Hollinwood Labour chooses Hannah Roberts to stand in by election

Hollinwood Labour has chosen Hannah Roberts to stand in the by election on November 17 for the Council seat left vacant by the sudden death of Councillor Jean Stretton.

Ms Roberts said: "Jean worked tirelessly for Hollinwood and was a popular Councillor.

"She helped many local residents as well as supporting the work of the Oldham Credit Union and the foodbank which have both made a real difference to many residents.

"I am honoured to have been chosen by Hollinwood Labour as their candidate, but I am truly sorry that the by election is taking place after her death.’

Ms Roberts was a Councillor for Royton North from 2014 to May this year.

She served as the Deputy Cabinet Member responsible for Early Years and more recently as the Cabinet Member for Housing.

She promoted early education for children and supported the work done in Hollinwood and across Oldham to help under fives get the best start in life.

Ms Roberts led work on Oldham’s Housing Strategy pushing hard for more homes people can afford to rent.

Work has now started on mixed developments in Derker and Southlink which include affordable homes, and the Council is planning to build adapted homes at a social rent on small sites across the borough.

Holly Bank Apartments, providing 20 homes for adults with learning disabilities in Limeside, was completed in 2020 and residents have moved in over the past two years.

Ms Roberts added: "I know how difficult many people are finding it to make ends meet because of sky high gas and electricity bills and rising prices for the weekly shop.

"The Tories have made matters worse by their botched mini-budget making interest rates rise.

"Mortgages are going up and so are private rents.

"I really worry how some people will cope this winter.

"Oldham Labour Council’s ‘We can help campaign’ is helping as much as possible, but the Tories aren’t making this easy.

"A good result for Labour in Hollinwood will send the Tories a strong message that that people value help for local residents and reliable public services over tax cuts for the rich."

She continued: "The most rewarding thing about being a Councillor is being able to help people with their problems and making sure they get the best deal.

"I will work hard for Hollinwood and everyone who lives here.’

Cllr Kyle Phythian said: “Hannah’s experience will be a vital asset for both our team and more importantly the people we represent, especially during the current series of crises set upon us by the government.

"Hannah will get things done for Hollinwood, not only is she the right choice, she is the only choice for our area.”

Cllr Steve Williams added: “Being able to work as team is important for me as a councillor, I am confident that Hannah will fit into our team and do the job well.

"Hannah has masses of experience as a councillor and will be a credit to Hollinwood and serve our residents well.

"Hannah is the best choice for Hollinwood."

Ms Roberts is a Trustee of Positive Steps, an Oldham Charity helping young people and a school governor.

She is an Independent Member of Oldham’s Foster Panel assessing people who want to foster for Oldham.

She has also volunteered at Oldham foodbank and in July organised a Tea for Trussell event, raising money for the Trussell Trust.

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