Cally Councillor, Sara Hyde, makes her first speech as a member of the House of Lords

Cally Councillor Sara Hyde made her first (“maiden”) speech in the House of Lords yesterday, Thursday 29th January. Sara gave one of the most memorable first speeches heard in Britain’s second legislative chamber. Sara recounted the influences and inspirations in her background, most of all the people of the Cally and Bemerton estate where she lived for many years.

She pledged to “always give my very best as I act justly, love mercy and walk humbly” as a member of the House of Lords.

In her speech, Sara recounted her 20+ years living and working around Caledonian Road and how she chose the title “Baroness Hyde of Bemerton” so that “I would never, ever forget where I came from nor lose sight of whom I am here to serve and to ensure a functioning democracy for.”

She recounted arriving in the Cally community through youth work, homeless night shelters and community organising. She was welcomed and adopted into the congregation of All Saints Church in Cally and she spoke in particular of “Kim, May, Feulah, Auntie Grace and Pat (who) took me in and treated me as one of their own.” She recounted how she saw in the Cally community that “even in the hardest circumstances, people still build connection, still love, still contribute.” She met and lived with people whose lives were “marked by poverty, addiction and struggle, (and they) changed me for ever through their grace, generosity and hospitality.”

Paul Convery adds: “Sara’s speech was truly moving. She spoke with passion about how living in Cally shaped her life, outlook and politics. She made one of the most thoughtful speeches I have heard in Parliament and it affirmed in my mind the skills and talent she brings. I’ve had the privilege over the past 8 years of serving alongside Sara on the Council representing the Cally and I’ve seen the many moments of empathy and understanding that characterise her. That personality is now serving the whole country.

“I also think this was the first time ever that a member of the House of Lords has name-checked the Cally! And Sara almost certainly gave the first ever House of Lords name-checks to musicians Rebecca Lucy Taylor (aka Self Esteem) and Nick Cave. That’s truly what she’s like! I am certain that Sara is going to make such a big contribution to Britain’s public life over the coming years.“

A video recording of Sara’s speech can be seen by clicking here. The Hansard transcript of Sara’s speech is published here.