You may have seen LWN’s recent media posts on the current Police and Crime Commissioner vacancies in England and Wales. Yvette Cooper MP, Shadow Home Secretary, has written the following message for LWN members on the importance of women standing as candidates for election on behalf of the Labour Party:

“Next year will see elections for Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in England and Wales. PCCs will have an impact on issues ranging from the number of police patrolling our streets, to improving street safety and funding domestic abuse prevention projects. These elections will be important for Labour, for community safety, and we need talented women to think about standing. …

I know that the Labour Women’s Network has worked with and trained some remarkably talented women since the general election, with women who have served in the armed forces and national domestic violence campaigners amongst the impressive alumni. That’s why I’m hoping some of these women will think seriously about standing next year.”

Training will be available for candidates who are selected to stand. We are also told that women wishing to stand for nomination may have the opportunity to talk through the process, and their application, in advance if they would find this helpful. We would strongly urge you to share this message with other Labour women, and to consider putting yourself forward for nomination.

For more information on standing as a Labour candidate, please email: PCC@labour.org.uk