Batley & Spen is Kim’s home, and growing up here has shaped who she is today.

From attending Heckmondwike primary and grammar school, to working in local shops and becoming an exercise instructor – Batley & Spen has given Kim the opportunities to thrive. Now, she wants to give back to the place that gave so much to her and her family.

Following her decision to return to learning at 25, Kim has always been an advocate of second chance education .

After qualifying as a teacher, Kim began lecturing at Kirklees College in Dewsbury and Bradford College. There she became Course Leader for the BSc in Physical Activity, Health & Wellbeing. Kim then set up her own fitness and wellbeing business, teaching classes across Batley & Spen.

Kim has always worked to bring people together. Becoming an Ambassador for the Jo Cox Foundation cemented her deep sense of community spirit.

When the pandemic hit, Kim stepped up for Batley & Spen. She coordinated and supported growing mutual aid groups in the area. The team has supported over 700 local people with support requests, assisting with shopping or befriending calls.

Since March 2020, Kim has raised £53,000 in direct support for the most vulnerable. Creating and distributing welfare packs for families and older people, Kim’s team made sure no-one in the community was left behind. To ensure people across Batley & Spen had online access through the crisis, she also championed a digital inclusion project.

In the 2021 New Year’s Honours List, Kim received an MBE for her dedication to social cohesion and combating loneliness over this past year.

As our next Member of Parliament for Batley & Spen, Kim will continue her work as a champion for our community.