Taylor Edward George Smith

“I am pleased to formally announce my candidacy for County Councillor in the South Oxhey and Eastbury Division in the upcoming election on 1st May 2025. I am proud to be standing for Reform UK.”

“As a fourth-generation resident of the area, born on 4th February 2002, I have deep roots in South Oxhey and Eastbury. My mixed-race heritage—my father being from Nairobi, Kenya, and my upbringing within my mum’s white British family—has given me a broad perspective on our community. However, my politics are shaped by my values, not my background. Like Reform UK, I support net-zero immigration, and I believe it’s crucial to have open, honest discussions on this issue without fear of being silenced. Given today’s political climate, my background allows me to push for policies that many other candidates may shy away from, not because they lack conviction, but because they risk being unfairly labelled.”

“My motivation to serve stems from my family’s long tradition of public service. My great-grandad was a firefighter, my nan a nurse who retrained as a teaching assistant for children with special needs, my grandad a Chief Superintendent in the Met Police, and my mum currently works with adults with learning difficulties. I understand the struggles that ordinary families face because I’ve lived them—I wasn’t handed everything on a plate.”

“In my professional life, I studied business at college while training as a lifeguard and swimming teacher, before going on to study law at Hertfordshire University in 2020. In 2021, I was diagnosed with chronic idiopathic pancreatitis, which forced me to leave university and prioritise my health. Despite this setback, I rebuilt my career, progressing to become a lead swimming teacher and later an Area Swim School Lead, managing multi-million-pound leisure facilities and working closely with schools and councils. At 23, I bring fresh energy, a business mindset, and real-world experience—not the recycled promises of career politicians.”

“I am running for County Council because I am deeply concerned about the direction of our country and our local community. We’ve been let down for too long, and I refuse to stand by while South Oxhey and Eastbury are ignored. My key priorities include:”

“ • Better Funding for Schools – Ensuring proper investment in education, especially for SEND students, and introducing more life skills programs.”

“ • A New Secondary School for South Oxhey – A fight worth having. If the council can spend £218 million on developments that harm local businesses, they can invest in the infrastructure we actually need.”

“ • Adult Education & Retraining – Working with West Herts College to create more opportunities for local people to upskill and build new careers.”

“ • Support for Local Businesses – Establishing a business hub in an unused space, providing funding and mentorship for startups and existing businesses.”

“ • Tackling Crime & Antisocial Behaviour – More police patrols, better street lighting, and stronger action on burglary and fly-tipping. More importantly, preventing crime by giving young people real opportunities.”