WE are delighted to announce that applications to stand as the Greater London Assembly (GLA) Constituency candidate for Greenwich and Lewisham are now open and we want to hear from YOU.

WE have already selected our Mayoral candidate, Professor Sue Black, and 11 amazing London-wide List candidates for the GLA Election in 2020, so now we must select a candidate to represent the Greenwich and Lewisham super-constituency. (The GLA divides London into 14 constituencies – Greenwich and Lewisham being one. There’s more information about how the GLA is elected here)

You could be part if this incredible GLA team – giving Londoners the opportunity to vote for equality next May.

To apply, you need to complete the application form for candidates by Friday 7th June 2019 and notify either Greenwich branch ([email protected]) or Lewisham branch (Lewisham@womensequality.org.uk) that you are interested in standing.

Key dates

Why should I apply?

This is a truly fantastic opportunity to stand with us and do politics differently. The decisions the Greater London Assembly makes are responsible for key aspects of London life, from transport to policing and the environment. By being part of the Assembly you can make a real difference to women’s lives. The process of putting yourself forward and standing as a candidate is an opportunity to gain invaluable experience in politics, and learn new skills, in what is always a supportive and inclusive environment. It’s a chance to get active, put your voice out there and stand against the two party politics that is currently putting our country and our community in crisis.

How do I find out more?

Come along to our Candidate Q&A meeting Wednesday 15th May at The Royal Standard, 7pm.

This informal meeting will be a great opportunity to speak to past and present candidates and find out more about what the role involves, as well as the election process. If you are unable to make the meeting, but would like to talk to someone, let us know and we can put you in touch with a candidate to chat.

What should I do now?

If you’d like to become a candidate, take a look at our key dates above and put them in your diary. You will need to complete an application form; this process is overseen by WE Central Office who determine whether you are eligible to stand in an election. Please let us know you are putting yourself forward for the Greenwich and Lewisham Constituency Candidate, either when you have submitted your form or when you have heard back from Central Office that you are able to stand.

WE want to do politics differently, to do this we need to represent the diversity of London better. We want to hear from candidates from all backgrounds and we actively encourage women who are BAME, LGBTQ, disabled or from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply. If you’d require additional help or financial support in your candidacy, please let us know and we will help in any way we can.

So what does a London Assembly Member do?

The London Assembly scrutinises the Mayor’s plans and policies on policing, transport, housing, the economy and more. The Mayor is the voice of the capital and is accountable for making the city a better place for all its residents. As the most powerful directly-elected politician in the UK, it’s important they are held to account for how their decisions and policies affect women by Assembly Members, as well as others.

As well as policy scrutiny, Assembly Members must be consulted by the Mayor on strategies. They also act as champions for Londoners by investigating issues that are important to the capital. Issues are investigated and policy is developed by cross-party committees.

Overall, the Assembly can press for changes to national, Mayoral or local policy. Being a London Assembly Member is a full-time, well-paid position. Take a look here to find out more: https://www.london.gov.uk/about-us