As a councillor you can become a voice for your community and affect real change. Councillors are community leaders and represent the aspirations of the public that they serve. Parish, town, community and neighbourhood councillors are the most local part of our democratic system and are closest to the public. By standing for your parish council you could make a real difference to your local neighbourhood.
You should consider becoming a parish or town councillor if:
- You Want To Do Something Positive for Your Community
- You Want To Spend Your Time Productively
- You Can Think, Listen and Act Locally
These document explains what you need to know about becoming a parish councillor.
whybecomeaparishortowncouncillor2023
Who can be a Councillor?
Initially, you may have little knowledge of Council work but this will come along with training, support and experience.
As a new Councillor you will bring to the Council fresh enthusiasm and new ideas, a care for your community and a willingness to learn.
A candidate for a Parish or Town Council is qualified if, when nominated –
1. he or she is a British subject or Irish citizen, or a member of the European Community or British Commonwealth where certain residency criteria are met
2. is 18 years of age, and
3. is either in the list of electors for that Parish or Town or has during the whole of the preceding twelve months:
a. occupied land as owner or tenant in it, or
b. had a principal place of work there, or
c. resided in or within three miles of it.
Disqualifications – you cannot stand for election if you:
- are the subject of a bankruptcy restriction order or interim order
- have, within 5 years before the day of the election, been convicted in the UK of any offence and have had a prison sentence (whether suspended or not) for a period of over 3 months without the option of a fine
- work for the council you want to become a councillor for
What next?
Speak to one of our current Cllrs or the Clerk to find out more.