Councillor Pauline Halfpenny

What made you decide to become a councillor?

I had been politically active for many years and I came to a crossroads in my life when I felt I needed to get more involved in Local Government. This would allow me to help people with their genuine concerns and problems.

Who is your female role model and why?

My role model is my mother. Since I was very young she was involved in politics and was a kind and compassionate person, who many came to for help. I just regret that she died before I was elected as a Councillor to Cumbria County Council and also before I received the MBE from the John Major Government to reflect my work in politics and with the community.

Why is it important to have women councillors?

Obviously women can give the female perspective of a strategy or situation but I believe that men and women are EQUAL and that it would be wonderful if there were more women in the Council. I should like to see women’s representation to be at least 50%. At the moment, I feel that women’s voices are not always fully listened to and considered.

100 years on what are the battles still to be fought?

I have been a Councillor since 1985 and the number of women in the Council Chamber has reduced since then. We definitely need more female representation and SOON.

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