An introduction with Councillor Ollie Younge

Town councillor Ollie Younge, left, pictured with Councillor David Wilkinson

In a new series, we are featuring introductions to your Liberal Democrat councillors and candidates in Westhoughton. Next up is Ollie Younge, who is currently deputy town mayor.

What inspired you to become a town councillor?

It wasn’t always a burning ambition to become a town councillor.  I was quite happy working in the community as a volunteer, including actively fund raising.  

After over 25 years undertaking voluntary work, I wondered how different it would be to serve as a town councillor but wasn’t satisfied with what I saw at that time.  However, after observing the Liberal Democrat team, it soon became noticeable and inspiring who was the most active and approachable.  There was no hesitation in accepting an invitation to join the team in 2019.

Ollie as Deputy Town Mayor of Westhoughton, alongside Deirdre McGeown, the town mayor, following the death of Her Majesty

What are the most pressing issues facing Westhoughton?

The most pressing issues facing Westhoughton to date are the lack of improvement to the basic and essential services, and the restoration of community pride, given that Westhoughton has grown and is growing at an alarming rate.  Working with my colleagues in identifying areas in need of services and other important community involvement, is rewarding. 

Ollie puts up poppies in Daisy Hill to commemorate Remembrance Sunday

What’s the achievement you’re most proud of as a town councillor?

My biggest achievement as a town councillor, is having the honour to proudly represent Westhoughton as the Deputy Town Mayor.  I’m also proud to be selected to serve on the Executive Committee of Bolton Liberal Democrats as the Diversity and Inclusion Officer.  

Both appointments are important to me because it demonstrates the Lib Dems commitment to its policy that all are welcomed.  

It is also important that the community is represented at home as well as in other boroughs. 

Ollie carries out a litter pick with town councillor Arthur Price

How do you get involved with the community as a councillor?

Engaging with the community is something I have always encouraged and practiced, particularly face to face.  I have always considered it a duty to be visible, meeting and taking with people from every background, in every area, listening to their concerns and aspirations, having a friendly chat, following up enquiries and giving an honest response while respecting people’s request not to be identified.  

Engaging with the community includes, local shops, the market place, schools, church, Supermarkets, allotments, clubs and during my weekly walks around Westhoughton, and when necessary the concerns are discussed with colleagues for the most appropriate outcome.

Working with other Lib Dems councillors is particularly interesting, as each councillor have a particular skill, and a unique method of approach, which helps to enrich and strengthen the team.  It is particularly encouraging that the councillors in our team are approachable.  

It is always welcoming when working with business and organisations, be it as the community representative, listening to concerns or visiting an organisation during a community walkabout.

How do you find the time?

Commitment to my role as Town Councillor is never in question.  I make an effort to be available, especially for Town Council meetings, which is important for making decisions that might affect individuals or the community.  However, I always make sure the responsibilities in my personal life is never compromised.  I firmly believe that having a well organised work life balanced is important, because everyone is likely to benefit.  

My experience as a soldier has ensured a disciplined approach to community involvement.

Be honest with yourself and those you deal with, and put yourself in their shoes.

I will continue to serve and represent Westhoughton for as long as I’m able to.  

As a member of a team, I will continue to be involved with the initiatives, plans, activities and decisions that affect the community.