CANDIDATE STATEMENT

I am a lifelong Havering resident and I care deeply about the future of our borough.

Full statement

Living here all my life means I understand both the strengths of our community and the challenges we face. I see the pride many residents have in Havering, but I also recognise where improvements and investment are needed. Rainham and Beam Park have a strong community spirit. I have seen this firsthand through events such as the Rainham Remembrance Day Parade and the Christmas celebrations, which I have helped organise, where local people come together to support and celebrate our community. As a mother of two and a grandmother of six, I see Havering from both younger and older generations’ perspectives. I understand the concerns families face today, as well as the importance of protecting opportunities for the next generation. During my time working in accountancy, I saw individuals and businesses face challenges but also grow and succeed when given the right support. Through volunteering with the local foodbank, helping a homeless charity, and taking part in community litter picking, I have met many residents who simply want to be heard and supported. These experiences have strengthened my belief that local decisions must always put residents first. That is why I am standing as a candidate for the Havering Residents Association to be the Residents’ Voice for Beam Park, representing local people rather than national party politics. “Local people deserve a local voice and that is why I am standing.”