Your Candidates for Claines Ward

I have lived in Claines Ward for most of my life, attending local schools and taking part in local groups and activities. I care passionately about my local community and providing opportunities for all – especially young people. The Covid pandemic was awful for children and young people, unable to get out and about, having to learn at home instead of at school or college. This has had a huge impact on mental health and confidence in young people. As well as doing more to provide good jobs locally and decent, affordable homes, we need to improve mental health provision in schools and colleges – something Labour is committed to doing.

After A levels I chose to do an apprenticeship rather than go to University. I depend on public transport to get to my job. Too often trains and buses just don’t turn up. Better public transport would help tackle the traffic congestion we suffer in Claines Ward.

I am an academic, social worker, entrepreneur and trade union organiser.  I live in Worcester with my wife and my Dachshund Bruce. I care about sustainability and doing what we can locally to meet the challenges of the climate crisis.

Sadly, residents in Claines are troubled by inappropriate development on long cherished open spaces and cuts to bus services that only increase the isolation felt by so many in the area. Labour’s ‘Better Buses’ plan should see the reintroduction of bus services across Worcester.

Residents in Claines are not immune to the ongoing cost of living crisis. As food, energy and fuel prices skyrocket, it is more important than ever to insulate homes and promote walking and cycling. It is also important to provide help for those most in need and I am proud that Labour councillors have done this through the Discretionary Welfare Fund and support to Worcester Foodbank and CAB

I have had the privilege of being a Worcester city councillor previously, so understand fully what’s involved to help resolve local issues, build strong links in a local community and take sometimes difficult decisions at the City Council. I have a good track record of setting up and working with community groups on environmental issues especially.

14 years of Tory failure at national and local level have resulted in severe budget cuts and huge pressure on local services. The cost of living crisis, problems with the NHS, sky-high energy costs, empty shops and cuts to services all have an impact on local residents. It is time for change.

Residents in Claines live in a beautiful part of Worcester. Labour councillors are committed to maintaining clean and safe neighbourhoods, excellent parks and open spaces and good leisure facilities that all can continue to enjoy.