Lynn Collins has been North West regional secretary of the Trades Union Congress since 2013 and will chair Steve Rotheram’s Fairness and Social Justice Advisory Board. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram has appointed new ‘Fairness Tsar’ to tackle poverty and social justice and “leaves no one behind”.

And Lynn Collins, who has been North West regional secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) since 2013, will be a “critical friend” of Mr Rotheram’s administration.

Prior to her appointment at the, Ms Collins TUC worked as a senior trades unionist, playing an active role promoting equality and tackling disadvantage and poverty.

She will chair the Metro Mayor’s Fairness and Social Justice Advisory Board.

“The new Combined Authority and the election of Steve Rotheram as our Metro Mayor means there is a real chance to improve livelihoods,” she said.

“Fairness and social justice needs to extend across our entire region in workplaces and throughout our communities. It should mean great jobs and education for all. And an economic strategy that leaves no-one behind.”

The Metro Mayor’s election manifesto pledged to establish an advisory board to give a voice to social groups who may face discrimination or disadvantage.

He added: “Bringing in someone with Lynn’s credibility and track record of fighting poverty and its causes demonstrates my determination to deliver on this pledge.

“I am delighted that Lynn has agreed to take on this role to be our ‘critical friend’, as we get to work on increasing prosperity in a way that must benefit all across the city region.”