Watford Observer Column: National politics is a mess but in Watford we focus on what matters locally

Let’s face it – national politics is a mess.

While local residents are facing a cost-of-living emergency, the Government delivered a disastrous budget which led to increased interest rates, a new Prime Minister, and now a new round of tax rises and cuts to services to fix the damage.

In times of national turmoil, it is even more important that local leaders focus on the priorities of residents and not get drawn in to the Westminster circus. That is what I have been doing.

When I speak to residents, the cost of living emergency is the number one issue, with many people telling me that the Government’s energy help is not enough to help them through winter. To help, we have set up Welcoming Spaces across the borough. These are places where people can go, sit in the warmth and meet people. You can find out about these, and other help available, at www.watford.gov.uk/cost-living-support

I have also been continuing to campaign for more police in the town centre. I met with Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner to discuss this important issue and show him the challenges we face first-hand. He committed to increase officer numbers but I will keep campaigning until we see them on our streets. Shockingly, the number of officers in Hertfordshire has actually gone down this year, which is unacceptable.

I am also pressing the Government to commit the funding for Watford General Hospital. We need to get a clear statement now that they are still going to upgrade the facilities to ensure that our amazing NHS staff have the equipment and resources they need to give us the best care. We have waited long enough.

Despite the chaos over recent months it is vital that politicians across the country get on with their jobs to deliver for residents.