Politics today suffers from a pervasive lack of trust, particularly in the two mainstream parties, driving many toward other alternatives like -dare I say - Reform. For the Conservative Party, this challenge is especially pronounced: we must reconnect with our roots and redefine our brand. This rebranding must begin at the top but, more importantly, filter down to resonate authentically with people at the grassroots level.
Rebuilding trust requires more than rhetoric; it demands consistency, transparency, and tangible actions that reflect our core values. Without this, we risk not only losing members but also discouraging talented women from stepping forward to stand for public office.
Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful. Women are vital to politics, bringing unique perspectives and skills. But too often, barriers prevent them from stepping into these roles. These challenges must be addressed if we are serious about creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in public life. Among the most significant barriers are:
1. Addressing Racism, Misogyny, and Disrespect
One of the most common questions I hear is, “How do you deal with racism, misogyny, and similar challenges?” Unfortunately, these issues are deeply embedded, not just in politics but in many institutions. The constant undermining, disrespect, and double standards women face are degrading and exhausting.
These behaviours are not exclusive to any one party, but they must be acknowledged and tackled if we want to create a healthier political culture. While we cannot control how others behave, we can control how we respond.
These challenges are rarely personal but stem from a competitive culture in politics where one person’s success is seen as another’s failure. As women, we must remind ourselves that our voices matter. Change cannot happen unless we step forward and take action. By standing up, speaking out, and persevering, we pave the way for the next generation of women leaders.
2. Balancing Roles and Building Resilience
For many women, the biggest barrier to participating in public life lies in balancing multiple roles—mother, wife, professional, and public servant. Political life often demands evening meetings at times when many women are managing family routines, like preparing dinner, helping with homework, or putting children to bed. Teachers, for instance, are marking papers and planning lessons for the next day.
These overlapping demands make it difficult for women to step into political roles without risking their well-being. Women often approach every responsibility with 200% commitment, and when they feel they cannot give their all, it weighs heavily on them. Dropping the ball feels like an unacceptable option, but when it does happen, where is the support structure to catch us? Too often, that support is insufficient or entirely absent.
Women in political groups often shoulder disproportionate responsibility, acting as “fixers” who carry the weight of others. This dynamic needs to change. Support structures must be strengthened, and group cultures should foster genuine solidarity. No one individual should bear the collective burden, and no one should feel isolated in their struggles.
Change takes time. We cannot wave a magic wand to create a more supportive culture overnight. But we can control how we respond, how we manage our energy, and how we lift each other up. Women are among the most resilient individuals I know. We juggle children in one hand, work in the other, kick a football, and still find the strength to lead.
But resilience alone is not enough. We need systems and cultures that actively support women in leadership roles. By fostering mutual understanding and solidarity, we can create an environment where women feel empowered and supported in balancing their many responsibilities.
3. Supporting Women in Local Governance
A significant barrier for women considering roles in local governance is the lack of adequate financial support. These roles are often treated as part-time, yet the demands far exceed part-time hours. If local governance were paid sufficiently to be a primary job, it would open the door for a broader range of candidates, particularly women, to commit fully to these roles without juggling multiple jobs or financial pressures.
Until systemic changes are made, practical solutions are necessary. Meetings should be scheduled at reasonable times to accommodate caregivers. Late evenings or times that clash with family routines must be reconsidered.
Institutions must also provide tangible support for working parents, especially mothers. This could include offering areas where children are welcome, creating a creche at council buildings, or providing childcare during meetings. These measures would help remove a significant barrier for women who are forced to choose between family responsibilities and civic engagement.
By implementing these changes, local governance can set a powerful example, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and the value of women’s contributions.
The Call to Stand
To all women considering politics: your voice is needed. Your perspective is vital. If we want to see change, we must be the ones to make it happen. That begins with standing up, even in the face of challenges.
The road ahead is not easy, and attitudes will take time to shift. But we are the change-makers. Our strength lies in our ability to persevere and lead by example. Together, we can overcome these barriers—not just for ourselves, but for the generations of women who will follow.
