The last few weeks have been a roller coaster for Handforth resident Mark Shields since appearing in the BBC documentary Famous, Rich and Jobless, which explored joblessness in Britain today.
Mark has been unemployed for over a year, since losing his £35,000 job as a Regional Manager for a car valeting company and he feels despite appearing in the BBC documentary his story has not been told. As a result Mark has been fighting to raise awareness of the real issues facing the unemployed in Britain today.
He has received apologies from the Department of Work and Pensions for the failings of Wilmslow’s Job Centre Plus and a letter from Shadow Chancellor George Osborne but talking about his most recent meeting with Job Centre Plus Mark said “I was given many promises but to date nothing has happened. I was promised they would make sure the government’s private agency Emplacement got in touch but I have heard nothing in nearly 2 weeks. I have tried so hard but seem to be getting nowhere fast. I am sick of being fed words, what I need is action.
“Even after all the publicity and meetings nothing has changed so I have now decided to take the matter to an independent case examiner and I have also decided to see how much support I can get to stand for election. I have been urged locally to do it so now I need the help of local people, businesses and the media to see if I can generate enough interest.”
Mark is fully committed and believes now is the time for less words and more action. “I have the energy and I am a fighter, I will not lie down, and I feel that these qualities can be put to good use serving the general public. If the Government will not listen, let's make it happen. I have decided I would like to stand in my local constituency as the party for ACTION.
“ACTION would be the party name, and I would promise ACTION on local issues, ACTION on jobs and ACTION on anti social behaviour.”
Mark describes himself as a “genuine family man” who has experienced many aspects of life, including bankruptcy, divorce and unemployment - all of which he has come through as a result of fantastic support from his family and friends. Now he wants to put his experiences to good use and help others.
Mark explained “ I need the help of local people and local businesses. My first target is to raise £150 so I can register the party for election, then I will have to raise £500 for my deposit, with any money left over being used for publicity.”
“If you want a genuine candidate look here, any help and support you can offer will be welcome. I am in a position where I have to ask for your help but the guarantee is you will have a person who will fight for your cause.”
Visit Mark’s blog for further information or email him if you would like to help.
