James Batho

James Batho is the Liberal Democrat candidate for Southampton Itchen. A current local councillor for Winchester City Council (WCC) he also sits on the Board of Venta Living Limited (a WCC Housing Company). James is a passionate and hardworking campaigner and has the experience that will drive the change we need.

Too many MPs are career politicians with no understanding of the real world. James has a range of life knowledge, working with large technology companies, starting a self-employed business, retraining as a teacher gaining his degree at the University of Southampton and currently a bus driver.

James has also volunteered with Scout and Duke of Edinburgh groups, regularly taking teams of young people on expeditions to the New Forest. As a youth worker and teacher, he saw the effects of inequality on young people and wants to be in position to make a difference in the lives of the families affected.

For James, a fair deal for children and young people is a priority. Giving every child the best start in life by increasing school and college funding per pupil above the rate of inflation every year, improving the provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and extending pre-school funding to enable all parents to take on regular employment.

“A society shows the vision of the future it wants through the opportunities it gives to children and young people.” James Batho