With a working-class upbringing in Saltcoats I was the first in my family to go to university. I funded my way through by working in a call centre and stepped forward to become a union rep at 18.

People often underestimated me but I‘ve never been daunted by the challenge of fighting for basic rights.

I’ve since spent my entire working life in the trade union movement fighting for better rights for people at work. As Head of Local Government for UNISON Scotland, I’ve led negotiations for over 200,000 workers – putting more money directly into people’s pockets, through the best ever pay deals for our council workers.

I’m an active campaigner and if elected I’ll fight your corner at every opportunity.