Why I’m Standing

I’m standing for the Scottish Liberal Democrats in the West of Scotland because I believe we need more voices in politics who understand what it’s like to struggle, and who know how to deliver change.

I didn’t take a traditional path into politics. I grew up on a council estate in Cornwall. By the age of 16, I was homeless, living in hostels and temporary accommodation, wondering what future, if any, lay ahead. But I was lucky. I was offered an opportunity to train as a youth worker, and it changed my life.

That opportunity brought me to Scotland, to Paisley and it’s where I began building a new life. Since then, I’ve worked with young people in some of the region’s most deprived communities. I’ve supported small businesses, led national projects, and helped shape public services. And I’ve done it all while continuing to live the values that got me here: fairness, second chances, and practical support for people who need it most.

Over the last 15 years, I’ve been an active member of the Liberal Democrats, campaigning in elections where we were told we had no chance, and increasing the vote every time. I’ve served as our Housing and Homelessness Spokesperson, Vice Convenor, and Conference Convenor, and I’ve led work on First Aid in schools, asylum reform, organ donation, and more. I’ve seen how politics can make a difference and where it too often fails.

That’s why I’m standing now.

I’m not just standing to win a seat — I’m standing to represent the people whose voices rarely get heard in Holyrood. I’m standing for families who are priced out of their own communities. For small businesses facing unfair competition. For young people who deserve real opportunities, not empty promises.

The West of Scotland has too often been overlooked, by governments, parties, and campaigns. I want to change that. I want to lead a regional campaign that lifts the whole area, supports our target seats, and builds lasting Liberal Democrat presence across Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, Inverclyde, and Argyll.

Because this isn’t just about one election. It’s about what kind of Scotland we want to build and who gets to be part of it.