Matthew was asked to answer this question- You should vote for me in the Llantarnam election because– and this is his answer.

You should vote for me in Llantarnam ward because I believe that Torfaen can be a fairer place to live and work, and if elected I will work every day to achieve that.

My name’s Matthew Woolfall Jones and I live in Oakfield in Llantarnam.

Llantarnam is a fantastic place to live, with fantastic people and a fantastic community spirit. I’m standing for Plaid Cymru because I believe that there is a different way to address the challenges that we face – a fairer way. It would be an honour to represent our community on Torfaen County Borough Council.

Llantarnam is one of the largest and busiest wards in Torfaen, and it needs a community champion that will work for all parts of the ward – helping to solve local issues and raise matters directly on your behalf.

In the past few weeks, I’ve been trying my best to knock on every door in the ward. I think it’s important that you get to know who could represent you, so here’s a bit about me:

I was born and raised in Pontypool, and I work in the Welsh Parliament where I have over five years’ experience of working as a caseworker. I’ve helped people particularly with complaints to the council on a wide range of issues, from the standard of social housing to education and highway maintenance.

I’m standing for election in Llantarnam because I want to get things done for our community.

We are currently in a cost of living crisis, with costs to households rising very steeply. I think that the council should do all it can to help those who need support, from individuals and families to locally-based businesses and community groups. If elected I will do all that I can to make sure that council resources are used to help those who need it.

One of the reasons I’m standing for Plaid Cymru is that it is making a difference for all in Wales. By working with the Welsh Government, Plaid has managed to secure some life-changing policies that will help many, many families through this tough financial time.

Something to be aware of is that due to Plaid Cymru all primary school children in Wales will receive free school meals from this September onwards. It will take away stigma and the worry of hunger for over 1,300 pupils in Torfaen and let them concentrate on learning. It will also clear school dinner debt, and help save young families around £50 a week.

Plaid has also managed to secure free childcare for all two year olds, and is taking action on housing to help young people afford to live independently in their own communities. In these incredibly difficult times, Plaid are looking out for all people in Wales.

But there’s always more to do, and I’m eager to get stuck in.

Here are my main priorities if I’m elected on May the 5th:

1) Limit costs for you –

The Council should be doing all it can to help residents with the cost of living. That’s why I’ll oppose any further rises in council tax and continue to find ways to help with costs like extending Free School Meals to secondary schools.

2) Give you a voice –

I want the Council to consult with residents more about the issues that matter, that’s why I’ll hold regular surgeries in each part of my ward to listen to concerns and help solve local issues. I’ll keep people informed of the Council’s work and will always be available to discuss any issues of concern.

3) Help our community thrive –

I’ll support our community, our older people and our people in need. I’ll also work to provide opportunities for our younger people to live, learn and thrive in Torfaen.

I want to help all people who live here – individuals, small businesses and community groups – whoever you are and wherever you live in Llantarnam, I’m determined to be an effective councillor for all residents and I hope that you will be able to give me your support.

Llantarnam residents will get three votes this time. If you like what I stand for, then I’d really appreciate one of your votes.

Click here to read a full list of all the candidates standing in the Torfaen County Borough Council elections on Thursday 5 May 2022.