Camden Lib Dems launch manifesto plans for more police and dementia nurses

It was a case of the Liberal Democrats preaching to the converted, as they launched their elections manifesto at St James’ Church in West Hampstead last night.

The evening was attended by 50 activists and candidates, and included a visit from businessman Dinesh Dhamija, who sits on the party’s federal board.

Candidates Tracey Shackle, James King, Stephen Crosher, Catherine Hays and Kushal Bhimjiani all gave speeches on the 40-page manifesto, titled ‘Open, Vibrant, Inclusive’.

Ms Shackle, who is standing alongside Lib Dem leader Flick Rea, and Adrian Bridge in Fortune Green said the party back plans to boost police on Camden streets, and boost youth provision.

“We hope to fund 20 more police and community safety officers, and extend youth services across the borough. I work with young people on a daily basis, and we need to support them and their families,” she said.

The party also plan to provide specialist community led dementia nurses, with Kilburn candidate James King saying health and social care was a Brexit issue, because of the international background of many nurses and NHS staff.

Party leader, Cllr Rea, who is bidding to be re-elected onto the council for the eighth time, conceded the party were unlikely to take control of the council, but said next month’s election could be a stepping stone for 2022.

“Go back to your wards and campaign your socks off,” she said. “So in four years time I can stand here and know we can take over Camden.”