Lee Dargue

I am passionate about Birmingham and proud to campaign and fight elections in my home of Ladywood. Residents often tell me that they are tired of a complacent Labour taking their votes for granted – it's time for positive change and I represent that in my home of Ladywood. Ladywood ward is a fantastic place to live, however people are fed up with being ignored on so many issues. We need more enforcement against bad driving and parking, fly-tipping, and anti-social behaviour. Communities need to be empowered to set their own priorities. especially in the face of a Council and Developers that don't properly engage with residents and businesses, despite planning for huge demolition and displacement. Residents have, for too long, been left with a total lack of repairs to housing, including the scandalous situation of unsafe buildings that need to be protected against fire and smoke. Parks and green spaces need improving and being cared for, and our roads need to be in a good state of repair, with better public transport links and active travel options. I have long campaigned for Mental Health service provision to receive full equality with physical health – a journey started by the LibDems in government, and one we must continue. Social Care is in crisis and carers urgently need fair wages and better support. All of this means that we have a big mountain to climb, but I have been lucky to meet some inspirational people across Birmingham who are working to make this happen, and I continue to support them. I’m a qualified Teacher and so very much aware of the pressures faced by teachers and staff, as well as students. I support young people in various ways, such as helping them grow their campaigning experience and supporting them standing for election. I also believe it’s vital that our environmental protections are strengthened, and that civil liberties for LGBT+, BME and others are protected and improved.