New councillor steps into the role with focus on young and vulnerable people

A new councillor who recently joined Melksham Town Council says she is keen to use the role to focus on young people and those who are vulnerable due to health conditions.

Emma Calland is one of two councillors who were recently co-opted onto Melksham Town Council and plans to use her professional expertise in teaching, mentoring, lecturing and running programmes for young people to make a difference.

She also lives with ankylosing spondylitis, Parkinson’s disease and other health conditions, and says she ‘truly understands’ the ‘significant downtimes and despair felt by residents with poor health.’

“I am looking forward to being part of the Melksham Town Council and being part of the team to continue the good work already happening,” said Emma.

“All too often, young people can be overlooked by older people and don’t feel integrated or properly considered. The same can be said of people who struggle with health issues. As someone with incurable serious health conditions that require a lot of treatment, rest and adjustments in order to function in any way, I feel I’m a natural advocate for anyone who feels slightly excluded and therefore powerless.

“Those who are vulnerable and identify as outsiders need more of an understanding voice in official structures such as a council.”