By Stephen Cummins Liberal Democrat

I’m delighted to introduce myself as your Liberal Democrat candidate for Southend West & Leigh.

When people hear ‘Liberal Democrat,’ I want them to think of hopeful and positive politics. Our party wants to make a society where everyone can live their best life in a free and fair community. We are a collaborative party and will bring success to Southend and the wider South Essex area by working with other progressive parties. Just like we do on the Southend City Council in our coalition with Labour and the Independents.

I was born in England and grew up in Ireland. In a way, I’m a returning immigrant with roots here. I live and work in Southend and have done so for almost 10 years. I came here initially for contract work at Southend Borough Council but fell in love with the Thames estuary, the quality of life here and the friendly people. My daughter attended Eastwood Academy where I served as a governor. I set up a residents’ association where we initially lived on San Remo Parade and started the Southend Dog Friendly Beach campaign. I also ran for the local council in West Leigh. Additionally, I’m a magistrate in family court and am studying part-time for a Master of Laws (LLM) in Human Rights and Family Law. I work from my home on Victoria Avenue for an asset management company in the City of London as an Information Architect.

For fun, I run a book club and a synthesizer club at Anke’s Tea and Coffee Lounge in Westcliff.

If you’ve seen me around, you’ll know I have a disability. It is called PFFD which means I have short legs and walk on crutches. You’ll see me most days flying along Chalkwell Esplanade on a skateboard with my three small dogs, Georgie, Gizmo and Tinx. My wife and I’s favourite thing to do is sit at the Saltwater Beach Cafe and chat to our friends and neighbours and pat their dogs. Being disabled hasn’t stopped me from living a full life, but it has given me a greater empathy for others.

I understand the struggles we face to live well, protect our loved ones, and show kindness and compassion.

We need more equality and fairness in our society, not selfishness and greed. Not everything’s value can be measured in pounds and pence.

It may seem impossible to shift from a Conservative MP in Southend, but the Tories are now unrecognisable compared to the party they were a decade ago.

They have failed to protect our beautiful estuary, our local economy, our health service and the safety and security of our families.

With a new government in July, my focus as your MP will be to challenge the parliamentary decisions that shape our lives.

Voters now have a rare opportunity to choose a fresh start to secure our future in Southend West and Leigh. Trust me with your vote and let’s do this together. To follow my campaign, visit: http://www.stephencummins.org.uk

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