In this episode of Greens Rising, Jonathan sits down with Eaglescliffe West by-election candidate Danny Reed to talk about hope, housing and what it means to step up for your community for the first time.

Danny has lived in the area for ten years. He has delivered prescriptions in lockdown, run a community gym and youth arts projects, supported children through Happy Cactus and now works as a lecturer. Only a few weeks after joining the Greens, he is standing as the candidate for Eaglescliffe West.

They discuss why transport, housing and infrastructure are at breaking point locally, why young people give Danny hope for the future and how his life story – from the Army to amateur dramatics – has shaped his values and his decision to stand.

If you live in or near Eaglescliffe West, or you care about ordinary people stepping into politics with heart and courage, this one is for you.

Key themes

• Hope as a practical political strategy, not a fluffy slogan
• New housing without transport, services or affordability
• The power of local arts, gyms and youth projects in building community
• Young people as leaders on climate and justice
• What a proactive, listening councillor could look like in Eaglescliffe West

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