On the weekend of March 22, I had my first experience of door-to-door campaigning for the local government elections. We were supporting John Howard, an excellent local council candidate in Aldborough Ward, Redbridge. Winning a council seat for John at this year’s local elections would be a first step towards winning back the crucial marginal constituency, Ilford North, in 2015. At present the Conservatives have a 5,000 strong majority here.
I was a little apprehensive at first, as I had never done any street campaigning before. However I was with the Young Fabians so from the outset I felt welcome. We were first sent an introductory pack explaining the “dos and don’ts” of door-to-door campaigning. After a fantastic training session, complete with a role-play session I was reassured, and ready to go. The group also allowed me to knock on doors with a buddy of my choice, making the whole experience far less daunting.
The experience provided me with an insight into the issues most affecting local people, from pot-holes, to benefit reform and the need for new local leisure facilities. Plus, the afternoon was great fun, rounded off with a much deserved pint at 'Spoons!
The next Young Fabian campaign day is on 19 April in Croydon Central. Contact Alvin Carpio ([email protected]) for more information