Becoming a local Councillor is an extremely rewarding experience. It gives you the opportunity to get involved in, and support, your local community whilst having a real say in its future. You will be joining a great team of local people who are driven by a desire to make a difference and deliver the best possible local services.
Councillors play an important leadership role in our communities. We need passionate, motivated, community-minded local Conservatives to come forward to represent their area. Perhaps you are already involved in a local community or voluntary organisation and want to take the next step or you have an interest in local politics that you want to pursue. If you are motivated by wanting to improve your community for the better and being a voice for your neighbours, then become a Councillor!
We welcome applications from people from all walks of life and ages, with lots of experience or none.
While you don’t need any necessary skills to become a Councillor, in order to be eligible to stand you must be:
- A British citizen or an eligible Commonwealth citizen and be resident in the UK.
- At least eighteen years old on the day you are nominated (April of the election year).
- Either on the electoral register for the council area in which you are seeking election
- Or have lived or worked in that council area for at least twelve months to the date of nomination (April of the election year) and the election.
Individuals who are not currently members of the Conservative Party will also need to join in order to stand as a Conservative candidate.
If you would like to know more about becoming a Councillor, the please see the Frequently Asked Questions below, or contact us.
Ready to throw your hat in the ring? TELL US.
Email [email protected]
FAQs:
What does a local Councillor do?
Local Councillors play an important role in bringing about positive change in their communities. You would be elected primarily to be an advocate for your area and a voice for the residents that live there. You would be expected to know your Ward so you can raise any issues of concern and help to resolve any problems that may arise. Responding to residents’ queries (casework) will form a large part of your role. Councillors also make connections with, and support, local organisations, interest groups and businesses. While the main responsibility of a Councillor is to represent their residents, Councillors will also help develop Council policy, scrutinise Council decisions and review policy proposals.
What skills do I need?
You do not need any special qualifications to be a Councillor. It is important that councils have Councillors with a broad range of skills and life experience. Having good communication and interpersonal skills, problem-solving and organisational skills and being able to work in a team and see things from someone else’s perspective are all helpful attributes, but the main credentials are an interest in your community and a willingness to learn. Knowledge, experience and confidence will soon follow.
You will receive support from the Association and your council colleagues. Once elected, Conservative colleagues and Council Officers will be there to help you.
Do I have the time?
How much time you spend on your duties as a Councillor depends on the particular commitments you take on. The time commitment can range from 5 to 20 hours per week. As with most things in life, what you get back will depend on how much you put in. But the majority of Councillors have full-time jobs, families, and hobbies outside of politics and are able to fit their Council work around their lives.
I have a disability – can I be a Councillor?
Yes, provided you fulfil the general criteria as outlined above. Disabled candidates are entitled to extra funds or support to help them campaign and once elected the Council will work with you to overcome any barriers you may encounter as a result of your disability and work to ensure you are fully involved.
I'm interested, what do I do now?
Email to let us know. We can then chat about available opportunities, timescales and the application process.