I’m Esther Rai, your Labour candidate for the Northfield ward by-election on Thursday 4 July 2024.

Full statement

I’ve spent my working career as a teacher and in community support work, advocating for children, young people, and the most vulnerable.

As your councillor I will stand up for your interests, be present in the community, and champion Northfield.

Let’s get Northfield back on track.

My pledges to you:

1. Be present within our community - I will get the basics right - I’ll hold regular ward forums and advice surgeries and get our ward plan over the line.

2. Fight for every penny we’re entitled to - I’ll make sure all of our ward funds are spent on improving Northfield, and that we get a fair share of new pots of money.

3. Work towards a better future for our high street - I’ll work with the BID and Council to make sure we’re ready to win future funding and to stop anti-social parking from food couriers.

4. Stand up for you during the Council’s recovery - I’ll be your voice in the room to make sure decisions are made with the people of Northfield, including saving Northfield Library.

5. Make our streets safe and accessible - I’ll work with authorities to improve walking, wheeling and bus routes, and with the PCC to reduce crime on our streets.