As your Parliamentary candidate for Dorking and Horley, I will dedicate myself to listening and engaging with our community. One concern stands out across conversations: a widespread sense of disconnection and apathy towards politics, affecting not just our young people but every one of us. It's clear that many feel overlooked by politicians, disillusioned by unfulfilled promises, and fatigued by what appears to be a relentless cycle of misinformation.
This growing apathy is a profound threat to the fabric of our democracy, which thrives on the active participation of its citizens. It's time for a new approach, one that reconnects all members of our community with the political process, based on honesty, transparency, and mutual respect.
Honesty and Transparency Across the Board
Transparency and honesty must be the foundation of our political engagement. The culture of vague promises and unattainable goals serves no one. My campaign is rooted in achievable objectives, emphasising straightforward communication about the challenges we face and the solutions we propose. Everyone deserves to know the truth about what can be achieved, the time it will take, and the cost involved.
Understanding Beyond Age
Understanding your candidates is crucial for every voter. I want you to see me not just as a name on a ballot or a colour for my party but as a dedicated member of our community, committed to addressing your concerns and improving our collective well-being. I pledge to make myself available, to engage in open dialogue, and to listen to and learn from you, regardless of age or background.
Empowering Through Education and Engagement
Empowering our community through education is essential in combating political apathy. It's vital that all members of our society are equipped with the knowledge to critically evaluate political information, understand the power of their vote, and see the direct impact of policies on their lives. I support initiatives aimed at enhancing understanding of the democratic process and encouraging active participation from all age groups.
Leveraging Technology for Wider Engagement
In our mission to reconnect with every member of our community, leveraging technology plays a pivotal role. It offers us unprecedented opportunities to engage in real-time conversations, share information broadly, and create platforms for direct participation. I am committed to harnessing the power of social media and digital platforms to make politics more accessible and engaging for everyone. Through these channels, we can host virtual online meetings,, interactive Q&As, and provide up-to-the-minute updates on our campaign’s progress and initiatives.
However, I am acutely aware that not everyone is comfortable or familiar with online engagement. Digital access and literacy vary across our community, and it's important that we do not leave anyone behind in our efforts to foster a more inclusive dialogue. Recognising this, I am equally committed to providing ample face-to-face opportunities for those who prefer traditional means of communication. Whether it be town hall meetings, doorstep conversations, or community events, one-on-one meetings with me, I pledge to be there, listening and engaging with you on your terms.
I understand the value of personal interaction and the trust it builds. Therefore, my campaign will ensure that engagement opportunities are diverse and tailored to meet you where you are most comfortable. Whether online or offline, your voice is important, and I am dedicated to hearing it.
Engagement is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. I am here to engage with you in whatever way you prefer, recognising the importance of flexibility in fostering a truly inclusive community dialogue. My commitment is to be accessible, responsive, and present in all forms of interaction, ensuring that every member of our community feels heard, valued, and empowered to participate in shaping our shared future.
Creating Opportunities for Participation for Everyone
I believe in creating opportunities that allow every member of our community to actively participate in shaping our future. This includes supporting initiatives that offer a platform for voices to be heard, from youth councils to forums designed for more senior residents. Every perspective is valuable and can contribute to a richer, more inclusive understanding of the issues we face.
As your Parliamentary candidate, my mission is to bridge the gap between the community and politics, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. This isn't just about re-engaging our youth; it's about reinvigorating our democracy for everyone who calls Dorking and Horley home. I am here to listen, to understand, and to take action.
I am Marisa Heath, and I am asking for your support to create the change our community needs. Let's reconnect with politics, together, and forge a future where every voice matters, every concern is addressed, and every vote makes a difference.