In the inner London borough of Islington we are working to create a more equal economy where everyone, whatever their background, has the opportunity and support to reach their potential. Equality and sustainability inform everything we do. We are already encouraging businesses to recruit locally, and have now helped more than 4,000 residents into decent local jobs since April 2019, nine months ahead of target. But our work continues.

For small businesses, the challenges are different – and every day, thousands are working hard locally to launch, build and sustain healthy businesses, creating jobs and contributing to vibrant, thriving communities. This is harder for some than others, and it is my mission to help everyone achieve their potential by addressing unfair disparities across class, race, disability and gender.