A nurse and psychological therapist who successfully campaigned for dyslexia reform has announced she will stand in Ayre and Michael at the 2026 General Election.
Julia Bell, who founded the Dyslexia Advocacy Group IOM, confirmed her candidacy with a pledge to bring “evidenced-based decision making” to Tynwald.
Her campaign follows two Petitions of Redress which led to the establishment of a Tynwald Select Committee and a published report containing 12 formal recommendations.
Ms Bell’s work resulted in systematic phonics instruction being introduced across Key Stage 1, a new Inclusion Policy in October 2024, and access to assistive technology for 11,000 students.
She said: “I am a mother, a nurse and a psychological therapist and a proven advocate for dyslexia.”
Ms Bell was encouraged to stand for the Legislative Council in 2024 and, though unsuccessful, said Members of the House of Keys urged her to contest the 2026 General Election, noting her strengths lay in representation, policy and delivering change.
She added: “I cannot promise to deliver every idea I support. Meaningful change requires a majority support within Tynwald. What I can promise is evidenced-based decision making, listening to my constituents and persevering to achieve change.”
Mary Phillips and Paul Weatherall have previously declared their intention to stand in the election.
Sitting MHKs Alf Cannan and Tim Johnston have not announced their intentions.