Why become a councillor?
Being a councillor is an extremely rewarding experience, it gives you the opportunity to help your local community and be part of a dedicated team providing key services for your area.
It's a great way to gain political experience and useful skills in public speaking, conflict resolution and problem solving.
Am I eligible to stand?
To be eligible to stand for Council you must be:
- At least eighteen years old on the day you are nominated.
- A British citizen, an eligible Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, a qualifying EU citizen or an EU citizen with retained rights.
And either:
- On the electoral register for the council area in which you are seeking election.
- Have lived or worked in that council area for at least the last twelve months.
View full criteria for England and Wales from the Electoral Commission here. Please note that you cannot work for the council and stand for election to the same council.
What do I need to know?
On day one, you won't be expected to take direct responsibility for the running of the council. The main qualifications required are an interest in your community and a willingness to learn. The knowledge, experience and confidence will soon follow.
You will receive support from us, council colleagues, the Conservative Party, and the Conservative Councillors Association.
Most local authorities provide induction training and IT support, Council officers are there to help you, and are professionally trained staff employed to carry out the lawful functions and duties of a council. Many council groups also employ political assistants or researcher who can assist in your duties.
Do I have the time?
It’s possible to dedicate all of your time on just council work but the vast majority of our councillors also work full time, and have families and hobbies.
Unless you take on further responsibilities as a Cabinet Member or Chairing committees, your work directly within the Town Hall may not involve more than a few meetings a month (depending on the amount of committees and panels you sit on).
Most of your time as a Councillor will be field based and dedicated to supporting residents and maintaining your local presence, through house visits, surgeries and community events.
The Conservative Group will also hold private meetings, we have campaign support expectations and you may have further community group meetings within your ward or division you'll be required to attend.
Can I afford to?
Councils pay a basic allowance that varies depending on the type and size of the council.
They may also pay some additional telephone and computer costs and provide you with other necessary stationery.
All councillors receive a basic allowance but some may receive additional Special Responsibility Allowance for taking on other specific roles such as cabinet members or committee chairs.
Becoming a Conservative Party Council Candidate
We're always looking for new candidates. New candidates can bring fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm, which can be beneficial for your area.
All Conservative candidates are required to be member’s of the Conservative Party. We will manage and arrange the short-listing and selection processes for council candidates in your area.
How do I sign up?
If you're not already a member you'll need to join and have been a Conservative Party member for at least 3 months before you can stand.
Download and complete a Council Candidate Application Form below, and email us at [email protected]
More information on becoming a Councillor can also be found on the guide below.