Evelyn Tweed’s Column in the Stirling Observer: Published 26th February 2025
Since announcing my decision not to seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026, I have been deeply moved by the many kind messages from constituents, colleagues, and political opponents. It has been yet another reminder that people are the best part of being an MSP. Representing this community has been the greatest honour of my career, and I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to reach out.
Holding elected office is a privilege – one I have never taken for granted. It is a chance to make a difference, to stand up for those who need a voice, and to fight for the values we hold dear. I was never a career politician and entered politics to make people’s lives better.
I will leave knowing I have done my best, and I hope that whoever follows me will be able to say the same. But while 2026 will mark the end of this chapter for me, my work is far from over.
When I was elected, I made two promises: to serve all constituents and to work cross-party for the benefit of this constituency. I believe I have kept those promises, and I am grateful to my political opponents who have shared that commitment. In politics, we may differ in ideology, but we should not be enemies.
Since my election in 2021, my team and I have resolved over 5,400 cases, assisting constituents with a wide range of issues. The UK cost-of-living crisis continues to hit people in Scotland hard, forcing families and vulnerable individuals into impossible choices.
Having grown up in poverty myself, I understand the toll financial hardship takes. That’s why I will continue working to ensure every eligible household receives the benefits they are entitled to. These payments exist to provide security and dignity – no one should hesitate to claim what is rightfully theirs, and there should be no shame in this. Benefits such as the Scottish Child Payment, Universal Credit, and Pension Credit make a significant difference to people’s lives. If you are unsure of your entitlement, please contact my office so we can help.
This year, I will convene another roundtable meeting with key local organisations such as Social Security Scotland, Citizens Advice, Start-Up Stirling, Stirling Voluntary Enterprise, and St Mark’s Raploch, among others, to explore new ways of working together to improve the lives of those living in poverty.
I will also never lose sight of what makes this constituency so special. It is remarkable in its diversity, from vibrant urban centres to stunning rural landscapes. Trossachs & Teith, where I was a Councillor, is one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. But it is the community spirit that truly stands out.
During the pandemic, I witnessed extraordinary acts of kindness and determination as people rallied to help one another. Similarly, the responses to Storms Arwen and Eowyn – and before that, the Beast from the East – demonstrated our community’s resilience, compassion, and unwavering spirit.
Stirling is also a hub of creativity, with a cultural sector that is vital to our identity, economy, and wellbeing. Theatres, music venues, galleries, and grassroots projects need support to thrive, not just survive. Stirling is also home to innovative small businesses and established enterprises, providing jobs, driving growth, and contributing to Scotland’s prosperity. Its ideal location in the heart of Scotland makes it a strategic hub for trade, tourism, and connectivity. And let’s not forget the University of Stirling, a world-class institution that enriches our community through education, research, and innovation and Forth Valley College offering courses from access to degree level. I have been honoured to meet representatives of so many of these organisations and businesses.
I will always believe Scotland is best served by independence and a left-of-centre government. At the same time, I respect that not everyone shares this view, and I have always strived for respectful debate. Politics, at its best, is about finding common ground while standing firm on principle. I am, however, concerned by the direction politics is taking. We need to challenge the voices of intolerance. The principles of fairness, equality, and social justice should never be compromised.
Finally, I want to thank the Stirling Observer for publishing these unfiltered political comment columns, which contribute to our democracy. And thank you for reading them. Rest assured, you will be reading a few more from me, and I will give this role everything I have until my final day in office!
