Being a councillor involves a huge variety of work, some of which can be challenging, but is almost always hugely rewarding as you can make a real difference to individuals lives and to the area you represent.
Did you know you don't have to belong to a political party to become a councillor in Scotland? 1 in 6 councillors in Scotland are independent
What support is available to councillors?
There is support for councillors. There will always be someone who can offer advice or support on any issue and all you would have to do is ask. More often, it will be the more senior officers including the Chief Executive, Corporate Directors and Senior Management helping you to make the right decisions.
If you are a member of a political group, or other group, support and assistance will also be available from other members of your group.
Can I get help with my paper work?
We offer members support in various ways.
- a confidential secretarial service;
- help with dealing with enquiries and complaints from your constituents;
- dealing with members' enquiries;
- booking external meetings/seminars and making the necessary travel arrangements; and
- administering members' allowances;
- you may be offered a PC and printer for use at home with e-mail and internet access.
- you will have access to members' rooms and meeting rooms.
Will I need to work at home?
You will be required to work at home reading your papers, preparing for forthcoming meetings and dealing with enquiries from the public.
As already mentioned most councillors receive a PC connected to the intranet and the internet for research purposes, looking at reports on-line and responding to e-mails from their constituents.
Is there any training available for new councillors?
Immediately upon election we arrange induction training for councillors including introductions to directors and a tour of departments. The dates for these will be given to you along with other key dates well in advance of the election so that you can put them in your diary at the 'candidate' stage.
If you are a member of a political or other group there could be training and support from your political group.
Some training will be required for all members in matters such as the code of conduct and equalities. Other training will be required if you take on a particular responsibility such as a member of a planning or licensing committee.
There will be training in a range of skills to help you develop your role, available to you if you wish.
Being a local councillor
You can hear more from councillors across Scotland, including Fife Councillor Dave Dempsey, to find out why he became a councillor, the difference he makes and his advice if you are thinking of standing at localcouncillor.scot.