Ted Maxwell-Local Campaigner
Standing for our community, not a political party

I’m committed to a better future for my kids
It’s easy to feel pessimistic but I believe our community can do great things when we work together
The people of Tower Hamlets are the best, but the council isn’t working well for us
I want to change that
I stood as an independent candidate to be councillor for Bethnal Green West in the May 2026 local elections. I received 1,383 votes, which was not enough to win, but it’s a huge number for a first-time independent candidate – and as a result I feel like there’s a lot of local support for what I stand for. Bethnal Green is home for me and my family, so my plan is to keep working on the topics that I know people care about.
The future that 1,383 local people want me to help build
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Safer streets throughout the area
That means more infrastructure for people to walk, wheel and cycle, as well as drive; better management and safety in public spaces; and resisting the council’s attempted destruction of the Low Traffic Neighbourhood.
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One community
I’ll take every opportunity to listen. I want to hear about the views and concerns of residents across our community so we can find ways forward that work for all.
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Youth skills and training
I’ll work with charities and schools to improve youth knowledge and skills for the job market.
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Protect community spaces
I’ll fight to save Canal Club Community Centre and Poyser Street outdoor seating, and for Bethnal Green Nature Reserve to have a secure long-term future.
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Abul:
“Ted is the kind of person we really need on the council. He cares so much about this neighbourhood and the people here, and he knows how to make things happen.”
“When my family had a terrible catastrophe out of the blue, Ted and his family were there to support us. He’s really driven to make things better for others and he never gives up.”
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Abdul:
“I’m so excited Ted has decided to stand for the council. He’s a great human being with a warm, kind heart and he cares so much about the wellbeing and health of others. He’s brave, and he’s a devoted husband and father to four beautiful children.”
“Hidden disability is an issue close to my heart and Ted understands how hard it can be for vulnerable people to travel around safely. He has worked relentlessly to make our streets safer and quieter, and I know he could do so much more as a councillor.”
Latest news
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› Read more: A letter to my supportersA letter to my supporters
I stood for election because I wanted to make a difference for my local community, and that hasn’t changed. This…
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› Read more: A platform to build onA platform to build on
The count is finally complete – 1,383 local people voted for me. This is not enough to win against the…
- › Read more: My personal commitment to everyone in Bethnal Green West
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› Read more: Local politics failed us, but community power won outLocal politics failed us, but community power won out
Earlier this year my Bethnal Green grassroots community group, Save Our Safer Streets in Tower Hamlets, scored a stunning win…
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› Read more: What. A. Day!
What. A. Day!
I found out this morning that my campaign group Save Our Safer Streets won its court case to save our…
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› Read more: More school streets in Tower Hamlets now!More school streets in Tower Hamlets now!
On Wednesday 19 November, I presented my “Safer streets for Tower Hamlets school children” petition to a meeting at the…
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› Read more: “What can you really DO as an independent councillor?”
“What can you really DO as an independent councillor?”
A few months into my campaign, I’m encouraged that so many people like the sound of my pitch to be…
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› Read more: What I’ve learned from my neighboursWhat I’ve learned from my neighbours
Huge thanks to my friends and supporters who have joined me canvassing over the last seven weeks – together we’ve…
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› Read more: Less politics, more action
Less politics, more action
Petition launched today for safer school journeys for all Tower Hamlets children This week, Tower Hamlets dropped several places down…
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› Read more: Who on earth is Ted?Who on earth is Ted?
An independent voice for Bethnal Green West – launching the Ted4BGW campaign today I’m Ted. I’m a long-standing Bethnal Green…