We're proud because Lewisham represents what's best about Britain - that our tolerance, respect and diversity make our borough a great and strong community to live in. We know we need to work hard to maintain and develop our community, and that people want to feel safe and proud of the areas they live in.

People often say, 'we want more of a sense of community', and Labour in Lewisham agree. We want to build a strong sense of identity so that our community is strengthened by a common bond. That's why we make a great effort to get behind those who do make a difference, and go the extra mile to bring people together, whether it's our citizenship ceremonies, our celebration of Lewisham's armed forces, our work with young people and community groups, or the local assemblies - all across our borough people are getting involved and making a difference.

Labour are bringing Lewisham together:

Helping community groups

Your Labour Councillors know the important job that local charities and voluntary organisations do in improving the lives of the people of Lewisham. Between them your Labour Councillors are members of, or serve on the boards of over 90 different charities or non-government organisations including church boards, The Royal Astronomical Society, Noah's Ark Children's Venture, Sydenham & Forest Hill societies, Lewisham MENCAP, Lewisham Anti-Racist Action Group, Age Concern, London Youth Games, the Lavender Trust, and many many more.

Because your Councillors are active in your community, they know how important the role of local organisations are.

"I was proud when the Mayor launched the Pensioners Manifesto during the last administration. When he was re-elected last May, and mindful of the promise he made in that manifesto, he appointed me the first ever Cabinet Member for Older People. Lewisham is the only Council in the Country who have a Cabinet Member specifically looking out for the interests of its older residents. I lead the Older Peoples Advisory Group, which consists of representatives of all the accredited older peoples organisations in Lewisham. We meet up monthly to look at the work the Council are doing, and then discuss and make suggestions on how we can work together to benefit older residents."

Celebrating our armed forces

Lewisham Labour are proud of the contribution that the armed services from our borough have made.

Recently, Labour in Lewisham celebrated the return of army and territorial army soldiers who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan in a special Civic Reception at the Town Hall (see news article here )

Young Mayor's scheme

In 2002, Labour launched the Young Mayor scheme that gave young people in Lewisham a strong voice.

Lewisham was the first place in the world to directly elect a Young Mayor, and there's been international press coverage of our innovative and engaging scheme. Our Young Mayor has shaped policy here in Lewisham and has been invited to No. 10 to Chair a Cabinet meeting with the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown. You can find out more about Lewisham's Young Mayor at - http://www.binvolved.org.uk/