Over the last century, the Trade Union Movement has had the greatest impact on British political life. We helped form a party that brought about true public services like the NHS, social housing and championed social equality.

We still align ourselves to the 'Labour Party' while their core values remain the same as the CWU, public ownership of our utilities, just working conditions, helping the vulnerable and showing equality in all aspects of life. That's not to say we will support every policy brought forward by them but the majority are transferable across the political spectrum.

However the problem with Politics is the Politicians. They are only as good as the policies they champion and more importantly the results they achieve. This is more so at a local level, where they can be late to the party or miss it completely, as issues move far quicker than at national level.

As your Political Officer, my job is not just to listen but communicate the daily issues that affect our members and the wider community to the councillors and parties that can make a difference. Your levy payment pays for our seat at the table, which means our voice is heard and we can collectively hold them to account.