Become a councillor
Being a local councillor is an interesting and rewarding role. Your local parish or town council is the first tier of local democracy and provides the local electorate an involvement in things that matter at their local level.
As a councillor you are an important member of the team that represents the council. By your involvement you can help improve the services and conditions and make a difference in your local community.
The skills, knowledge and experience you bring will enhance those of other councillors on the council. You will also have the opportunity to learn new skills and gain broader experience and knowledge.
How do I become a councillor?
New councillors are elected every four years through local elections or they may be co-opted should insufficient nominations be received.
To be eligible you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be a British citizen or an eligible Commonwealth citizen
- Meet at least one of the following qualifications:
- You must appear on the local electoral register for the parish/town at the time of nomination should you be elected
- Have occupied any land or other premises in the parish/town as an owner or tenant during 12 months before the day of nomination and day of election
- Your main or only place of work during the previous 12 months prior to the day of nomination and the day of election has been within the parish/town area. You do not have to have paid employment to qualify as long as your major or only place of work is in the parish/town area.
- You have lived in the parish/town or within three miles of it during the 12 months before the day of nomination and day of election.
Make a difference, become a councillor.
More information on Becoming a Councillor can be found on the NALC website at www.nalc.gov.uk or by contacting your local council via its website, social media and notice boards.