I was born in Southport and have always lived here.  My parents live in the town and I have raised my family here.  Having five children born between 2000 and 2021 has given me a real insight into how education, family services and health services have changed over the last decade or more.

I was a civil servant for many years and have always been a member of a Trade Union.  I supported strikes and taught my children why they were happening when I was on strike, or their teachers were.

I left the Civil Service a few months before the 2017 General Election and started working for a local law firm; this is another area that I see as giving me the chance to help people and address injustice.

Seeing how close we were to a Labour government inspired me to join the party and become much more involved.  I have been an active member of Southport CLP and contributed to the elections of my ward colleagues, which led to me standing for the 2020 Local Elections with the support of family, friends and comrades.

I set to work shadowing our councillors where it was appropriate and canvassing residents which also fed into campaigning for the 2019 General Election.  I knew I wanted to run my campaign based on listening to people, showing my commitment through deeds more than words and maintaining positivity, rather than mud-slinging.

When the pandemic halted the elections, the campaign continued.  I was a Ward champion for Covid-19 neighbourhood groups and continued to protest against racism and NHS cuts.

I was honoured to be elected in 2021 and become a councillor.  I have enjoyed learning more about the role and being able to get more involved in community activities and assisting residents.

In this first year, my highlights have included:

• Attending council meetings and visits with my newborn;
• Supporting the Youth Community Partnership family fun day;
• Learning about local services and signposting residents to them.

There are many challenges, but I hope that residents can be confident we will always listen to what matters to them, amplify their voices and continue to fight for services and rights.