“I do a lot in my community and wanted to support it”
“I became a Councillor because I was asked by an existing Councillor to stand for election. I do a lot in my community and wanted to support it, in particular I wanted to help improve Children’s Services after my experiences of SEND difficulties as a teacher.
“My role involves attending various committees and meetings including as Chair of Children’s Scrutiny Committee and of Hele’s Trust as well as meetings for the Standards Committee and Exeter Highways and Traffic Orders Committee. I also spend time canvassing in my division, answering calls and emails, attending local events, liaising with other Councillors in my area, attending meetings with my political party, prioritising residents’ concerns and communicating them as relevant.
“To create a balance between my role as a Councillor and my daily life, I do try and create boundaries, especially at the weekend and when on holiday. Fortunately, I am retired from my main career.”
It’s about responsibility, honour, resilience
“As a Councillor, I think it’s important to care about your division and have a commitment to the role. Being approachable, responsible, diplomatic, having good communication skills, confidence and the ability to empathise are also important qualities.
“There are lots of rewarding aspects to the job including representing my residents and community, my involvement with Children’s Scrutiny and the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education, as well as meeting new people.
“My proudest achievements during my time as a Councillor have included helping to build a new community centre, being a voice for my community and my work on Children’s Services. I’ve also helped to get some roads resurfaced!
“However, things can take a long time and it’s difficult not being able to action things that are important in my community. It can also be challenging to manage residents’ expectations and deal with any frustration or unpleasantness that this can cause, especially via social media.
“Although it can be a frustrating role as you can’t achieve as much as you would like, I’m generally delighted to see how Councillors work collaboratively with each other, and Officers, and put their Party colours aside for the good of our community.”
“…Democratic Services will give you amazing support”
“My advice to someone considering becoming a Councillor would be to make sure you have a thick skin! It’s really hard to achieve what you want to in your community and a lot of your job is managing residents’ expectations.
“No question is a silly one in your first year! It helps to talk to other experienced Councillors for support. Democratic Services will also give you amazing support, as will your Neighbourhood Highways Officer.”
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.
