On 10 October 2024, residents in the Hanger ward will take part in a by-election to vote for a new ward councillor.
EALING.NEWS has asked all candidates standing 7 questions about who they are, what they hope to deliver and why they want residents to vote for them.
Wagdi Thabit standing for the Workers Party in Hanger Hill answers the 7 questions:
Tell us a bit about yourself, your priorities for the ward and why you want to be councillor for Hanger Hill?
My name is Wagdi Thabit, and I’ve spent years working as a local community activist. During this time, I’ve supported elderly residents and individuals with mental health challenges, helping them access essential services and improve their quality of life. I’ve always believed in working directly with the community to make a difference, and this is what motivates me to run for councillor in Hanger Hill.
My priorities for the ward focus on addressing key local issues. Protecting our green spaces is a top concern, as the Labour-run council’s policies pose a real threat to Hanger Hill’s parks and open areas. Over development must be challenged, and I will work to ensure that any new projects are sustainable and beneficial for the local community. Another priority is improving the safety and security of the ward, particularly by tackling anti-social behaviour and addressing poorly managed HMOs, which often contribute to instability in the area. I also want to ensure that road safety and traffic management are improved, as current roadworks and congestion are impacting residents’ quality of life.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by a desire to serve the community and ensure that vulnerable residents are supported. Throughout my work as a community activist, I’ve seen the challenges many people face, particularly the elderly and those with mental health needs. I want to continue advocating for these individuals and ensure that their voices are heard. The Workers Party’s commitment to putting the needs of the people first is what drives me forward, and I believe that by working together, we can create a Hanger Hill that is safe, supportive, and sustainable.
What is your own personal connection to either Hanger Hill or any other part of the borough?
My connection to Hanger Hill stems from my years of working as a community activist in the area. I’ve worked closely with local residents, helping them navigate the challenges of daily life and advocating for better services. This has given me a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to people here, from housing concerns to mental health support, and I’m committed to making sure these issues are addressed.
What do you consider to be your 3 top political, work or personal achievements and what impact have they had?
One of my most significant achievements has been my work supporting elderly residents in Hanger Hill, ensuring they have access to the services they need and reducing their isolation. Another key achievement is my work in mental health advocacy, where I’ve helped connect individuals with vital resources and raised awareness of the challenges they face. Lastly, my role in organising community events and bringing residents together has fostered a stronger sense of unity in Hanger Hill, which is something I’m particularly proud of.
What do you consider to be the top 3 challenges Hanger Hill faces and how will you as a councillor address them?
The top three challenges in Hanger Hill are the threat to green spaces, road safety issues, and rising anti-social behaviour. The Labour-run council’s policies put our green spaces at risk, and I will fight to protect these areas from over development.
Road safety and traffic management are also serious concerns, with poorly managed roadworks causing unnecessary disruption. I will work with the council to ensure roadworks are better planned and executed. Finally, anti-social behaviour, particularly linked to HMOs, is a growing issue in the ward. I will push for increased neighbourhood policing and stricter regulations on HMOs to address these problems.
What do you love about Hanger Hill and the borough of Ealing?
What I love most about Hanger Hill is the strong sense of community. People here genuinely care for one another, and there is a real willingness to support neighbours and those in need. The borough of Ealing as a whole has so much to offer, from its beautiful green spaces to its cultural diversity. It’s important that we preserve these aspects of the borough and ensure that all residents can benefit from them.
How accessible will you be to Hanger Hill residents and how can they get in contact with you now and if elected how will you ensure you are accessible to them in the future?
I am committed to being fully accessible to Hanger Hill residents both now and if elected. You can reach me through email or phone, and I am always available for in-person meetings to discuss any concerns. If elected, I will hold regular surgeries and community meetings where residents can speak with me directly. I will also use social media to keep residents informed about my work and ensure they always have a way to contact me with their concerns.
