‘Hope not hate’ at the centre of Green party candidate’s pitch to voters ahead of Telford & Wrekin Council by-election

‘Hope not hate’ is at the centre of the Green party candidate’s pitch to voters ahead of a Telford & Wrekin Council by election.

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The Local Democracy Reporting Service has pitched a series of questions to all five candidates in the race to succeed Telford Labour MP and former council leader Shaun Davies in the town centre seat.

Jasmine ‘Jazz’ Holmes, a 28 year old married lecturer recently stood in the  Lightmoor parish council elections and was the first of the candidates to provide her set of answers.

When and why did you first get involved in politics?

As a sociology lecturer, I have always been politically minded and interested in how everyday lives are shaped by wider social issues. I care deeply about standing up for those who feel unheard. The Green Party appealed to me because of its focus on equality, sustainability, local democracy and compassion. I have been an active member for around a year, and it has renewed my hope in what politics can achieve.

Have you previously been, or are you currently, a councillor at parish council level?

No. I recently stood in the Lightmoor parish council elections, which was a valuable experience and taught me a lot about local campaigning, listening to residents and the democratic process. I’m excited to take those lessons forward in Malinslee and Dawley Bank.

Have you held other public positions, such as organiser or volunteer roles?

I have previously worked as a charity fundraiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Alongside my work as a lecturer, I am also a PhD researcher and have organised and contributed to academic and community events, particularly around equality, inclusion and LGBTQ+ issues.

Have you previously been a member of any other political party?

No.

Do you have any favourite hobbies?

A lot of my time is spent reading and writing as part of my PhD, but I also love countryside walks around Telford with my husband and our two dogs.

What pledges or promises are you making to the electorate?

My main pledge is to build stronger links between the local council and local people. I want residents to feel listened to, respected and able to raise the issues that affect their everyday lives. I would focus on practical concerns such as fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour, road safety and making sure residents know who to contact and how to have their voices heard.

If there was one local issue you could solve, what would it be, and why?

I would like to help tackle fly-tipping. It affects the local environment, but also how people feel about where they live. When rubbish is left in streets, green spaces or shared areas, it can make residents feel ignored and frustrated. Tackling it is about protecting the environment, improving pride in the area and making sure concerns are taken seriously.

If there was one national or international issue you could wave a magic wand and solve, what would it be?

I would want to end the weaponisation of marginalised communities. Too often, vulnerable groups are blamed or used as distractions while issues such as the NHS crisis, poverty, housing and the cost of living remain unresolved. I want to see politics rooted in care, dignity and practical solutions.

If you are unsuccessful, will you try again?

Yes. I believe my background in research, education and community-focused work gives me skills that could be useful in local council work. Whether I am successful this time or not, I want to keep contributing positively to my local community.

How will you be accessible to the electorate if you are successful?

I would want residents to feel I am approachable, visible and easy to contact, whether through email, local community groups or in-person conversations where possible. Accessibility is not just about being contactable, but about being genuinely willing to listen.

What is your pitch to the voters?

My message is hope, not hate. I am standing because I want to help people feel heard and represented. I care about fairness, inclusion and improving everyday life for local residents, and I want to work with people, not above them.

Why is this election important?

Local councils have a real impact on everyday life, from local safety and the environment to green spaces and community wellbeing. At a time when many people feel disconnected from politics, local elections are a chance to rebuild trust and show that politics can still be about people and practical change.

Is there anything else you would like to say?

I believe we can create a community that feels more connected, caring and hopeful about the future. For me, this is about listening to people, valuing community voices and working together for meaningful change.

The by election will be held on Thursday, July 2 and only electors who live in the ward will be able to take part.  There will be separate by elections on the same day for seats on Madeley Town Council and Hadley & Leegomery  Parish Council.

The candidates are:

• Ben Carter (Labour Party) of Springhill Road, Dawley,
• Telford.
• Patrick Jerome Doody (Liberal Democrats), address in Telford & Wrekin.
• Doug Halsall (Reform UK) address in Telford & Wrekin.
• Jazz Holmes (Green Party), address in Telford & Wrekin.
• Thomas Paul Hoof (Local Conservatives), address in Telford & Wrekin.

Only voters in the ward will be able to take part in the by election.