Hello,

I am Sojan Joseph, the Labour MP for the Ashford constituency.

I moved to Ashford in 2002 and have been living here with my wife and three children ever since, taking great pride in calling Ashford my home.  I  worked in the NHS for the past 22 years, primarily in mental health. My last role was the Head of Nursing, Quality and Patient Safety. I started my NHS career at the Arundel unit based in the William Harvey Hospital as a junior nurse. I have been able to undertake many academic qualifications whilst working in the frontline, the highest being a master’s degree in Health Care Leadership.

My lived experiences in the NHS, interactions with the patients and families as well as educational opportunities have all contributed to developing a greater insight into the issues that matter most to the people. Consequently, a desire to develop practical solutions with collaboration and innovation has led me to this current political candidacy.

I believe that the MP for Ashford should be visible and stand up for the community. Someone who should address the problems that matter to the people of Ashford such as improved access to GP, Dental and hospital services, pothole-free roads, revitalising the town centre and bringing back Ashford International.

I am a hardworking, motivated and resilient individual who goes above and beyond to achieve the goal that is set with a purpose, be it in my personal, professional or public life. I am determined to make changes that bring efficiency in public services.

My priorities as your Labour MP, combined with our mission for a Labour government are to;

1. Rebuild our NHS by:

• Improving access to mental health services
• Quicker access to GP and Dentistry services
• Reduce NHS waiting times.
• Use of technologies for early diagnosis and treatments.
• Collaborative working with social care for safe hospital discharges.

2. Make safer streets through:

• More neighbourhood policing and PCSOs on our streets
• Preventing youth crime
• Tackling violence against women and girls.
• Police and criminal justice reform

3. Breakdown barriers to opportunity:

• Support families with a modern childcare system
• Breakfast clubs in every primary school
• More teachers in classrooms
• Enhanced curriculum with digital and speaking skills
• More apprenticeships

4. Create a Long-term plan for sustainable and affordable clean energy:

• Form publicly owned Great British Energy
• Create national wealth fund
• Clean power by 2030
• Warmer homes

5. Support economic growth and stability

• Work with local government to revitalise Ashford town.
• Improve transport infrastructure
• Create opportunities for new businesses.

I have served the NHS for the past 22 years and am now honoured to serve you in parliament.