Nadia Ditta, Socialist Party member and Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition candidate, is the main challenge to Labour in Bevois ward in Southampton.
This time at the door, we could proudly tell people that we saved The Venny adventure playground from Labour’s cuts. It has been restored and is being used by the community.
We can also tell people that our fight stopped the Labour council selling St Mary’s Leisure Centre. It is now having its roof fixed.
The anger with Labour is very evident at the door, frustration at Labour’s failings.
We came second in 2024. This was with determination and hard work.
And when we started canvassing this January, it felt easier than before. People now know who we are.
Rubbish litters our streets. Fly tipping is everywhere.
Labour have made things worse – hiking council tax, rents, and parking charges. Under Labour, the super-rich get richer. We get poorer. Why? Because when our communities need investment, Labour spends our money on wars.
We need investment, not cuts. Free bulk waste collections restored. CCTV and community policing under local democratic control. Safe spaces and youth facilities for Northam, Newtown, and Bevois.
All these fights have really connected me with my community. We all suffer with the mess our area has become.
I am asking the people I speak to: “Why is Bevois the most deprived ward in Southampton, but we have only ever had Labour councillors?” This has led to people to say they will vote for us.
Frustration is evident. People are fed up.
We have to knock on every single door. We have to speak to everyone.
We have to let people know that they can vote for an alternative, someone who will fight for them. These discussions are important.
The sense we have in the air is hope, that we can bring along real change. We can now somewhat visualise what a better Bevois would look like. Excitement is rising every day, that we can elect someone who will fight for us.
A win in Bevois could be a launch pad for what we can achieve across the country. I encourage everyone to come out and canvass with us. I don’t intend on taking my gloves off.
If elected in May, my first act will be a motion to the next council meeting in July, demanding free bulk waste collections are restored. Even if we don’t get elected, we’ll be protesting outside.
Jobs, homes, fully funded services for everyone. Let’s get it done!
