The Democratic Network is a new registered political party with candidates standing in six counties. They aim to:
- Make it easier for politically neutral candidates to stand in local elections
- Help those candidates get elected
- Support them once elected.
Nigel Jacklin is a statistician, market researcher and recording artist. Below is an interview with Nigel, Leader of The Democratic Network and is standing in Bexhill St Marks ward.
“Our party promise is to represent local people and businesses, regardless of their political views. We will only contest local elections. No ties to Westminster parties will mean we can do the job without any political interference”
Nigel, you will be standing as a Democratic Network candidate in the East Sussex County elections. What is The Democratic Network?
We are a new political party contesting the local elections across the UK. I founded the party with my wife Sheila. Our party promise is to represent local people and businesses, regardless of their political views. We will only contest local elections. No ties to Westminster parties will mean we can do the job without any political interference.
Why do you want to be a Councillor?
There will be opportunities and challenges over the next four years. Helping local businesses recover from the last year will require some clear and fresh thinking in the ‘Economic Development’ department. That’s my main skill. Health and education will be important too.
How is the Democratic Network different to other parties or independent candidates?
Once elected our promise is to be fully representative, accountable and practical. That’s our party promise. We’ll work for everybody. Our proposals include expert panels and regular dialogue with residents and businesses. We are fairly serious, but we do know how to have fun!
“My job is to understand what people want, what will work and to help organisations make better decisions. I’ll bring a fresh approach, balancing the need to look to the future whilst maintaining what’s precious to us”
Tell us a little about your background; what qualifies you to be a Councillor.
My wife Sheila and I moved to Normans Bay in 1992 where we raised our family. We liked the sea, countryside and the friendly people. By trade I am a statistician and market researcher. I worked with Didier Truchot, founder of top market research company Ipsos, before setting up my own business here. I’ve worked for clients like the Financial Times, the British Medical Journal, MTV and local telecare company Doro. My job is to understand what people want, what will work and to help organisations make better decisions. I’ll bring a fresh approach, balancing the need to look to the future whilst maintaining what’s precious to us.
Are there any local issues or organisations of particular importance to you?
We’ve helped college students with work experience and developed a guide to the World of Work with East Sussex County Council and the Financial Times. I’m a member of the Bexhill Chamber of Commerce and the De La Warr Pavilion. I’m a Sussex representative of the British Astronomical Associations Commission for Dark Skies. East Sussex is a beautiful place. I want to keep it that way, whether that be by everyday beach cleaning or in other ways.
What makes you happy?
My family. Going to the beach near our house. Wildlife and plants growing in our garden.
How can people help or get in touch?
Anyone who wants to help, has a question or a point to make can:
- email [email protected]
- find out more on their website www.TheDemocraticNetwork.org
- or visit their Facebook page (The Democratic Network – East Sussex)
- Nigel is also on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TheGoodStatsMan
DEMOCRATIC NETWORK CANDIDATES – Standing in the County Elections 6th May 2021
| Angela Marynicz | Devon |
| Nigel Jacklin | East Sussex |
| Leah Butler-Smith | Essex |
| Paul Stevens | Essex |
| Venetia Carpenter | Kent |
| Ewen Garrod | Trafford |
| Jonathan Lea | West Sussex |
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