Kirsty Duncombe

Councillor in Bexley

I teach English in a secondary school and was 27 when I was elected. When I was at university I was politically active so it seemed like a natural step to get involved with local politics, and then to become a councillor.

I wanted to make a difference to my local community and the good thing about Bexley is that the council's management take you seriously. The council needs a range of skills to make it work well, and my work as a teacher means I can see things from a younger person's perspective.

I'm one of eight young people elected at the last election, and we could do with more. I think we provide a vital perspective missing from so many councils.

I have a boyfriend but he doesn't see too much of me - he's very understanding. I don't have a family to worry about, but with my work, council commitments, hobbies and non-professional theatre I don't get too much time on my own. But I do enjoy it all.

After my first piece of casework I got a thank you card from the person I'd assisted. I didn't feel that I'd done that much, but it obviously made a big difference to them. It made me feel warm inside the fact I was able to help.