Adam Dance (Credit: Olivia Grant)
4 minute read3 hours
As a child, school was one of my biggest challenges.
Diagnosed with severe dyslexia, I found the classroom daunting. The words seemed to float on the page and learning felt like a constant battle. ADHD brought additional challenges, making it difficult to focus on and fit into the traditional education system. Trying to concentrate was incredibly difficult. The smallest thing would distract me and pull my mind in a completely different direction.
But what she lacked in academic performance, she made up for in resilience. I refused to let these challenges define me. Instead, I put my energy into practice and started a successful landscaping business. Through this work and interacting with people from all walks of life, I discovered a passion for problem-solving and a desire to make a tangible difference in my community.
Politics can seem like a special club for people with polished resumes and a certain way of speaking
I took my first step into politics at the age of 16, when my local youth club faced closure. We could not stand by and watch such an important part of our community disappear. With the support of residents, I launched a successful campaign to save it. That experience taught me two important lessons. It’s about the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for what’s important.
Encouraged by this success, I decided to run for local councillor. Being a congressman has allowed me to work directly with people, listen to their concerns, and help solve problems. Over the years, I’ve earned a reputation for “getting things done.” I wear this expression like a badge of honor.
In 2022, I took on the role of Lead Member for Public Health at Somerset City Council. It has been an honor to help lead on issues that impact people’s daily lives, from mental health to access to health care. But it was the challenges I saw in my own constituency, such as the struggles of small businesses, the pressure on the NHS and the erosion of public services, that motivated me to step up to the next level.
Becoming a member of Congress was something I never thought I could achieve. Given my background and academic challenges, it often felt out of reach. Politics can seem like an exclusive club for people with polished resumes and a certain way of speaking. But I hope my story shows that politics needs people from all backgrounds, and that anyone can make a difference if they have the drive and determination.
Living with ADHD and dyslexia has taught me to approach problems differently. I’m creative, solution-oriented, and deeply empathetic. I believe these qualities will enable me to be a better representative of the people of Yeovil. Yes, this job comes with its challenges, but it is an honor to serve the constituency I care so much about.
As a Member of Parliament, I am committed to holding the New Labor Government to account and ensuring that the region receives long-overdue improvements. We have seen years of neglect under the Conservatives and I will not stand by and watch rural areas like mine be left behind. From tackling the cost of living crisis to ensuring better access to healthcare and transport, I will fight for every corner of Yeovil and South Somerset.
My message to those living with learning disabilities and conditions such as ADHD is simple. “Don’t let that stop you.” You are capable of more than you think. We know how lonely and frustrating it can be, but with the right support and belief in yourself, you can overcome those barriers.
As I embark on this new chapter at Westminster, I am proud to represent the place that has shaped me, supported me and taught me the value of resilience. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind.
Adam Dance, Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil
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