Introduction
Being a councillor is a great way to speak up for your community. You can stand for election in your town or parish or for the Somerset Council.
Anyone can become a councillor if they represent themselves as an independent candidate. You can also become a councillor if you’re a member of a political party. If you want to represent a party, you will first need to join one and ask them to select you as their candidate for your area.
If you want to stand as an independent councillor visit Local Elections England – Electoral Commission for information.
You can find more information on how to become a councillor on the Local Government Association website. The Local Government Association have also produced a series of useful handbooks to help councillors including A councillor’s workbook on being an effective ward councillor.
What would be expected of you
The Principles of Public Life
The Seven Principles of Public Life apply to anyone who is elected as a councillor. The details are set out on GOV.UK – The Seven Principles of Public Life.
Representing the people
As a councillor you will be involved with individuals and groups with a range of problems and priorities.
You will need to speak up for people in your area, whether they voted for you or not. You won’t always be able to agree with them because you have to consider the wider needs of the community as well as individual concerns.
Working with the community
You will be part of one of the 18 Local Community Networks across Somerset. Area Committees consist of local division councillors with input from residents, parish councils, representatives of voluntary organisations, stake-holders and others.
Representing the Council
You may be called on to represent the Council on organisations such as charities, trusts or voluntary groups and you will have to put forward the views of the Council.
Political accountability
You will have a say in political decisions with your colleagues and other councillors. You will need to be able to answer for your actions and those of any group you are a member of.
If you are an opposition member, the role of checking and questioning the decisions of the controlling group will fall to you.
Declaration of interests
Councillor must also declare private interests to prevent conflicts of interest, ensure impartial decision-making, and maintain public trust. By publicly disclosing financial or personal affiliations, officials prove they are acting in the public interest rather than for personal or financial gain.
Disclosure policy
As part of becoming a councillor you will also undertake appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.
Payment and allowances
A basic allowance is paid to each councillor. Find out more about allowances and payments