Nov 2019
Local MP Candidates Visit The Coombs
The Coombs was delighted to welcome all four prospective parliamentary candidates in the Forest of Dean constituency into the home to meet with residents and staff.
This week The Coombs welcomed all four prospective parliamentary candidates in the Forest of Dean constituency into the home to meet with residents and staff.
Mark Harper (Conservative), Diana Martin (Labour), Chris McFarling (Green Party) and Julian Burrett (Independent) all found time in their busy campaign schedule to visit the home in Coleford.
Each candidate answered questions from residents and staff about their priorities in the constituency, with a focus on the care industry.
The Orders of St John Care Trust is running a campaign across all its homes to raise awareness of residents’ rights to have a voice in the upcoming election. All candidates have been invited into their local homes to ensure residents are able to make an informed decision. The Trust has also worked to ensure residents have the accessibility to register to vote and cast their vote on 12 December.
Mark Harper said after his visit: “I was pleased to be invited to speak to the residents and fantastic staff at The Coombs in Coleford this morning. It’s vital that all older people have the ability to cast their democratic vote, and I enjoyed speaking to residents and staff about the upcoming election.”
Diana Martin drew on her personal experiences when she stated that she “absolutely supported the campaign”. “Everyone should be entitled to a right to vote. I think back to when I was unable to speak during treatment for my brain tumour, so I completely understand where this campaign is coming from.”
Chris McFarling added: “The residents at The Coombs are part of society and our country and therefore have an equal right along with everyone else. Providing they are made aware of what each candidate stands for, they are perfectly entitled to cast their vote.”