Val O’Flynn, TUSC candidate, Heneage ward, Grimsby

The 2016 local elections will be the fourth the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition has contested in Grimsby and we’ve gained experience from each one.

In 2015 we stood in every seat being contested: two parliamentary candidates and all 15 council wards. Within weeks we had a council by-election. It was hard work but was successful in gaining us recognition across the whole of North East Lincolnshire. So it was important to build on that and there was no question that this year, we would stand in all 12 seats.

TUSC in the local paper

TUSC in the local paper   (Click to enlarge: opens in new window)

Coverage in the local paper helps to get us taken seriously, but it’s the stalls and canvassing that are vital in being able to explain our policies, connect with the issues that concern people and answer their questions.

The Socialist is a great tool and being able to point to relevant articles really helps the conversation along. It also helps that we are seen on the streets all year round and not just election time.

People are definitely more interested in politics during elections and easier to talk to, so we get out every chance we can, even if there’s only two or three of us – and it’s fun.

It’s clear that the mood is changing and anger at the government and local councillors doing the government’s dirty work is increasing.