I am Stephen Ashfield a science teacher, parish councillor, and committed campaigner for fairness, sustainability, and strong communities.

Full statement

My work in education is driven by a deep belief that we must pass on a respect for the planet and each other to the next generation and that same principal guides everything I do in public life.

As Chair of a parish council, I have led efforts to protect green spaces, improve road safety, enhance biodiversity, and support local projects that bring people together. I’ve also served as a charity trustee, working to support some of the most vulnerable in our communities and making sure no one is left behind.

I have previously stood for Parliament in Easington for the Green Party, and that experience gave me a national platform to speak up for local people something I have continued to do at every level.
Right now, Durham County Council is now run by Reform UK which are proposing cuts to council tax support. These changes would force some of the poorest families in Easington and Shotton to start paying council tax for the first time or pay much more than they can afford. This isn’t fairness; It is a political choice that shifts the burden onto those least able to carry it.
At the same time, Reform UK councillors have brought forward a motion to cancel Durham’s declaration of a climate emergency effectively denying the reality of the crisis we face. I completely oppose this. There is a climate emergency. We see it in rising sea levels along our own coastline, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss. Pretending it isn’t happening is dangerous and short-sighted. We should be leading the way with bold local action, not rowing back on the progress already made.
Reform talk tough on spending, but the reality is they’re taking money away from people in genuine need while failing to invest properly in public services. Whether it’s stripping funding from community facilities or neglecting the coastal environment, they’re not standing up for areas like ours.
If I’m elected to represent Easington and Shotton, I’ll fight to protect council tax support for those who need it most. I’ll work to make our streets safer, protect our natural spaces from overdevelopment, and support fair funding for local services. I’ll also make sure decisions are transparent and that residents have a real say in what happens in our area.
The Green Party is gaining ground right across the North East we now have 19 councillors and growing support. We’re the only party offering real alternatives to cuts and climate denial.
So Vote Green on the 7 August
Vote Stephen Ashfield Green Party.
Let’s build a greener, safer, and fairer future together.