Cllr Maria Lawson for Plymstock Dunstone: I became a councillor because giving something back to the community has always been extremely important to me and this was also important to my dad.
Being a councillor is a varied, challenging and fulfilling role. I have quickly learnt that it is not possible to resolve all the issues that arise but that does not stop John, Stefan and me trying our best.
As well as serving residents, we also have responsibilities on scrutiny panels and committees. I enjoy being a member of the Adult Health and Social Care Scrutiny Panel which enables me to use the analytical skills gained from my nursing background to review and question local provision.
I am member of the Child Poverty Committee and have had the honour of becoming the Building Bridges to Opportunity Champion.
I feel it is important to ensure that women are fully involved and have a strong voice in local politics.
I have recently taken over the role of the women’s officer for the South-West Devon Constituency Labour Party and was delighted to be part of the relaunch recently of the Plymouth Labour Women’s Network at The Box.
We had a great discussion about influential women and what we can do to keep improving the city.
Since being elected in May. I have had the privilege of meeting so many people and groups in the area who strive to make our part of Plymouth a better place.
I had a lovely time at a charity coffee morning organised by the Plymstock Bowling Club when a total of £368.10 was raised to support The Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre. Well done to the organisers and to all who attended.
As Christmas approaches, the Plymstock community spirit is even more evident. We are looking forward to seeing the lights switched on in Elburton Village and attending the Village Craft Fair. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas.
Cllr Stefan Krizanac for Plymstock Dunstone: I was recently admitted to the Emergency Department at Derriford Hospital as I was unexpectedly taken ill.
I stayed in for a few days of tests and rest and received excellent care from doctors and nurses. I was happy to learn I was ok but at the same time pondered about my personal vulnerabilities.
While in hospital, I received an overwhelming number of good wishes. This experience brought back memories about my loved ones who have passed on.
Some of them served in the armed forces protecting our country and our people from oppression and the horrors of conflict. On November 8, we will have the opportunity to pay our respects at the Plymstock war memorial on Burrow Hill, to fallen members of our armed forces who paid the ultimate price, giving their lives that we may have our peace and freedom.
As Christmas is nearly here, we are reminded of the birth of Jesus and his amazingly simple message: “Love thy neighbour as yourselves.”
May we all remember how much good we can all do for each other and continue to do our best. May we lift the burdens of those that are alone in their homes, stretch out our arms and let them know we care.
Cllr Daniel Steel for Plymstock Radford: I’m sure you share my same disbelief that 2024 is almost over. As we near the end of the year, for many of us it is a time to reflect not just on the year gone but also the future.
For me, 2024 has been a whirlwind. I started my year as a diplomat and have ended it as a politician. Politics has gone from an interest, something I followed in the news, to a significant part of my life. I have fought three campaigns and was humbled to be elected as your ward councillor in May.
Anyone that knows me will tell you I love a good chat. That’s why I’ve enjoyed speaking to residents so much. Since being elected, I’ve supported residents with issues ranging from hedge and grass cutting, improving pavements, housing issues, and so much more. I feel very privileged to see the great work of local organisations like PEM Disability Football Club that make our community an even better and more inclusive place.
At the Council I sit on the Corporate Parenting Group and Children, Young People and Families Scrutiny Panel. I’ve constantly been inspired by the hard work, dedication, and passion of all those involved in supporting Plymouth’s over 500 looked after children.
Attending the You Can Do It Awards, a celebration of the effort and achievements of our care experienced children and young people, was a particular highlight.
My New Year’s resolution is to continue working hard for residents of Plymstock Radford in 2025 and beyond. Finally, I want to wish you all a very happy Christmas and New Year.
Cllr John Stephens for Plymstock Dunstone: I have discovered that learning and training are key parts of being a councillor. We need to learn about local government protocols, legislation and regulations, safeguarding, personal and on-line safety, and who to ask to answer endless questions!
I recently completed a Climate Awareness course which is accredited with the Carbon Literacy Trust. Though climate change issues are dominant on news programmes, and Plymouth City Council has an excellent Net Zero Action Plan which can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/net-zero-action-plan
I confess I was shocked how little I knew about the causes and impact of climate change. My eyes were opened wide when learning about the scientific facts, myths and examples of what simple changes can be achieved for the benefit of our community, planet and the generations to come, including my own two grandchildren.
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by our actions.
Following recent conversations with residents and groups across the ward, in the new year, I plan to pull together anyone who may be interested in getting together to learn more about climate change and how to reduce their own and our collective carbon (usage) footprints. We can explore how we can re-use, repair, reduce car travel where possible and re-engage the community, including those who may feel isolated.
There are already many examples of people who contribute to community gardening in Elburton and at Downhorn Park, Friends of Downhorn Park. Visit www.downhornpark.uk for more details. They are protecting and enhancing community use of Plymstock’s green open spaces, taking part in walking groups, forming part of the amazing Clean Our Patch schemes, and cycling, walking, catching a bus or car share their journeys.
Keep an eye out for updates on my councillor and local community Facebook pages, in this newspaper and on information streams of local relevant organisations to find out how people of all ages in Plymstock can help develop a green, healthy, active and socially engaged local community.
In the meantime, before we set out minds to this new year initiative, I hope you all have a good Christmas and a New Year that will be peaceful and a blessing for you.
Councillor Contact Details
Plymstock Radford:
daniel.steel@plymouth.gov.uk on 07483 300703
Plymstock Dunstone:
Maria.Lawson@plymouth.gov.uk 07483 301 286
Stefan.Krizanac@plymouth.gov.uk 07813 395 873
John.Stephens@plymouth.gov.uk 07977 7630 601
