Get To Know Joe

Qualified social worker, English teacher, and a lifelong advocate for children and young people. 

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I’ve spent my career working across the creative industries, social care and education. I am a qualified social worker, English teacher, and a lifelong advocate for children and young people. As a social worker, I’ve practiced in child protection teams in South London, supporting vulnerable families and coordinating closely with councillors, MPs, and multi- agency partners. Through this work, I’ve gained a unique insight into how councils function and where they fall short. I know how to navigate systems to get results. Whether it’s pushing for housing repairs, working with social care providers or engaging with police and community safety partners, I understand how to hold services accountable and make sure they work for residents, not against them.

In 2024 I founded a social enterprise, ReWired. We merge the worlds of social care and the creative industries. Working with leading creatives in TV and film, advertising, music and live events, we provide young people at risk of exploitation or exclusion with access to training and work opportunities. I believe strongly that every young person has potential and that with the right support, they can thrive. Alongside my frontline work, I’ve contributed to national safeguarding and education policy, including submissions to the Education Select Committee. I hold two Master’s degrees, including one in Political Sociology from the LSE and I’m passionate about social policy that works on the ground. I also work as a freelance consultant and I have supported local authorities to improve their fostering and safeguarding offers.

My roots in the Labour movement run deep and I’ve been a Labour campaigner since I was old enough to walk - literally. I’ve supported campaigns across Lambeth, Hove, Hexham, and Darlington, and currently work closely with councillors and residents in my home ward of Vauxhall. I’ve sat on police-resident panels, supported with casework and worked to resolve tensions between businesses and residents. Relationships are at the heart of everything I do. I was raised in a small, close-knit community in the North East where people looked out for each other - where popping round for a brew or borrowing a cup of sugar was an everyday part of life. I see myself as a product of community; I live and lead with community values. When I walk down Abbeville Road with Alison, I feel that same spirit in our ward. It feels like home.
 

I know that candidacy is a privilege. I also know that trust must be earned. As a candidate living just outside the ward, I’m especially mindful of the need to listen, show up, and be visible. I promise to be present, to listen with care, and to always act in the interests of this community.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I look forward to meeting many of you in the weeks and months ahead.

Warm regards,
Joe Briel
Labour Candidate – Clapham Common & Abbeville Ward.