believe that it is important that we tackle the false image of the Conservative party being a party of the rich, for the rich. We are a party for everyone and that is why David Cameron's speech focused on the key challenges we face today, including poverty and inequality. These words have not traditionally been synonymous with Conservative party leaders' speeches, yet our focus has always been helping people to aspire and helping those in need. The conference marked the start of an era where Conservatives are not afraid to use the language traditionally monopolised by the left.

In truth, it is our language, we have just been very bad at getting the message across.

Locally I am working to ensure that local people have a say and a stake in democracy. I am trying to create an accessible, approachable local party of the people. A party for all. I have taken the unprecedented step of reducing local membership of the Conservative party to £5 and am arranging a series of free events, open for all.

I don't want to just be an accessible and approachable MP. I want to be a representative of an accessible and approachable party, locally and nationally. A party that stands up for real people and is made up of real people. I stood for election on a platform of creating opportunities and an aspiration nation. Now the election is over it is time to set about achieving this.

Support me and join our local group, a great social club with non-political local events by visiting my website michelledonelan.com/events.

To get in touch with me about any local or national issues or to book a surgery appointment, email michelle.donelan.mp@parliament.uk or call (01249) 704465.