Are you interested in politics and local government? What is a councillor? What do councils do? Can I stand as a candidate? Where do I begin?
‘Be a Councillor’ is the flagship programme of the Local Government Association aimed at attracting individuals from all walks of life to stand for public office.
The ‘Be a Councillor’ programme
Funded by the UK Government, the LGA promotes the national campaign, raising awareness of the role of a councillor, including how to become a councillor and what the responsibilities are.
Each LGA Political Group Office is provided with specific funding to deliver the programme. The LGA Independent Group does this by hosting some events and tendering out the remaining delivery of the programme. Those commissioned to deliver the programme on behalf of the LGA Independent Group must adhere to specific government criteria and key performance indicators. The LGA Independent Group hosts an annual question and answer session for those interested in bidding for a share of the work and provides help and support throughout the application process. For further information, please contact the LGA Independent Group office.
The LGA Independent Group Candidate School
The LGA Independent Group delivers a Candidate School for those wishing to become councillors, with current councillors and guest speakers from organisations such as ‘Elect Her’ and ‘Operation Black Vote’. From start to finish, the school is aimed at councillor candidates or those interested in standing, covering every stage of becoming a councillor. This includes electoral law, developing a manifesto, canvassing and campaigning, social media as well as election expenses and polling day.
Stay a Councillor
A new programme, the ‘Stay a Councillor’ programme is an LGA Independent Group initiative aimed at current councillors seeking re-election.
The programme will explore the ‘tried and tested’ methods of running a successful re-election campaign, whether in administration or opposition. From start to finish, we look at selling your success, developing a manifesto and staying elected. It will feature current, longstanding councillors experienced in being re-elected and sharing their strategies for success.
For further information, please contact the LGA Independent Group office.