Jo is a LibDem activist and council candidate for Thames Ward, where she lives.

Full statement

Jo has a Master’s degree and PhD in electronic engineering and worked in telecoms before retraining in her 40s as a social worker. She has volunteered in the past with Reading CAB as a general advisor, and currently works as an advocate with older people and adults with learning disabilities.

She has lived in Caversham for over 20 years, and believes it is crucial for local voices to be heard when decisions are being made about our area and community.

Her priorities are to campaign on environmental issues, like preserving green spaces, planting more trees, and introducing better recycling facilities, as well as improving public transport and facilities for pedestrians in the area. She has campaigned for the council to place a new bottle bank in the ward and for bringing forwards the introduction of glass collection from the kerb. Like many others living here, she also worries about levels of traffic, air pollution and parking and is keen to challenge the council to move forwards on these issues.

She particularly wants to ensure that local services and transport are accessible to all and will use her skills and experience to speak up for residents in Thames Ward. She says, “Local residents know what will work for us and what won’t, and the best way for the council to use limited resources is to listen first.”