I have lived in Worcester since 1995, coming originally from Stourport-on-Severn. I work in housing management, working with people often in very difficult circumstances. I have a daughter who attends Worcester 6th Form College. In my work I see the harmful results of poverty, especially fuel poverty for the elderly and sick – poverty that could easily be reduced by green measures such as insulation and draft proofing. The Green Party supports compassionate, empowering and effective welfare support for all. Current economic constraints should not be used as an excuse to abandon the most vulnerable members of our society.

We are facing an unprecedented range of serious economic, social and environmental challenges that urgently need solutions. These challenges may have national or global causes, but they are already having a massive local impact. The impact on our local communities will only increase as local authorities continue to address the symptoms by cutting services instead of dealing with the root causes by encouraging more sustainable communities. We need to find local solutions to local problems. I believe that the people of Worcester deserve a better deal than they are currently getting.

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