The Role of the Parish Councillor

If you are interested in becoming a Parish Councillor, some useful basic information is contained in the booklet "All About Parish and Town Councils" - download here - pdf.

More comprehensive guidance information on the role can be found in the document "The Good Councillors' Guide" - download pdf here.

Here is some key summary information:

The Role

Parish Councillors are elected by the public at an ordinary election, every four years. In the interim period vacancies can be filled by bye-election or co-option.

Being a Parish Councillor is an unpaid position.

Effort Required

TIME - It is possible to spend a lot of time on council work - but most people have jobs, families and hobbies that also demand a lot of time. However, as with most things, the more you put in, the more you (and your community) will get out.

Meetings

Grimsargh Parish Council Meetings are usually held on the first Thursday of the month, 7.30pm in the Village Hall.

Eligibility and Requirements

Initially, you may have little knowledge of Council work but this will come along with training, support and experience.

As a new Councillor, you will bring to the Council fresh enthusiasm and new ideas, a passion for your community and a willingness to learn.

A candidate for a Parish or Town Council is qualified if, when nominated:

1. he or she is a British subject or Irish citizen,
2. is 18 years of age, and
3. is either in the list of electors for that Parish or Town or has during the whole of the preceding twelve months:

a. occupied land as owner or tenant in it, or
b. had a principal place of work there, or
c. resided in or within three miles of it.

Disqualifications - you cannot stand for election if you:

  • are the subject of a bankruptcy restriction order or interim order
  • have, within 5 years before the day of the election, been convicted in the UK of any offence and have had a prison sentence (whether suspended or not) for a period of over 3 months without the option of a fine
  • work for the council you want to become a councillor for