Name – Helen McCabe
Political Party – Scottish Green Party
Ward – Colinton/Fairmilehead
What is your story?
I have a background in health policy and I currently work as a Researcher for the Scottish Greens’ Health and Social Care Spokesperson, Gillian Mackay MSP. I previously worked for Alison Johnstone MSP, before she became Presiding Officer, which is how I first became involved in politics.
A lot of my family are from Oxgangs and I moved back there for work in 2017 after leaving when I was 3 years old. I love the area and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else in Edinburgh. The landscape is so beautiful – it’s really something looking out your window and seeing the Pentland Hills practically on your doorstep.
What are the main issues you will campaign on – both as a party and personally?
Tackling the climate and ecological emergencies and ensuring the council’s target of being net zero by 2030 is matched by real action.
Investing in transport infrastructure that prioritises walking, wheeling and cycling over cars so everyone can enjoy and move around our capital with ease.
Making sure there are good quality homes that are actually affordable to rent or buy.
Ensuring there is good quality greenspace which is well maintained and accessible.
Expanding access to mental health support in local communities and improving the pay and working conditions for social care staff.
What do you consider to be your or your party’s achievements or legacy during the last council session?
They have shown real leadership on the climate – Green councillors led Edinburgh Council in declaring a Climate Emergency and setting a target of reaching net zero climate-changing emissions by 2030. They also supported climate strikers and secured authorised absence from school for young people to be able to attend climate strikes without it affecting their school record.
They have consistently stood up for local communities and pushed for action on short term lets, so the whole of Edinburgh will now be a short term let control area.
What is the thing that few people would know about you?
I rarely go up any of Edinburgh’s famous hills because I’m absolutely terrified of heights! I just stand at the bottom and admire them from there.
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