Joel James MS

Key interests and achievements

Joel’s interests include: culture, history and heritage; planning and local government; strengthening the Union; and campaigning for people and communities that are often forgotten and left behind.

Personal history

Joel was born at East Glamorgan Hospital in Church Village and attended Bryn Celynnog Comprehensive School in Beddau. He studied History at the University of Bristol, and holds a Master’s degree in Welsh History from Cardiff University.

Professional background

Prior to his election, Joel worked as the Librarian for Cardiff Sixth Form College, one of the highest rated schools in the United Kingdom, and oversaw the development of their lectures programme. He is a member of the Charted Institute of Library and Information Professionals, and Llafur: The Welsh People’s History Society.

Political history

In 2008, Joel became the first Conservative councillor ever elected Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, representing his home ward of Llantwit Fardre. He has contested the Pontypridd Assembly/Senedd constituencies at the 2011, 2016 and 2021 Welsh Government elections, and serves as a community councillor on Llantwit Fardre Community Council. He has been involved in a myriad of political campaigns, and is extremely proud with his involvement in fighting against residential developments on floodplains; fighting for and securing fair freehold agreements for homeowners; and achieving large-scale levels of highway investment.