Become a councillor
Have you thought about standing for election to Shropshire Council?
Do you want to help get things done in your neighbourhood? Are you already active in your community? As a councillor, you can make a difference.
Why become a councillor?
Being a councillor is a rewarding form of public service that puts you in a unique position where you can make decisions about local issues and improve the quality of life for people within Shropshire. It gives you the opportunity to help your local community and be part of a dedicated team providing key services for your area.
What does a councillor do?
The councillor's role takes in:
- representing the division
- decision-making
- policy and strategy review and development
- overview and scrutiny
- regulatory duties
- community leadership and engagement.
Being an effective councillor requires hard work. The primary role of a councillor is to represent their division and the people who live in it. Community leadership is at the heart of modern local government and councils are taking on new responsibilities for working in partnership with other organisations, including the voluntary and community sector, to improve services and the quality of life for citizens. Being a councillor is also a great way to gain political experience and useful skills in public speaking, debating and problem solving.
Councillors are expected to take steps to keep in touch with their communities. It is assumed that they will, at least on an annual basis, attend parish/town council meetings and meetings of local community groups. Councillors are also chosen to represent Shropshire Council on outside bodies (both local and national), which include a wide range of trusts, associations and committees.
Who can become a councillor?
You can become a councillor if:
- you are over 18 on both polling day and the day of nomination;
- you are a British citizen, a citizen of the Irish Republic, the Commonwealth or another member state of the European Union;
- you are on the Register of Electors and your home is in Shropshire (and has been for at least the past 12 months), or you work in Shropshire (and have for at least the past 12 months), or you own a property in Shropshire (and have for at least the past 12 months).
You could be disqualified as a candidate if:
- you are an undischarged bankrupt;
- you have a criminal conviction which carried a prison sentence of 3 months or more in the previous 5 years;
- you work for Shropshire Council, or hold a politically restricted post with another authority.
How much do I need to know?
The main qualifications are an interest in your community and a willingness to learn. Knowledge, experience and confidence will soon follow. You will be offered a comprehensive induction to your role as a councillor and ongoing support and guidance about your personal development.
Do I have the time?
Councillors have to balance the needs and interests of their residents, voters, political parties and the council. According to the commitments you take on, your work as a councillor can vary from a few hours each week to several hours each day. For most council meetings there are papers to be read beforehand. Some council meetings are held during the working day and so, if you are working, you will need an understanding employer.
What expenses can I claim?
Councillors receive a basic allowance and certain approved duties are eligible for travel and/or subsistence allowances. Some members also receive a special responsibility allowance for particular duties they undertake (for example, chairing a committee).
What other support will I get?
To help you carry out your duties you will be able to use the secretarial and administrative support staff in Members' Services. You can also call on information and advice from the professional officers of the council.
Interested?
If you are thinking of standing as a candidate for a particular political party, then you should first get in touch with that party's local organisation. If you plan to stand for the council as an independent, contact your local elections officer and they will be pleased to give you more information.
Where can I find out more?
To find out more about the role and responsibilities of the councillor please follow the Improvement and Development Agency (IDeA) link.
Contact us
To discuss standing for election in more detail please contact Richard Thomas, Democratic Services Manager as detailed below.
