SINCE being elected earlier this month, I've hit the ground running as your County Councillor for Whitwick and as the new Deputy Leader of Leicestershire County Council and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, I've been working hard both locally and across the county.

In my first week, I was honoured to speak in the council chamber for the first time, seconding two motions and proudly nominating Cllr Dan Harrison as Leader of the County Council. I've since taken on key responsibilities, including overseeing Adult Social Care and leading on our museums, heritage sites and the Leicestershire Record Office, areas I'm especially passionate about.

Locally, I've been helping residents in Whitwick and Thringstone with a wide range of issues, from potholes and public footpaths to anti social behaviour and highways concerns. One issue raised involved the Coalville Recycling Centre's temporary suspension of scrap metal collection. I raised this with the County Council and secured a response confirming the issue had been addressed and services resumed.

I've also been working closely with local businesses to ensure their concerns are heard and acted on at the county level. I paid a visit to Coalville Foodbank to learn more about the essential work they do, offering not just food but hope and support for those in crisis.

Last Saturday, I attended the Reform UK Councillors' Summit in London, a fantastic day of sharing ideas, building connections, and discussing how we can deliver better, more accountable local government across the country.

Back in Whitwick, I bumped into Rupert Matthews, Leicestershire's Police and Crime Commissioner, and we took the chance to discuss some of the priorities we share for our communities.

Cllr Dan Harrison is leader of Leicestershire County Council. Photo: Coalville Nub News

In my Cabinet role, I've begun diving into the complex but vital world of Adult Social Care. I've been reviewing policy briefings, engaging with officers, and preparing for my first meeting of the Leicestershire Health and Wellbeing Board. I've also been reviewing the County Council's new Rights of Way Improvement Plan and encouraging residents to take part in the consultation to shape the future of our 1,900+ miles of public footpaths.

Together with Cllr Michael Squires, Cabinet Member for Health, I've met with the Chairman of North West Leicestershire District Council to discuss how we can raise awareness and improve support for neurodiverse residents and their families.

It's been a whirlwind couple of weeks, but a productive one. There's so much to do, and I'm committed to making every day count for the people of Whitwick.

If there's anything I can help with, please get in touch:

[email protected]