Being an Independent Town Councillor
When I was approached in early 2022 to run for Frome Town Council with Independents for Frome - I thought “why not?” I’ve always been interested in politics, and there are only so many times you can aggressively chop your carrots while listening to the news, before you either have to step back, or actually do something!
It’s been a steep learning curve to say the least, and navigating a system that was designed by and for middle-class, middle-aged white men has presented its own set of challenges. Yet I have tried to be an advocate for diversity and inclusion whereever I can. In January 2023 I succeeded in introducing councillor allowances - a vital step towards a more equitable council and hearing voices that have traditionally been marginalised.
I’m also leading on the acquisition and creation of a community garden and growing space, part of the advisory group of a pioneering, lottery-funded partnership called Green and Healthy Frome, and leading our Climate and Ecological Emergency strategy and work programme.
In early 2024 I initiated a campaign to raise money to buy as many young people in Frome as we could a plastic free period pack. We raised £1650, and got big pink pants up on the windows of our town hall in the process!
Being an independent councillor is really important to me, and I never would have become a councillor had the only option been to join one of our main parties. I really believe that our political system is no longer fit-for-purpose, and we need to fundamentally shift power to people and communities.
ADHD- Thinking too fast and too much.
I have never fitted in. Growing up I always felt like the odd-one-out, on the sidelines, never fully involved.
It was only when I was diagnosed with ADHD in 2021, at the age of 36, that things started to make sense and I realised I’d always felt different, because I was different.
My brain works in an unusual way. Too quickly most of the time it’s true, but it can also see patterns and make connections that others can’t. Since my diagnosis I’ve begun to learn to work with my brain. I’ve also realised how important it is for me to follow my interests, and work on projects I really, truly believe in.
Public Speaking
I hosted and produced a podcast for many years, called There Are Other Ways, and since becoming a town councillor I have had to quickly sharpen my public speaking skills - mainly through being thrown in the deep end!
I have surprised myself in how much I enjoy it. Recently I have spoken at events and on the radio on topics including the circular economy, period poverty and equality, independent politics and being a younger, female councillor, the need to change our democracy, and community climate action.
I’m always open to new opportunities to speak or take part in panel discussions. Please do get in touch if you are interested in hearing from me!