Cllr Emily Benner

I moved to Croxley Green (from Rickmansworth) in summer 2017 with my husband Jan and cat Monty. I was so inspired by the great work of the CGPC I was keen to get involved at the first possible opportunity, co-opted into a casual vacancy in February 2018. I was grateful to be re-elected in 2019 (thank you to everyone that voted!), appointed vice chair of the Leisure, Events & Environment committee and shortlisted for the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) Young Councillor of the year 2019.

My passion has always been getting involved within the community and helping others. Since 2015 I’ve been organising company and Christmas gift donations to people in local care homes with no loved ones. Last year over 200 very kind and generous volunteers supported me in donating, wrapping and distributing gifts to 575 people across 42 care homes.

My interest in local government started as a teenager, previously completing work experience at the House of Commons, and sitting on the Youth Citizens Panel for London. However I was put off by the political party system. It’s great that all the councillors in Croxley Green are independent meaning we can truly represent our community.

It’s not taken long for me to feel an immense amount of pride for living in Croxley Green and appreciate the friendly village atmosphere – something which I’m keen to maintain for my future children and grandchildren. I’m keen to encourage people (particularly young people) to get more involved in the community.