Cllr Joanne Howey is the Conservative candidate for Easington and a councillor on Durham County Council.
Having the opportunity to stand as the Conservative Candidate in Easington, in County Durham is both a privilege and a challenge at once. County Durham, and more so East Durham, has deep roots with industrial and mining heritage and therefore always been a Labour stronghold with strong Labour traditions. At present, I am a Durham County Councillor that represents the Woodhouse Close Ward in Bishop Auckland. It is known as one of the most deprived wards in England. Being very involved with the community and listening to residents has made me so passionate about people and community which has driven me to stand for Parliament. I have a commitment to serve the community, address local issues and bring a fresh perspective to national politics.
Easington has been a Labour stronghold for many years. Its historical connection to coal mining and the working-class solidarity that has come from it. Especially this year, with it being 40 years since the mining strike and we are heading into the period of the annual Big Meet in Durham City. All the preparations are now taking place with many people remembering 1984 and their hatred of the Tories and Margaret Thatcher. However, the political climate is evolving. There is a growing sense of disenchantment with traditional politics, and many of the residents feel they are not being heard anymore. That they are being overlooked. That Labour are just expecting them to vote the way they have always done.
As a County Durham resident, County Councillor and now Parliamentary Candidate, it is essential to recognise and respect the heritage of the area while offering credible alternatives. My experience as a councillor has shown me that people are open to change if they believe it will lead to tangible changes in their lives. The fact that I am the first Conservative Councillor in Woodhouse Close, when no one believed I could change it blue, has shown me that. And I think I have also proved to the electorate that I am there to work hard for them to make that change happen.
Being a Durham County Councillor has given me a more understanding of local issues that really matter to the residents of Easington. From the lack of employment opportunities, healthcare access, housing issues and education. Working as a councillor has always been centred around community engagement and problem-solving. And I always do everything I can to find the best solution.
I have found that residents always appreciate someone who listens and is accessible to them. Someone who will listen to their concerns and who will speak out for their needs. Someone who can communicate and take action towards solutions. Even if you cannot solve their problem fully, if you just take time to hear someone out, it really does help. This approach has guided my work on the council and will be central to my campaign for Parliament.
Easington has faced significant economic challenges, particularly following the decline of the coal mining industry. Job creation and economic diversification are crucial. My plan includes promoting small and medium enterprises, investing in skills, and training and attracting new businesses to the area. A focus on green technology and renewable energy can also provide new opportunities, aligning with national priorities while also benefiting the local community. For example, knowing the area, due to being a Cllr, green energy can still be sought from the hot water that is provided by the coal mines. This would not only create jobs but allow for cheaper energy in the area.
We also must look at access to good quality health care as this is a major concern in the area. Easington residents have expressed frustrations with long waiting times and inadequate services. I will advocate for increasing health care services, dental services, and better support for mental health. We need to look at initiatives to find and retain medical professionals in the area and to keep them here to look after the communities,
Looking at education, this is the foundation and structure for future prosperity. Ensuring that schools in the area are well funded and attracting teachers to the area will make sure that students have the resources they need to aspire to a great future. This must be a top priority. With Labour talking about punishing people with VAT on private schools, they have admitted they are prepared for bigger class sizes in schools. I will focus on trying to bring down class sizes, increasing teacher support and expand vocational training to prepare our young people for a variety of career paths.
To knit all this together, social cohesion and a sense of community are vital. Being a councillor in County Durham, I know the pride that everyone has in the region. Supporting local initiatives, enhancing public services, and ensuring that our communities are safe and vibrant places to live are vital to make an area successful. This includes working with the police to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and promoting community activities and the wonderful tourist attractions that we have in the area that are not showcased enough.
It is important that we work with constituents, organisations, and businesses. The voices of East Durham cannot be ignored for much longer. I will always be transparent, visible, and be approachable, as I have always been as a councillor. I want the East of the County to thrive in the same way as the south. A Labour Prime Minister in County Durham left the county behind; I want to make sure the county is a success if I had the privilege of ever being an MP, as being a councillor has given me the drive and passion for prosperity.
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Author: Joanne Howey
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