The Local Government Association (LGA) Councillor Census found that disabled people are consistently underrepresented on councils.
Being a councillor is all about giving back to your community, bringing your energy and passion and working hard to make a real difference - to local people and to wider society. A key role of a councillor is to represent their local community. Councillors are committed to raising awareness of issues and promoting the best interests of their local area. This is why councillors must be representative of their neighbourhoods and communities.
The Local Government Association (LGA) Councillor Census found that disabled people are consistently underrepresented on councils. In 2018 a record number of councillors declared a disability or long-term impairment – 16.1per cent. Between 2004 and 2013 the proportion varied from 10.9 per cent to 14.1 per cent. This is despite just over 20 per cent of the population as a whole having a limiting long-term illness, condition or impairment. Further statistics can be found in the 2018 Councillor Census.
This guide aims to provide information to help you consider becoming a councillor. It covers key areas such as the role and expectations of councillors, how to become a councillor and whether becoming a councillor will impact any benefits you receive.
We have developed this guide with the help of disabled councillors to share their experiences.