10/06/2026
Introducing your new Mayor of Southwark: Councillor Claire Sheppard.
Cllr Sheppard will already be a familiar face to many, having lived in Nunhead for over 25 years. She is a mum, small business owner, Green Party councillor and community activist. She is well-known locally for founding and running Nunhead Knocks, a group that supported residents across SE15 through the pandemic and beyond into the cost-of-living crisis.
Cllr Sheppard has chosen Westminster House Youth Club (WHYC) and Little Village as her charities for the year. She will also be an advocate for Elect Her, a non-partisan organisation that helps women to find their path in politics.
Cllr Sheppard said: “I’m incredibly proud to have been selected to be Mayor of Southwark and hope to use my time in the role to shine a light on all the amazing volunteers, community groups and organisations that keep Southwark alive and thriving.
“I am a people person, so I look forward to meeting groups across the borough and learning more about how they support their neighbours and peers and thanking them for their hard work.
“I am also thrilled that I get to welcome new citizens to the borough and the country every week for the next year. What a privilege to open our arms to our new neighbours.
“Of course, I am also looking forward to raising the profile of and funds for my chosen charities WHYC and Little Village baby bank. My husband Steve is planning to be one of my Mayoral runners in the London Marathon next year, so I’ll be cheering them on with all my heart!
“I firmly believe Nunhead is the best place in the world to live. We have the best food, the best tunes and the absolute best community.”
