An interview with The Chairman of Fleetwood Town Council, Councillor Cheryl Raynor

1. How did you get into politics? 

    

   "Twelve years ago my husband was having a difficult time claiming disability benefits. After getting frustrated at the way things were being handled, I spoke to then councillor Lorraine Beavers, who helped with the personal matter and also suggested joining the Labour Party to help others. And that's where it all began."

1. Why did you become a councillor? 

    

   "The reason I decided to become a councillor was to make things better for the residents of Fleetwood. I wanted to be able to help others and be a positive impact to people's lives."

     3. What does your role involve? 

"My role as the Chairman involves overseeing the role of the council and making sure everything is carried out inline with all the protocols and procedures and to also support my operations teams and fellow councillors. I'm also the public face of Fleetwood Council."

     4. What’s your favourite part about being a councillor. 

"One of my favourite parts about being a councillor is getting the opportunity to speak to people. I like when an event is put on, for example, the Queen's jubilee or the fireworks, and people leave positive comments on it. I also like when I help someone with a matter and we get the outcome we want."

      5. How do you balance work and home life? 

"Being a councillor means work and home life tends to overlap. I try not to look at emails outside of work hours, unless they're council ones that need to be addressed. It is difficult to balance since it's hard to shut off. I could get a phone call at 3am that I would have to answer, meaning I never really stop being a councillor. But I love what I do."