Josie Leibrandt is standing for Labour in Malvern Priory ward on May 2nd. Here Josie describes her background and sets out some of the issues she will prioritse if elected.

‘I live in Malvern and have three children at local schools. My background is in psychology with research work on autism and anxiety as part of my degree. I have a Masters in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, specialising in primates. I was the Director of Education for the environmental education programme Roots & Shoots in Germany, working for the environmentalist and UN Messenger of Peace, Jane Goodall.

I’m actively involved in Malvern community life, work in the town centre, am a member of the West Malvern Art Group and my family use our local resources at the library, The Splash, the theatre, Priory Park and The Cube regularly where I have recently applied to start volunteering on youth projects. Malvern has something special to offer and is such a warm and creative community. I would like to give back and help to maintain and improve it for you and your children. I would focus on reviving the high street and supporting local businesses, addressing transport and crime concerns, opposing the drastic cuts to education, addressing homelessness and other pressing social and health issues, encourage projects that bring the community and generations together and that will protect our green spaces and wildlife. Most of all I will listen and act for you.’