My Job

I'm not blogging about the job of being a candidate, but about the paid work I do to ensure we can pay the bills at the end of each month.

I work in the Press team for Parentline Plus which is a parenting support charity, and I have been doing so since August last year. As I've said time and again to anyone that knows me, this is the most enjoyable job I've had since I worked on security at my Student Union fifteen years ago, and some great experiences since then.

What makes a great job? I can tell you what doesn't. Selling crisps off the back of a car (1994 to 95) and giving financial advice (1995 to 97). I had trained to be a teacher and read PPE at University - selling Monster Munch and Doritos wasn't what I had anticipated doing with my life. While the Financial Advisor role I switched to was better, it wasn't sustainable. Frankly, I didn't believe in some of the stuff I was asked to sell under "best advice" guidelines.

However in 1994 the economy was still recovering from the last recession. A lesson many of today's students sadly look set to find out in the next few years, is that there isn't a lot of graduate opportunity when the economy is struggling. It took me until this decade to get employment that was worthwhile and felt like a contribution to society, as a social worker and FE/HE lecturer. I've worked in both sectors on and off for 8 years, trying to balance that work with my political activity, which has never been easy, time wise or financially.

I'm now on a 21 hour a week contract, working with some very positive and intelligent people who are trying to make a difference. I enjoy the Press work, which is something I learned to do while in the Greens. I'm also grateful for an understanding boss, which is why I'm blogging right now. My wife wasn't well today, and with a young baby to look after, there was no hesitation in letting me return home. The hours I've missed will be made up on Friday.

Flexibility in a job contract or in an employed role means flexibility both ways, not just for the employer. I'm lucky enough to have a job I enjoy, shows me flexibility, challenges me and allows me the time to campaign for election. I enjoy my work, but I'm very clear that on June 7th (results day from the election), the other work I've put in over the last nine years in politics may require me to take up an elected post. I'm ready and willing, but that decision will be up to voters in North West.