Residents of Mayhill in Swansea are talking about issues affecting them ahead of the general election. Anti-social behaviour, childcare costs, and drug misuse are among the concerns raised. It’s been three years since the area was hit by violence, with cars set alight, homes vandalised, and police attacked during two hours of rioting. Eighteen people were sentenced for their part in the disorder. The event began after a balloon release for local teenager Ethan Powell, who collapsed and died the day before, on 19th May 2021.
Locals of Swansea West, where Mayhill is located along with four other areas, criticised claims that Labour’s candidate was “parachuted” in for the general election. Residents say change is essential, no matter which political party is in power after 4th July. Illegal drug use is widespread, with reports claiming it’s available on every street. Beverly Williams, from Mayhill, says drugs are a problem across the city. She explains how drugs are easily accessible and present in the streets day in and day out.
The community has moved on after the riot, but anti-social behaviour in Townhill’s Phoenix Centre is still present. The lack of support for young people is a broader issue faced by families who are working and have little time to engage their children. Parents discuss the issue of childcare costs regularly at Sketty’s Cylch Ti a Fi nursery session.
Lizzie Lewis says healthcare is a vital issue for her in this election. While it’s a devolved issue for the Welsh government to handle, Lizzie says she knows what pressures GPs and doctors work under in Wales. She is also concerned about Welsh language education provision, which is in high demand but not enough provision. People in Morriston are worried about the waiting time for NHS treatments and hip replacements as many have mobility issues.
Swansea West constituency has the following candidates: Labour – Torsten Bell, Conservative – Tara-Jane Sutcliffe, Plaid Cymru – Gwyn Williams, Liberal Democrats – Mike O’Carroll, Reform – Patrick Benham-Crosswell, Green Party – Peter Jones, and Trade Unionist & Socialist Coalition – Gareth Bromhall
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