Guide: How to become a County Councillor
Part 8
Becoming a councillor
Local people become councillors for many different reasons, but mainly because they feel strongly about the area in which they live and they want to make a difference.
They may already work with local organisations and residents’ groups with the sole aim of improving their community.
Existing councillors have said …..
“I care passionately about the community in which I was brought up, and wanted quite simply to be able to put something back into that community. Ultimately I really like trying to help people.”
“I wholeheartedly believe in a fair and open society with transparency of governance and being a Councillor is the best way to promote these principles for the benefit of my local community.”
“I feel passionate about my community and that led me to stand for the County Council. No use complaining from the side lines, you need get in there and try and make a difference”
“Having been a volunteer for years in the community and listened to many concerns I wanted to give local people a voice for change. As a Councillor I felt I could represent those with the least choice and most need, and improve council services for them.”
The Council is calling on you ………
The Council is hoping to instil enthusiasm for local government, and wants the opportunity to appeal to people of all backgrounds.
The Council’s Chief Executive, Phil Norrey, says:
“The Council is only ever as vibrant, effective and relevant as the people elected to run it. The decisions made by our councillors affect residents’ quality of life in countless ways, from education, health and wellbeing and roads to supporting local businesses.”
If anything, life experience is the most important attribute a councillor can bring to the role. There are some conditions, but generally any UK, Commonwealth or EU citizen over 18 who lives or works in Devon, can stand for election as a Devon County Councillor.
They can belong to a political party, or they can stand as independent candidates, separate from political parties.
Local people become councillors for many reasons, but mainly because they feel strongly about the area in which they live and they want to make a difference.
Many of our current Devon County Councillors come from a range of backgrounds, some still in their first term while others have successfully been re-elected many times.
For further information about the Council and Standing for Election, please contact:
Karen Strahan
Democratic Services and Scrutiny Manager
Telephone 01392 382264
Email karen.strahan@devon.gov.uk
Other useful websites
- LGA ‘Be a Councillor’ Campaign – Experiences of other councillors
- Electoral Commission – Guidance for potential candidates
- Local Government Association – Political Groups
- LGA Councillors Guide 2019/20
You are at the end of this guide