Councillor Jagdish Sharma (Lab), 89, a former Mayor, Leader, and Leader of the Opposition at the London Borough of Hounslow, is celebrating 50 years as a member of the council
Why did you become a councillor?
I came to England in 1965 to work, as did so many others, but the early 1970s saw a backlash against immigration. As an Indian, I wanted to integrate with and contribute to the local community. I believe this helps cohesion, as people learn to share ideas and see different perspectives. I believed that if I could improve people’s lives, then our society would be more harmonious, and our contribution recognised and valued.
How are things better/worse than when you started?
Things are better in the council because the leader and the cabinet have more power and can make decisions quicker.
I think, now, that Hounslow is a better place to live. The council is more efficient and has provided better services over the years. That is not to say there are not problems, and citizens can feel aggrieved, but the council and its staff are dedicated, conscientious, hard-working, take great pride in their work, and try their best.
Have you enjoyed being a councillor?
I have enjoyed every minute of it. It has given me immense pleasure in serving the community and helping so many people, and making their lives better. I feel energised by the challenge. I feel so grateful when members of the community appreciate what I and my colleagues have done.
Would you recommend being a councillor to others?
Yes, absolutely. It is a matter of great pride to serve your fellow brothers and sisters. For many people, life can be a struggle and to help them is a sheer joy.
What advice would you give to newly elected councillors?
From your actions show to people that you genuinely want to serve them. Win their confidence and support your new colleagues. Choose an experienced person as your mentor and be accessible to them. Study new books and ideas: the LGA has resources, and borrow whatever you need.
How do we encourage more people from ethnic minority communities to stand as councillors?
I have seen over time people of different communities become councillors, so I do not think this is an issue in Hounslow. The key, though, is that, as a councillor, they serve all communities and not just their own.
What is the one thing as a councillor you are most proud of achieving?
I have been able to help elderly people get a purpose-built day centre – the Wellington Day Centre. Elderly people come to play games there. Guest speakers also come to give advice on so many issues, from health to the community. Now people spend their time usefully and enjoy their leisure time in the company of others.
What needs to change to help local government?
How money is distributed between central government and local authorities is not fair and needs to be reviewed. With a fairer funding system, councillors will be able to perform their duties better and constituents will see real improvements in their lives. This, to me, is the purpose of politics.