From reversing Tory neglect of our green spaces, to pioneering institutional change in mental health support, I’ve always shown that no matter how big the challenge, I’ll always take it on and get the job done.

Full statement

Having gone to school at Yavneh College in Borehamwood, worked my first job at a retailer in the Boulevard, and grown up across the constituency, I’ve seen how our community supports one another.

But the Conservatives have driven our country into the ground - and they’ve taken voters in Hertsmere for granted for too long. I saw that firsthand when knocking on doors during last year’s council elections, which showed us that people here are ready for change.

We need a transformative Labour government to pick us back up. Oliver Dowden doesn’t fight for the change we need - he’s part of the problem, at the centre of successive failed Tory governments.

But we can only put that right with a Labour government that offers a fresh start - and our communities must be able to trust Labour in government once again.

My great-great grandfather, fleeing persecution in eastern Europe, opened a kosher restaurant in the East-End, passed down through generations. My dad worked there night and day to make sure our family had a roof over our head. It was at the centre of my family life, and grounded me in my local Jewish community.

I’m from this community - it taught me to work hard, stand up for others, give back and fight for what you believe in. It’s why I joined the Civil Service, volunteer for cancer care charities and food banks, and why I am a trustee for a homelessness charity. And it’s why I campaign for Labour, day in, day out.

We need to make hope a reality for so many in Hertsmere. Our education system is too rigid, focused on exams instead of creativity and skills for life. Too many in society are left too long without adequate mental health support. We need to tackle the cost of living crisis, fix our rundown public services, and embrace the opportunities of a green economy.

Those would be my priorities in Parliament.

If you want a Labour candidate with the local roots and national voice to take on Oliver Dowden and the Tories, I would be honoured to have your support.