As part of our 2018 Local Election coverage, we have contacted each candidate standing in 16 wards across South West Birmingham, asking them to contribute to this election’s ’500 Words’ series.
Each candidate has been invited to describe themselves and their campaigns in their own words. Their submissions will be published – without editing – in the order that they are received. Should they be longer than 500 words, they will be cropped.
With the formation of new wards across the city, this is an all-out election, with every seat up for grabs. Some wards have one seat and some have two. Learn more about the ward changes and your candidates.
Our latest submission comes from the Green Party candidate for Rubery Rednal ward, where one seat is being decided: Rob Ball
Being a candidate for Birmingham City Council is a privilege for someone who was born in Cotteridge and has lived in Rednal for many years, now adjacent to St James Catholic Primary School,
Professionally, a senior manager in Human Resources at MG Rover and then, after its closure in 2005, HR Director of one of the GKN businesses. For the last ten years I have run my own companies, most recently created a membership website to help people describe what would bring purpose and meaning to their life, and then find employment to fulfil it.
In 2013 I was trained, by former USA Vice-President Al Gore, as a Climate Reality Leader. Whilst this gave an incredible insight to the issues and the impact mankind is making, our responsibility is to translate it into effective actions at a local level.
The other issues which are at the top of my agenda are employment and homelessness.
The Green Party focuses on being effective in the community combining strong, ethical principles and practical solutions. It is really important to recognise how much influence even a small number of Green Party councillors can have on policy and, critically, actions.
The work of councils will become more relevant as our economy and social policies change after the terrible Brexit decision. However, if it is going to happen there will be a greater need for Birmingham City Council to invest, in its services and people, wisely and innovatively.
In a quest to acquire sympathy votes, I should reveal I am a season ticket holder at Birmingham City FC and member of Warwickshire CCC. More positively, I watch Bromsgrove Sporting.
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