News / Bristol
New lord mayor of Bristol vows to tackle isolation
The new lord mayor of Bristol has vowed to tackle isolation among the elderly during her year as the first citizen of the city.
With all the grandeur befitting a tradition that dates back to 1899, Conservative councillor Lesley Alexander was elected into the ceremonial role at an annual meeting of the city council on Tuesday. The occasion was tinged with sadness as respects were also paid to the victims of the Manchester Arena attack.
“We would refer to her as the lady of the manor because she seems to know everybody,” said colleague Mark Weston as he proposed her appointment.
is needed now More than ever
Describing the Frome Vale ward representative as a rock, he reeled off her “impressive” track record of work for the council and wider community.
Former lord mayor Jeff Lovell hands over to Lesley Alexander
“I have chosen to concentrate on older people and those who are marooned in their homes because they are unable to get out and get help,” said Alexander.
“One of my ambitions is to make life much more enjoyable for people living in isolation.
“About three years ago, I started a social club for people living in isolation in my ward. We now have all the people we need to run the club.”
She added that in financially strained times, there is a need to be creative about the way resources are used, highlighting problems with transport for disabled people. But she expressed hope that, with a little help, more people across the city would be prepared to start similar groups.
“I would like to encourage people to get involved,” said Alexander, praising the work of Contact The Elderly, a charity that, among other things, finds a place for people to go if they are facing Christmas day alone.
Former lord mayor Jeff Lovell was elected into the position of deputy mayor. He said Alexander would be an ambassador for Bristol.
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