Sunderland council elections 2026 party statement (Independents)

Sunderland City Council normally holds its elections by ‘thirds’ for its 75 councillors, with one council seat in each of the city’s 25 wards up for grabs each election cycle.

However, a landmark round of local elections is taking place this year following changes to ward boundaries by the Local Government Boundary Commission, with 75 councillors due to be elected to new wards.

Electors can vote for no more than three candidates in their ward and anyone wanting to vote must be on the electoral register.

More than 360 candidates from five established political parties are throwing their hats into the ring, as well as three independent candidates.

All political parties and independent candidates have been given the opportunity to tell readers why you should vote for them.

Here’s what Sunderland’s independent candidates have to say.

Rosalind Copeland – Independent candidate for Southwick 

I’m standing because I could see things weren’t getting done including rubbish and drug dealing in the back lanes, shoplifting and more.

If elected, I can highlight issues rather than being a nosy neighbour and a resident.

When I was a Southwick councillor for eight years, people could contact me anytime and I answered them and followed through, that’s what I want to get back to.

I have lived in this community for 51 years and have fought in the past to get where we are. I don’t want to see that going backwards.

I’m proud of Southwick Green as a ‘gateway to the south’ and seeing new housing and new people coming into Southwick and it’s about being proud of our shipbuilding and glassmaking heritage.

It’s about building up the community spirit that has been lost, bringing the community back together, listening to the community and being their voice.

Paul Humble – Independent candidate for Redhouse 

I’m, first and foremost, a family man with four children. I was born and raised in Redhouse. 

I have chosen to stand as a candidate in the upcoming election as I care deeply about our area and the people who live here and, like many others, I feel ignored or unheard.

If elected, I will never silence residents for raising concerns. Instead, I will work hard to find answers, listen to your views, and represent the people of Redhouse ward fairly.

I am not promising to make a difference. I’m making a difference!

I have been volunteering and helping bring positive change to Redhouse, including transforming the Redhouse Workmen’s Club into a boxing club.

No matter which party members are elected, I will always challenge decisions that are not in the best interests of local residents.

No party politics. Just a hardworking local man who wants the very best for our community.

Karen Noble – Independent candidate for Pallion & Ford ward

I’m proud to announce that I’m standing as an independent councillor, committed to serving the community where I both live and work.

Being part of this community, every day gives me a clear understanding of the challenges residents face, as well as the opportunities we can build on together.

I bring a strong, independent voice that will speak up for local people and ensure their views are properly represented.

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I believe residents should play a central role in shaping decisions that affect their lives, and I am determined to help strengthen that influence.

Transparency and accountability must be at the heart of local decision-making. I will work to ensure that processes are open, fair, and accessible to all.

Above all, I want everyone in our city to have equal access to the services and support they need, so that every resident can live a better, more secure life.