I’m Cllr Umar Nasheen, and I am honoured to represent our community as a Labour councillor. I chose to stand for election because I believe that politics is about service — listening to people, standing up for what matters, and working tirelessly to improve the lives of residents. For me, being a councillor isn’t just about policy, it’s about people: ensuring that every voice is heard, every concern is taken seriously, and every opportunity is pursued to make our community stronger and fairer.

As a proud member of the Labour Party, my values are rooted in fairness, equality, and social justice. I am committed to defending and improving our public services, ensuring they remain properly funded and accessible to all. I believe that everyone deserves access to safe and affordable housing, and I work to champion initiatives that give families the security and dignity they deserve. I am also passionate about supporting young people, creating opportunities that allow them to thrive, and addressing the cost-of-living pressures that so many households face.

Our community deserves a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future, and I am determined to ensure that local decisions reflect that responsibility. Whether it’s tackling climate challenges at a local level, supporting small businesses, or promoting community cohesion, I believe in working together to deliver lasting, positive change.

I see my role as more than just attending meetings in the council chamber. It’s about being present in the community — speaking with residents, addressing their concerns, and making sure their priorities are represented. I want people to know that they have a councillor who is approachable, responsive, and committed to getting results.

My pledge is simple: I will always work hard for the people I represent, guided by Labour values and the belief that politics should be a force for good.

Beyond politics, I am proud of my roots in this community. I grew up here, went to school here, and I understand the challenges and opportunities that local families face every day. My professional and voluntary work before becoming a councillor taught me the importance of fairness, compassion, and hard work — values that I carry with me in public life. I am also a mother, daughter, and neighbour, and those experiences remind me daily of why I do this work: to create a community where everyone has the chance to succeed and feel proud to belong.