Celebrating Our Local Economy

Our ward is made up of four unique villages: Whirlow, Bradway, Totley, and Dore. One of the things that makes this area so special is the fantasic local businesses.

There are so many reasons I chose to live here, but one that stands out is the incredible range of high-quality cafés and gastropubs right on our doorstep. It’s easy to take them for granted, but we are genuinely lucky. Alongside these, we have a fantastic mix of specialist boutiques, essential local shops, professional services, and independent retailers. All contributing to a thriving local economy and a better quality of life for residents.

And it doesn’t stop there. Many businesses in our ward are run from people’s homes. I understand this firsthand. My husband and I founded a tech start-up seven years ago, and even when we had an office in town, the heart of our business was always at home. I also run a small sole trader business officiating funerals. If you take a look on Google Maps, you’ll see just how many local enterprises are woven into our community.

These businesses don’t just provide services and jobs, they give back. Local sponsorship makes a real difference. Totley Library, for example, benefits from generous donations when running raffles and fundrasing events. Many sports team play every week in kits funded by local businesses.

I manage the Porter U8 girls foodball team, the Gold Stars. Their main kit was funded by Scriven’s Greengrocers in Totley, and their dry robes by Valerie’s of Dore Florists. The pride and enthusiasm it brings to the girls when they wear those kits is incredible.

Local businesses are the backbone of our community. If elected, I will champion them, because I understand them, I value them, and I will fight for them in Sheffield City Council.