Some experiences stay with you for life.
When I was growing up, my mum, my sisters and I lived in temporary accommodation. I still remember the relief and joy of leaving behind damp B&Bs when we finally got a council home. It didn’t solve all our problems overnight, but it did give us something solid to build on.
I know what a difference it makes when you have a safe place to live, people around you who care about you, and the chance to plan for the future. I also know how much harder life can be when you don’t! But when people get the right support at the right time, it can be life changing.
When I look at the issues I’m working on across housing, communities and local government, I see a common thread. Whether it’s tackling rough sleeping, supporting faith communities or bringing people together across different backgrounds, it comes back to making sure people feel valued and part of something bigger than themselves.
My mum brought up me and my sisters on her own. She was a teacher. She made sure we understood that decisions didn’t just happen – they were made in town halls and parliament, and had a real impact on lives. She voted without fail and always took us along to the polling station. If you want things to change, she’d say, you had to take part.
Sadly, Mum’s no longer with us. But I know she’d be so proud that my job now is helping people into a secure home and keeping our democracy strong.
