Lib Dem Group on Barnet Council grows again - Cllr Helene Richman joins from West Hendon

Barnet Liberal Democrats are thrilled to welcome Cllr Helene Richman (West Hendon) to the Liberal Democrats as of this week. She is a fabulous and relentless campaigner for West Hendon residents, and will be re-standing in the ward so she can carry on her outstanding work on behalf of all residents.

At a launch event held on 3rd April outside the West Hendon Community Hub, Cllr Richman said:

"Four years ago, you, the wonderful people of West Hendon, elected me Councillor. You put your trust in me. In return, I have dedicated myself, heart, and soul, to you and to improving your lives.

"What a journey it has been. From saving the Midland Pub, to campaigning against closing our police hub, fighting for a replacement across the street, and more police. Fixing our streets and keeping them clean. Monthly walkabouts. Tackling fly tipping. Getting parking and traffic safety surveys across the ward. And there is still so much to do.

"But now, I'm watching as the Conservatives are letting inequality rise and living standards drop. They have given up on communities like ours.

"And so today I am announcing that I have resigned from the Conservative Party, and joined the Liberal Democrats, so that I can continue to work to bring the community of West Hendon together. The Lib Dems believe in giving voice to communities like West Hendon. Like me, the Lib Dems believe in a fair and just society. Where everyone, no matter their background, feels comfortable and supported.

"That's what I've always worked for. I founded the Food Bank on Montagu Rd and have worked for four years on the regeneration of West Hendon Broadway. We have had Diwali lights and Christmas lights, a Carol Service and a Christmas Party which I provided the food for and helped run. I am currently helping with an Eid celebration. Our multi-cultural community has become one family."

On her brave decision to join the Liberal Democrats, she said, "Democracy is about the will of the people, and the respect for the people by those in power. The Lib Dems are the party of the grass roots, of local champions. That's what I stand for. Everyone knows I am at the end of a phone, or keyboard, ready for action."

Cllr Gabriel Rozenberg, Leader of the Lib Dem Group on Barnet Council, said, "Voters in West Hendon, whoever they typically vote for, should lend a vote to Helene." He added, "Our movement is gaining strength. The Lib Dems were already the only council group in Barnet that increased in size over the past four years. Now we've done it again.

"Across the borough, more and more people are turning to the Liberal Democrats to stand up for their community."

Next month, as West Hendon constituents cast their three votes in West Hendon, they can lend the Liberal Democrats one of those votes, and re-elect Helene, a local champion, and continue this journey together.

Press coverage of this exciting news can be found in Jewish News and On London. The full video of Cllr Richman's launch speech can be found on Twitter.