“I was a single mum. I lived on council estate, I’ve got a broad accent…39 tattoos, a nose ring and I pretty much only ever wear Doc Martens. But those are exactly the reasons why it was a good thing I got into politics'
A row has broken out over whether Lancashire County Council is doing enough to encourage a more diverse range of elected representatives within its ranks.
Bringing the motion, Skerton member Jean Parr said that anybody looking at those occupying benches in the county council chamber would “ask questions” – particularly about the number of female and ethnic minority county councillors. County Cllr Whittam also told the meeting that County Hall already does “significant work to encourage diverse groups of people to stand for election” – including by ensuring councillors receive support if they are subject to harassment after taking up their seats and by providing training on equalities legislation and tailored help for disabled members.
County Cllr Lewis said that the last time council boundaries were changed in Lancaster, one parish council successfully argued that a high student population should be removed from one area and included in another, because it conflicted with the overarching demographics of the ward. That, she said, smacked of double standards.
“It’s important that those from less represented demographics are aware of the opportunities that exist to stand for election and of the contributions that they could make to our communities – and this work already takes place. The motion for a commitment to make Lancashire County Council “a diverse council” was rejected by 41 votes to 32.Diversity is not the only issue deterring some people from standing for election, the meeting heard.
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