Jara ('Yara') is a Clinical Psychologist and clinical lead in a Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service.

Full statement

She has worked for the NHS for over 10 years, following some years in the charitable sector. After growing up in different countries, she has called England her home for 20 years and is a proud Islingtonian - renting here for many years. Being of mixed Euro-Asian heritage, she brings lived experience of diverse communities and strong inclusive, left-wing, environmental values.

Jara said: “I’m standing to be a Green councillor for Clerkenwell to fight for everyone’s right to a healthy, fulfilling, and meaningful life. Nobody should struggle to access the right support or education or struggle to make ends meet; and I believe access to green spaces and clean air should be a human right. As psychologist, I’ve seen the impact people’s communities and environment have on their wellbeing. I want to put my skills and experience at the service of Clerkenwell residents – to improve living conditions, protect public services, tackle inequality, and make our communities greener, safer, and more connected.”

Jara has experience of organising projects, leading large teams, and supervising colleagues in high-pressured environments to improve existing services and develop new ones. Jara is practiced at collaborating with people with different ages, needs, priorities, and backgrounds, and across competing services. She works hard to empower those voices often less heard, including those from global majority, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and disabled groups.

Jara is passionate about working with local residents and organisations to protect Clerkenwell’s sense of community and heritage, while building a fairer, greener Islington where none are left behind.