Become a councillor

"When I became a councillor, I could suddenly see why things happen the way they do."

Being a councillor is a great job. You can:

• get involved and listen to the views of local people;
• influence change for the benefit of your community;
• learn something new every day; and,
• meet new people.

It isn't a 9am to 5pm job. You can do most of it at a time that suits you. It can fit around other commitments – from full-time work, to caring for young children – and allows you to make a valuable contribution to your community. But it does require commitment and hard work.

Although working with a political party increases your chance of becoming a councillor, you can choose to stand as an independent candidate.

All we ask of you is that you are:

• 18 or over;
• a British citizen, a citizen of the Irish Republic, the Commonwealth, or another member state of the European Union; and
• live, work, or own/occupy property within the district.

You can't be a councillor if you:

• work for our council, or work in a politically restricted post in another council.
• are bankrupt, or have been surcharged in excess of £2,000.
• have served a prison sentence (including suspended sentences) of three months or more in the last five years before the election.
• have been disqualified under any legislation relating to corrupt or illegal practices.

"You work as part of a team and get things done."

Job description

An ordinary person doing an amazing job

You will:

1. make sure that taxpayers money is spent wisely.
2. make sure people get the services they need.
3. check that people are receiving quality services that are value for money.
4. make sure that everyone gets treated fairly.
5. support local businesses.
6. look after the local environment and help to protect it from climate change.
7. find places to build homes and help people to find housing they can afford.
8. encourage people to have healthy lifestyles.
9. promote the area and what it has to offer.
10. help vulnerable people to get back on their feet and live independently.

You should:

• be a good listener;
• be good at problem solving;
• be good at working in a team;
• be able and willing to use email, the internet and Microsoft office;
• have good organisational skills; and
• be able to get your local community involved and keep them informed.

You might also have skills and knowledge gained from professional experience or working with other groups. Don't worry if you don't yet have some of the skills listed. We provide you with the support, information and training you need.

You will get:

• the opportunity to make a difference in your community;
• the chance to specialise in particular areas;
• to meet and work with people from across the district;
• the flexibility to work hours that suit you;
• excellent training that will further develop your skills; and,
• a basic allowance, currently £3,900, plus expenses.

For more information, please contact Member Services or look at our 'Become a Councillor - FAQs' in related pages.