As a Kirkstall resident, living in the heart of the ward, I am delighted to be standing for reelection as your Labour candidate in the 2021 local election.

Full statement

Since being elected in 2014, I have been a passionate and energetic campaigner and a strong voice for Kirkstall on the Council. I've worked with local children on anti dog-fouling campaigns, secured the refurbishment of the Clayton Court and Clayton Heights flats, fought for new zebra crossings on Queenswood Drive and Spen Lane and helped residents set up community groups.

During the past year, I have supported children, families and businesses in our community with shopping, food deliveries, gas and electricity payments, access to business grants and support with childcare
proceedings. Besides representing Kirkstall on the Council, as the Cabinet Member on Leeds City Council for Children, Families and Adult Social Care, I advocate for some of the most vulnerable people in the city. This includes being the lead for looked after children and care leavers, the Youth Service, Youth Justice Service and Children’s Centres, care homes, home care and the Neighbourhood Networks that support older people.

For nearly 30 years, I've worked in front line mental health services, including 15 years as the Chief Executive of local charity Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service.

I pledge to you that I will continue to:

Support individuals, children, families, businesses and communities to
Recover and rebuild from COVID-19.
Work with colleagues, children and young people to tackle the Climate Emergency, including campaigning for better public transport.
Develop green space within the ward, including improvements for
Burley Park, Wolseley Road play area and a new playground on West Park fields.
Campaign for increased pedestrian crossings across the ward.
Develop youth work in the area.
Run regular surgeries and attend all meetings of Kirkstall tenants’ and residents’ groups, so I can accurately represent your views.