I’ve raised my family in Poole and now I want to make it better for yours

Meet Neil

I was born in the late sixties in the upstairs front bedroom of a terraced house in Elm Park, Essex. Both my parents were born in London's East End and my mother came from a Jewish immigrant family. My Dad, John, worked for British Rail and my Mum, June worked part-time in a shop. I had a good, solid upbringing in a loving environment that understood the importance of family and community - where we all looked after each other.

I went to university as a young father in my late twenties to study Journalism at Bournemouth. I was the first person in my extended family to get a degree. After a short spell in the media, I started work for Britain's biggest pensioner pressure group - the National Pensioners Convention. During this time, I regularly appeared in the media, gave evidence to select committees and drafted amendments to legislation in areas such as pensions and social care.

I am now working as a Regional Official for UNISON, representing nurses, teaching assistants, cleaners and refuse collectors. I have a strong track record of giving a voice to people to help them achieve dignity and security at work. I would bring this same level of experience and commitment to the people of Poole. Speaking up for others is part of my DNA.