Claines is one of the most diverse wards in the city of Worcester, with many competing needs and issues, from affordable housing, transport, air pollution and health to the green spaces and biodiversity that this ward cherishes. There is also a strong sense of community here and a huge amount of potential still to unlock. As a city councillor I will do all I can to be a responsive and passionate voice for constituents and ensure that this neighbourhood, and Worcester as a whole, develops sympathetically into a thriving, healthy and enviable environment in which to raise families and pursue careers. I am a long-time resident of the city, a writer and a lecturer at the University of Worcester.