11 November 2022

My first meeting of the week was to welcome new Managing Director, Mike Greene. Myself, the Deputy Leader of the Council Councillor Lisa Evans, and the outgoing Managing Director Julie Danks met on Monday morning to formally welcome him to his role.

On Tuesday I attended the General Licensing Committee at Municipal Buildings, where we discussed the outcome of a recent consultation and resulting amends to the private hire and hackney carriage licensing policy. It is vital to review policies like these to reflect changes in the industry both nationally and locally.

Mid-week I had a training session to become a Dementia Friend. Dementia Friends is in initiative created and run by the Alzheimer's Society. It teaches people about dementia so they can help and contribute to their community. In my role as a Dementia Friend, I hope to raise awareness and understanding of the condition so that people living with dementia can continue to live the way they want to. Whether it's visiting someone with dementia and making sure they're comfortable or being more patient in a queue at the shop, it's an important role in understanding the condition in every-day life.

On Thursday I had some more training to help me in my role on the Council's Planning Committee. The committee considers reports detailing planning officers' recommendations in a public meeting and vote on each application. It is important that we are properly trained and informed to make the correct decisions for the Borough.

Today I'm catching up on some important paperwork after a busy week.

This weekend I look forward to relaxing with my family. I will be watching how Middlesbrough fare against Norwich, a tough opponent, on Saturday. I hope we will have a spring in our step following an excellent 3-0 away win against Blackpool on Tuesday, taking us 4 points clear of the relegation zone.

On Sunday I will be paying my respects for Remembrance Day at Stockton Parish Church. There are remembrance events happening all over the Borough, so please visit the Enjoy Tees Valley website to find out where your nearest service is.