We asked some of our prominent female Councillors why women’s representation matters for Stockport, and how Labour are making the difference. Here’s what they said:
“I am proud to be part of a group which is taking concrete steps to help women like me into Local Government.
“Stockport Labour have worked hard to help me fit my work as a Councillor around being a working mother of three primary school-age children. Without this support it would be an uphill struggle to represent people like me in Davenport & Cale Green.
“Together, we’ve ensured Stockport Council is implementing recommendations of the Fawcett Society’s report into Women in Local Government, including bringing in a policy on Maternity, Paternity, Childcare and Disability for Councillors. This helps me to attend meetings and have the childcare I need to undertake my duties as a Councillor and represents real progress for people like me. “
Councillor for Davenport & Cale Green, Elise Wilson
“Politics and democracy work much better when they are representative of the population as a whole. There should be no barriers to anyone becoming involved. Policies are better constructed when all voices are heard.
“There needs to be proactive support, accessible childcare for men and women and a real drive to make sure that no-one is prevented from taking part because the support that should be there, just isn’t.”
Cabinet Member for Communities & Housing and Councillor for Edgeley & Cheadle Heath, Sheila Bailey
“Each one of the women in this photo is a great example of strong representation for the people of Stockport, with politics being an area which was almost wholly male dominated not long ago.
“We can be proud of Labour’s record of ensuring women’s voices are heard and properly represented in Stockport. This applies not only to the Council with the Stockport Labour Group, but with Ann giving us a voice in Westminster and many others active year-round across all our communities.
“We will continue working to ensure Stockport’s representatives reflect it’s people, the best way to provide the strong representation residents deserve. “
Cabinet Member for Economy & Regeneration and Councillor for Reddish North, Kate Butler