Interview with Kew’s Liberal Democrat Councillor

 

Earlier in the month I had the privilege of speaking to Kew’s Local Liberal Democrat Councillor- Clare Vollum.  I wanted to ask Clare (who was elected in May 2022) what it is like to cope with issues and proposals an area has, on a day-to-day basis.

 

So, what does a local councillor do?

According to Clare there are 3 main components in her job. The first one is “issues raised by individuals”. These are social issues that are raised by the public such as having “problems with landlords” or “not being happy with council service”.

 

The second component is “issues related to Kew”. Last summer, there were around 30 caravans parked on Kew Green. This issue was raised and the travellers have since moved on.

 

The third and final component which is the “overview and scrutiny of council policy and spending”. Clare is a part of the Adult Social Care Health and Well-being Board. Recently a meeting was held, discussing the importance of helping people with their “non-medical aspects of life”. Clare states that these could include “loneliness” or “not getting the right benefits”.

 

As a councillor, Clare also has to “chair the Thames Strategy Group Kew” The purpose of this, is to unite the boroughs either side of the Thames.

 

However, there are challenges along the way. As a “political party needs funds, members” and a “structure”. You must be a strong leader and commit to working hard as you must “run campaigns” and constantly communicate with the community and keep everyone “informed” of the new plans for Kew.

 

Clare has had some incredible experiences as part of her job. Some of these include meeting the “Director of Kew Gardens”, and as part of her job chairing the Thames Strategy Group Kew to Chelsea, she was given the opportunity to meet David Attenborough as part of an “event at Hampton Court!

 

Clare describes her job as “varied” and “interesting” as it is a role that can help everyone in the Kew community and involves a lot of commitment. Clare hopes to “inspire people to get involved in politics”.