Newsletter from Dorset Councillor Will Chakawhata

Published: 29 January 2025

New Chapter for Holt: Listening, Acting, Delivering By Will Chakawhata 

Writing my first piece for the residents of Holt is a privilege. My name is Will Chakawhata, and I am proud to serve as your councillor for Stour and Allen Vale, a role I took on in May 2023, following the exceptional service of Cllr Robin Cook. Since moving from Zimbabwe over 30 years ago, Dorset has been my home for 25 years, and for the past decade, I have lived in Wimborne with my partner and two sons, Elijah and Jacob, who attend local schools. Like many of you, I juggle work and family life demands, sharing the same hopes and challenges as any other parent in our community.

With a career over 25 years in the NHS, my focus has been on mental health, governance, and leadership. I have also served as a magistrate for 12 years and worked as an independent chair with the former Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner for three years, improving performance. These roles have taught me the value of listening, problem-solving, and bringing people together to achieve meaningful results. Public service isn’t just a job for me—it’s a purpose.

My priorities in Holt are clear: well-being, road safety, and sustainability. The pandemic brought mental health, especially of young and vulnerable people, into sharp focus, and I am committed to ensuring our community has the support it needs to thrive. Even simple things like walking and listening to music are vital ways to recharge, and I encourage everyone to prioritise their well-being.

Road safety is one of the most urgent challenges we face. Holt Lane has been a key area of concern. I have been impressed by the proactive work of local councillors and residents in tackling this issue head-on. Together with Dorset Council, we are committed to implementing practical measures to make our roads safer for everyone.

Sustainability is another area where we all have a role to play. I have made changes like moving to an electric vehicle and using public transport whenever possible. These actions might seem small, but collectively, they matter. While not everyone can make the same choices, we can all contribute in ways that help protect our planet for future generations.

But above all, my focus is on you—the people of Holt. I want to connect with you, hear your concerns, learn from your experiences, and work with you to find solutions that make a difference. I aim to foster a community where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to shape our future. I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the months ahead. Let us have those conversations, share ideas, and work together to build a stronger and prosperous Holt.

Please feel free to contact me at CllrWill.Chakawhata@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.