We can all make a difference at the local level

By Chris Worsey

It’s been nearly 4 months since I was selected to represent the Labour Party for a seat on the district council. The seat itself, Cannock West, is a something of a Tory stronghold. The last few elections the Conservative party have triumphed by a large majority. Cut despite running a start up business and studying for a Masters in Law part time, I jumped at the chance to stand. Since then I have done what most first time candidates do; work hard and speak to as many people as possible. I’ve talked to anyone who would listen. I’ve leafleted, knocked on doors, attended club meetings, talked to friends, family, acquaintances, people in pubs and people on the street and most asked me a question along the lines of:

“Why on earth do you want to get involved in politics? They’re all the same them lot.”

I had anticipated the question. After all, I am not the usual district council candidate: only 26 years old and from a very apolitical background. Infused in the question was a cynicism with politics as a whole, not only on a national level but on a local level as well. There was a feeling that politics was all one big game that is only played by individuals who are keen to massage their own egos. I usually answer the question by saying I understand them and that I had once held similar views but that I now viewed politics in another way; that I was now of the view that politics can bring people together; that we all have a role to play to improve each others’ lives and that we are more similar than many would have us believe. It’s a pretty good little speech, I think. I’m not sure the people who have heard it have been similarly impressed but I guess I will know by the morning of May 7th!

One of the personal highlights of the campaign so far has been campaigning with the Labour PPC for Cannock Chase, Sue Woodward. Sue, an ex English teacher, is a local lady who cares passionately about the Cannock Chase area. Formerly the political assistant to the hugely popular Tony Wright who is stepping down at this election, Sue actually had to be persuaded by Tony to put her name forward to stand. It’s a good job Tony is as persuasive as he is respected because Sue has brought a real energy and ambition to the campaign. It has been a wonderful learning experience to see how she really connects with the voters – knowing many of them personally through years of good work in the constituency.

Sue Woodward deserves to win Cannock Chase on May 6th and Labour deserves to win an unprecedented fourth term. As for myself, I’m just going to keep talking to whoever will listen. I’m going to tell them why Labour is still the most progressive force in British politics, tell them why I believe politics is important, listen to their concerns and ask them to vote for myself and Sue on May 6th.