I worked for thirty years as a secondary school teacher in Redbridge.

Full statement

More recently I have been working with organisations that promote creativity and wellbeing through music. I’ve been working with older people, and people with a range of mental health challenges. Last year, one of the groups I work with won the Pride of Waltham Forest Cultural Connections award. Working with such a diverse range of people and facilitating their expression and fulfilment makes me feel extremely privileged and proud.

I could list many words that reflect my values. But education, creativity, care, compassion, and community are ones that come to mind right now.

I am standing for the Green Party because we oppose the policies of austerity that have had such a devastating effect on our public services. In education, for example, teachers and students face overwhelming challenges because of the negative impacts of funding cuts. With greater investment in our schools, healthcare, and essential services, we can begin to reverse the impacts of those cuts and create a fairer society in which everyone can thrive.

At a local level, The Green Party’s commitment to listening, engaging, and acting on the concerns of local people will help to make a positive change. With the guidance and support of the local community, I want to be able to work towards that change.

I believe that we don’t have to accept things as they are. We can hope for communities and a society in which our needs are met, so we can live happy, fulfilled lives.