Linda Chatfield, Liberal Democrat Candidate for Rutland County Council, Oakham North East By Election Thursday, November 21st 2024
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our Liberal Democrat councillor, Hannah Edwards. I had the privilege of knowing Hannah personally, as she worked closely with my husband, Mark, who also serves as a councillor for Oakham North East. Through their collaboration, I witnessed first hand just how exceptional Hannah was and how deeply she cared for our community.
Hannah has left behind an incredible legacy and some very big shoes to fill. I am standing in the upcoming by-election with a commitment to continuing her hard work and building the strongest possible team to represent us.
This community is my home, and I care passionately about our wonderful town. However, years of budget cuts and complacency have left us with significant challenges that need to be addressed.
Take, for instance, our local health services, which have become increasingly strained under previous Conservative-led government cuts. It has become far too difficult for residents to secure GP or NHS dental appointments. This situation simply isn’t acceptable. As your councillor, one of my top priorities will be to campaign for improved healthcare access in our town, including more accessible GP appointments and stronger support for mental health services.
Locally, the Conservative administration left Rutland residents facing one of the highest council tax rates in the country, all while reducing our access to essential facilities and services. I believe we simply cannot afford to let them take office again, especially given how severely they’ve let us down in the past.
In addition to fighting for better healthcare services, I will work tirelessly to protect our green spaces from reckless development, ensuring that any new homes are built in the right areas, with proper infrastructure in place.
Most importantly, I am committed to being open, accountable, and accessible to every resident. I will hold regular advice surgeries and stay in close contact year-round. Unlike some councillors from other parties, I will not disappear after election day.
I believe passionately that the main role of a councillor is to ensure that every voice in our community is heard. If elected, that is precisely what I will strive to achieve.
Please do consider giving me your support on 21st November. Thank you.
linda@rutlandlibdems.co.uk07921 817332
