Gavin Callaghan has been an active member of Basildon’s political scene for over a decade. He is known for his dedication to public service and dynamic leadership. He first entered local politics in 2012, winning a seat on the council by unseating a Conservative opponent, and has played a crucial role in the council ever since. Callaghan became the youngest leader of Basildon Council in 2017 and has been instrumental in guiding the council through various significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early Career and Advocacy:

Between 2011 and 2015, Gavin worked for two Labour MPs, Steve Rotheram and Dan Jarvis. During this time, he played a key role in the campaign for the full disclosure of government documents related to the 1989 Hillsborough disaster. His efforts contributed to the release of these papers, which confirmed police corruption and led to a verdict of unlawful killing.

In addition to his work on Hillsborough, Gavin supported various other campaigns while working for the MPs. He advocated for trade unionists blacklisted by companies, pushed for the installation of defibrillators in schools and public buildings, secured compensation for mesothelioma sufferers, and fought to improve transport safety for school children.

Focus on Disability Rights:

After his tenure with the MPs, Gavin turned his attention to disability rights, spending three years working for Scope and the Papworth Trust as Head of Public Affairs and Policy. He led the largest survey into disabled people’s views on the EU referendum and successfully campaigned for increased investment in community care and the elimination of certain assessment criteria for chronically disabled people.

Business Ventures and Council Leadership:

Gavin transitioned to the private sector by founding a business that helps local authorities use digital technology to improve public services. His company supports councils in enhancing housing stock, adult social care services, and mental health community solutions.
Having lived in Basildon for over twenty years, Gavin was elected as Leader of Basildon Council in 2017. As council leader, he secured over £1.5 billion in private sector investment for the town and invested heavily in violence prevention programs against women and girls. Under his leadership, the council also saw record levels of Labour votes in the borough since 2002.

Personal Life and Education:

Gavin attended a Catholic state school in Essex and was the first man in his family to attend university, graduating with a degree in Politics from Newcastle University in 2007. He has been a dedicated member of the Labour Party and a trade unionist for 17 years, holding memberships in GMB, Unison, and Community.
Gavin lives in Basildon with his wife, Emma, whom he married on New Year’s Eve in 2021 after COVID postponements, their daughter and Ollie, the Airedale Terrier. He remains committed to improving Basildon and believes in working together to make the town a better place for all its residents.