What are some challenges you believe you may face in this role?
I believe it might be a challenge to ensure that the groups BD Giving engages with are fully reflective of the borough’s diversity, in terms of age, ethnicity, religion etc. For example, having engagement from marginalised communities that are not traditionally represented in decision-making spaces, while very important, might be difficult due to spaces not being accessible. It can feel daunting at first to participate in spaces where you are empowered to influence funding decisions, as this is not typically the norm for residents. Therefore to address this, I think it’s about making the spaces as welcoming and accessible as possible by breaking down barriers where we can for people to engage.
Why does working in Barking and Dagenham interest you?
Given Barking and Dagenham’s predominantly young demographic, coupled with its growing cultural and ethnic diversity, I see the borough as a place full of potential and an opportunity for communities to come together and shape what the future of the borough could look like. This is the opposite to Plymouth, where I grew up and worked, which has an older and predominantly white population. I am therefore excited about this increase in diversity and the opportunity to engage with a wider range of cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Furthermore, the borough is in an exciting phase of regeneration and the focus on inclusive growth appeals and resonates with me.
What are your ambitions for the borough?
For people in the borough, especially young people, to feel that they have a voice and influence in the decisions about the area they live in. I would like to see structural inequalities being addressed through ideas designed by those affected by the issues, such as domestic abuse, homelessness, and poverty. Reducing social isolation is also something I’m passionate about, and so I would love for people to feel more connected to the communities they live in.
What role does the community have in realising that ambition?
The community have a central role in this. The residents of Barking and Dagenham are best placed to identify where local need is greatest and what strengths there are to build on. I believe change is most equitable and sustainable when communities who are affected by a problem are an active part in designing and delivering solutions.