A teacher has been appointed the leader of the Labour Party in Seaham. Coun Rochelle Charlton-Lainé, 34, who has been a councillor for a year, was appointed leader of the Labour party.
The secondary school teacher has lived in Seaham for most of her life. She has said council transparency, support for young people and community safety are some of her key priorities.
Coun Charlton-Lainé said: "I became a councillor to help hold the current Conservative Government to account following its shameful handling of the pandemic and underwhelming free school meal offer to children nationally and locally. While all councillors must continue to do this, my main objective will be to improve the lives of all people in Seaham.
"As a teacher and mother, one of my main objectives will be to help our young people and provide the best possible outcomes for them as they live and thrive in our communities.
"We will engage with young people more and further enhance the strong sense of community we have in the area. I genuinely can’t wait to get started."
Coun Charlton-Lainé grew up in East Durham with her family living in the area for generations. Her grandad was the Colliery Overman at Dawdon Pit, where her father also worked. A secondary school teacher at Dene Academy, Coun Charlton-Lainé is responsible for aspects of students' social, moral, spiritual and cultural growth.
She is married with two children, aged three and seven, and is currently completing a Masters Degree in Senior Leadership & Business Management. In addition, she is also a school governor for Ropery Walk Primary School.
During the pandemic, she received recognition for her efforts working with students and staff to create over 2,500 pieces of PPE for the NHS and local care homes. MP Grahame Morris wrote to the Prime Minister to recognise her work, utilising recycled materials to create the safety equipment.
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