Q. Do I have the time?
A. It is possible to spend much of your time on council work but the vast majority of councillors have full time jobs, families and hobbies.
Unless you take on responsibility as a Cabinet member or a Chairman or Vice-Chairman of a committee, your work at the Town Hall should not involve more than a few meetings a month (although this depends on the number of committees/panels you serve on).
In addition to this, the Conservative Group will have private meetings from time to time and you will have meetings to attend in your ward or division.
Q. How much do I need to know?
A. You are not going to be expected to take direct responsibility for running the council on the first day you are elected. The main qualifications are an interest in your community and a willingness to learn. Knowledge, experience and confidence will soon follow.
You will receive support from your local Conservative Association, your council colleagues and the Party. Most local authorities provide training and IT support. Council officers are there to help you, they are professionally trained staff who are employed to carry out the lawful functions and duties of a council. Many council groups employ a political assistant or researcher.
Q. Can I afford it?
A. Councils pay a basic allowance that varies depending on the type and size of the council.
Councils may also pay some telephone and computer charges and provide you with the necessary stationery.
Q. What should I do if I am interested?
A. Simply get in touch with us.
If you wish you can talk to a sitting Conservative councillor in our area, for a better understanding of the work of a councillor and the commitment involved.
For more information, you can also contact the Conservative Councillors' Association (CCA), here.