“I wished to contribute to my community”
“I was inspired to become a Councillor, partly by the example of other people that I knew who had been Councillors and partly because I wished to contribute to my community.
“My role involves advocating for better community facilities for my area, such as better cycle and pedestrian routes and crossing points, as well as supporting local charities and representative bodies, and voting at council meetings and committees according to my beliefs.
“Being a County Councillor takes about 20 to 30 hours per week of my time. If my council responsibilities were greater, then council work would take more time. Alongside my role as a Councillor, I’m also the chair of a charity which runs a day care centre, a part-time farmer and part-time property developer (very small scale). I find it’s a balance but that these other interests help give me some perspective as well.”
“It’s rewarding to help make positive change”
“As a Councillor it’s important to have a sense of purpose, and for me it’s about making a contribution. It’s rewarding to be able to create positive change in your community although a lack of funding can make this challenging.
“My proudest contribution was to help turn a “rat-run” road in my area, which is a vital cycle and pedestrian route, into a “green lane”. This happened soon after I was elected, I had campaigned for it without realising that officers were working towards the same goal. Nevertheless, I was glad to be able to offer the encouragement that was required and which may have enabled the project to move forward relatively easily.”
What would your advice be to someone considering being a Councillor?
“Consider carefully the necessary commitment of time, whether you are able to survive financially on a low level of remuneration and whether you want to represent a political party. Then, if you still want to be a Councillor, campaign and canvas very hard for about four months prior to the election.”
Next steps
Still have questions? Join one of our free information sessions online or in person, download our printable information guide or, if you’re ready to take the next step, learn more about the nomination process.
