Biography

Alessandra Williams, a single mum from Epsom Downs, overcame being made redundant over a decade ago to become a successful barrister and believes her life experiences of growing up on a council estate make her capable of dealing with issues of poverty and inequality.

Alessandra has extensive experience in criminal law, public law, financial litigation, commercial, corporate and private client representation which she has gained in various avenues including Government panels and voluntary work.

Main Issues

Global Climate Change

We have a social responsibility to preserve our planet for ourselves and our future generations.  I believe that more needs to be done by local and central government to accelerate recycling, and increasing encouraging renewable energy sources in the home.  I also believe that investment needs to be increased in alternative fuels.

Immigration

We have a social responsibility to increase fair trade and cancel world debt so that impoverished countries have a way out of their current economic situation and their citizens will not be forced to migrate.

Health

I believe that we need to increase access to health care and medication to improve the quality of life by ensuring that essentials such as hospital cleanliness is increased and by reversing the current trends of closing A&E units in the local area.  I also believe that the “Matron” role should be renewed as this localised ward management proved to be effective in the cleanliness of the ward and overall patient care.

Taxes

I believe that the first £10,000 of an individual’s earning should be tax free and that there should more levels of taxation to provide a more proportionate and fairer tax system. 

Local Issues

Poverty - Hackney is the second poorest local authority in England and the most deprived borough in London.  My aim is to work with organisations with a proven track record of success and change, as well as the local council to raise Hackney’s socio economic status above what it is at present.

Local Government - Lobby local government for an increased budget to improve security on the streets – by introducing volunteer community officers recruited from the local community.

Maintain the unique character of the area – Put Hackney positively on the map through an "I’m Hackney and I’m proud" campaign.

Increase social and community cohesion – Hackney is an Olympic borough, ensure that visitors from all over the world want to have the “Hackney Experience”. Engage the local community in this initiative.

Tackle the gang culture and give youths a sense of “self worth” – through specifically designed projects with proven track records and by partnering with organisations that build self esteem, self determination and a sense of identity.