'As we brace for a 'Starmergedden', I can't help but question if my 12-hour shifts are worth it'

Our hard-earned taxes have been squandered, and so far, decisions made only highlight the disconnection with the reality of everyday life.

A deepening lack of trust in our political leaders feeds my despair as we approach looming announcements.

Politicians attending pop concerts and enjoying extended stays in luxury apartments seem utterly detached from the struggles faced by ordinary citizens.

Their rhetoric promises support for economic growth, yet their actions often leave us feeling hopeless, wishing we could wake up to find the recent elections and their aftermath were all just a bad dream.

As I work my 12-hour shifts, I can’t help but question if it’s even worth it.

As the nights draw in, many like me find it hard to stay motivated.

Conversations about the incoming budget reveal a collective anticipation of a disastrous event —a “Starmergedden” if you will—and we brace ourselves for the worst.

I dread what’s in store for us. Some of the more publishable comments I have when asking about the budget include:

‘’God help us cos the Government won’t."

‘‘I dread to think what they have in store."

‘’Expecting the worst."

‘’I think this will be the worst budget in history."

‘’I’m worried my bus pass will be the next thing stolen from me."

The weight of this budget and its implications is palpable. The prospect of increased taxation, when so many are already struggling, is alarming.

For those of us living in rural areas, the potential for increased car tax through pay-per-mile schemes or means-tested bus passes will directly impact our ability to commute, access essential services, and maintain our livelihoods.

This isn’t just about immediate financial implications; it’s about the erosion of our way of life, pushing many to the margins and further isolating our communities.

Labour claims to care for the people, yet their deep pockets for unions, foreign aid, and net zero deals seem to enrich their allies while leaving the rest of us poorer.

Their contempt for ordinary people is evident in their record of flip-flopping and bare faced lies. What we see now is just more of the same as our last government—more sleaze, more broken promises, and a hollow commitment to protect the very fabric of our communities.

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I am not here merely to criticise; I want to highlight a troubling truth: they don’t care! It’s time for accountability from our leaders.

As we face this storm together, we must demand more than empty promises and virtue signalling. Our communities deserve better.

I believe we can do more than grin and bear it, and that we must.

I have found a party that offers a place where I feel heard.

It brings me hope to be a part of something bigger, there is power in raising our voices together. I put my name in the hat and would do it again. What are you going to do?