London: Sojan Joseph, a mental health nurse with the National Health Service (NHS) who migrated from Kerala 22 years ago, is among the newly elected Labour members of Parliament following the recent UK general election.

Joseph, aged 49, won over voters with his commitment to improving mental health services in his constituency, successfully challenging the Conservative stronghold of Ashford in Kent, south-eastern England.

In the general election held on July 4, Joseph defeated Tory stalwart and former minister Damian Green, delivering a significant setback to the anti-immigration rhetoric of right-wing candidates. The far-right Reform UK party finished third in the constituency.

“I am humbled with the trust you all placed in me and fully aware of the responsibilities that come with it. I will work hard for everyone in Ashford, Hawkinge and villages,” said Joseph in his acceptance speech on Friday.

Joseph’s experience as a local councillor and a BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) Officer has prepared him for this new parliamentary role. However, he attributes his empathetic approach to his more than two decades of service as a mental health nurse with the NHS.

His strong ties with the local communities of Ashford, where he has lived with his wife and three children for over 15 years, further inspire him.

“I take great pride in calling Ashford, and Willesborough, my home. I have taken part in a number of fundraising activities over the years, including running marathons for various charities and a dragon boat race for the local hospital charity,” said Joseph, who has undertaken several international marathons for charity.

“I firmly believe in an inclusive society that works towards achieving the full potential for every individual in the community,” he adds.

Originally from Kaipuzha, a small village in Kottayam district, Joseph completed his schooling in Kottayam and pursued nursing studies in Bengaluru. In the UK, he obtained a Master's degree in healthcare leadership, focusing on diversity and inclusion in public healthcare.

Many voters on the campaign trail described him as extremely passionate about improving access to mental and physical healthcare services for everyone.

As he takes his seat in the House of Commons, Joseph will join several other first-time Labour MPs of Indian heritage, reflecting the nationwide swing towards the party following the landslide victory led by Keir Starmer. PTI