Empowering the Future, Engaging the Youth #### Introduction I am Amy Lynch, I am Irish living in London 14 years.

Full statement

I am a Legal Executive and a single mother of a wonderful mixed-race six year old son who inspires my vision for a brighter, more inclusive future for all our children. My journey has taught me the importance of diversity, resilience, and community. I am running for office to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. I believe in the power of democracy and the vital role that youth play in shaping our society. My campaign is built on the principles of empowerment, engagement, and equity.

#### Vision Statement My vision is a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, where young people are active participants in our democracy, and where our communities are united by shared prosperity and justice. Together, we will build a society that values every voice and ensures that no one is left behind.

#### Key Policy Areas

1. **Education and Youth Empowerment**    - **Quality Education for All:** Invest in our public education system to ensure that every child has access to high-quality education, regardless of their background. This includes increasing funding for schools, modernizing curricula to include critical thinking and civic education, and supporting teachers with better pay and resources.    - **Extracurricular and Mentorship Programs:** Develop after-school programs and mentorship initiatives that provide students with opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and receive guidance from positive role models.    - **Youth Civic Engagement:** Integrate civic education into school

Economic Security and Opportunity**    - **Support for Single Parents and Working Families:** Advocate for policies that provide financial support and resources for single parents, including affordable childcare, paid family leave, and flexible work arrangements.    - **Youth Employment Initiatives:** Create job training and apprenticeship programs that equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Partner with local businesses to provide internships and job placements.    - **Affordable Housing and Healthcare:** Ensure that every family has access to affordable housing and comprehensive healthcare. This includes expanding affordable housing initiatives and protecting healthcare coverage for all, particularly for children and single-parent households the elderly and children and adults with disabilities and mental health.

3. **Community and Social Justice**    - **Safe and Inclusive Communities:** Promote community policing and restorative justice practices to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Address systemic inequalities that disproportionately affect marginalized groups, with a special focus on supporting mixed-race families and children.    - **Combating Knife Crime:** Implement comprehensive strategies to reduce knife crime among youth, including increased funding for youth centers, intervention programs, and community policing. Work closely with schools, local organizations, and law enforcement to create safe environments for our children.    - **Mental Health and Wellness:** Increase funding for mental health services in schools and communities. Ensure that every child and family has access to the mental health support they need.    - **Environmental Stewardship:** Advocate for policies that protect our environment and promote sustainable development. Educate young people on the importance of environmental conservation and involve them in local green initiatives.

4. **Youth Engagement in Politics**    - **Lowering the Voting Age to 16:** Champion the initiative to lower the voting age to 16 for local and national elections, empowering young people to have a direct say in the decisions that affect their lives.    - **Youth Advisory Councils:** Establish youth advisory councils at the local, state, and national levels to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and considered in policymaking.    - **Political Education Programs:** Develop programs that educate young people about the political process, their rights as citizens, and how to effectively advocate for change.

5. Protect our Green Spaces Help protect the environment Hold Merton and AELTC to their promises Save Wimbledon Park for future generations.

#### Commitment to Inclusivity As a single mother of a mixed-race child, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that diversity brings. My campaign is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is valued. We will actively seek input from diverse communities to ensure that our policies reflect the needs and aspirations of all citizens.

Vote for Amy Lynch – for a brighter future, for our children, for our community. **Youth Engagement in Politics**    - **Lowering the Voting Age to 16:** Champion the initiative to lower the voting age to 16 for local and national elections, empowering young people to have a direct say in the decisions that affect their lives.    - **Youth Advisory Councils:** Establish youth advisory councils at the local, state, and national levels to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and considered in policymaking.    - **Political Education Programs:** Develop programs that educate young people about the political process, their rights as citizens, and how to effectively advocate for change.

#### Call to Action I invite you to join me in this journey to create a better future for our children and our communities. Together, we can make a difference. Let's empower our youth, engage in our democracy, and build a society that works for everyone.

Vote for Amy Lynch for a brighter future, for our children, for our community.