If you are passionate about your local community, we need you. Labour councillors make a huge difference to the quality of life of local people and how local issues are dealt with.
We need people from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect the communities they serve to put themselves forward for election.
To be a Labour councillor, you must be a Labour Party member.
Being a Labour councillor is all about giving back to your community by bringing your energy, passion, and hard-working attitude. You can make a real difference to the local community and wider society in many ways. For example, you could be representing the views of local people to ensure the community gets the right services, supporting a resident with an issue, or helping to shape the community by driving new ideas. Where Labour is in power, they provide the political leadership for the council. Where Labour is in opposition they hold the leadership to account.
Councillors are responsible for approximately £1 in every £4 of public spending. They oversee vital public services including adult and children’s social care, local transport, education, and public health, and operating important community resources such as children’s centres, libraries, parks and leisure centres. Councils also collect and dispose of waste, keep streets clean, and manage millions of council homes.
For more general information about the role of a councillor please visit the Local Government Association’s (LGA) be a councillor page.
For more information about being a Labour councillor please email: [email protected]
Being A Labour Councillor – Cllr Carole Williams, London Borough of Hackney
Why I became a Councillor
I never set out to have a political career but, after university, I was fortunate enough to work for a Labour MP. That experience sparked a passion for politics, leading me to work for the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) and later at the Greater London Authority (GLA). I had well and truly caught the political bug, so when I was asked to consider standing for election in Hackney, I didn’t hesitate.
During my time as a councillor, I’ve witnessed first-hand the real difference local government can make in people’s lives. Whether it’s securing a pedestrian crossing, ensuring dangerous pavements are fixed, or standing up for residents against powerful corporations in planning and licensing disputes, councillors play a crucial role in their communities. From promoting local apprenticeship schemes to hosting advice surgeries, I’ve seen how being a visible and active representative can bring about real change.
My journey into local government is deep-rooted values and early experiences and my experiences volunteering in my community. As a Black, woman living with multiple long-term health conditions, I am acutely aware of the barriers faced by marginalised and racialised communities. I understand how systemic inequalities can limit opportunities and how confidence can be gradually eroded over time. My role as a councillor is to be present and stand by my constituents during their most challenging moments - whether they are grieving the loss of a loved one, battling an illness, or navigating bureaucratic obstacles. It's a responsibility I take seriously and an honour I deeply cherish.
What I find the most rewarding
One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role has been the opportunity to deliver tangible outcomes for my community. As a Cabinet Member I am a founding member of the Leading Inclusive Futures in Technology programme, a partnership with three other London boroughs. This initiative has delivered hundreds of job and training opportunities for Hackney residents, a significant proportion of which are for women, young people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background, and for disabled residents.
Over the six years, our corporate apprenticeship programme has changed the lives of hundreds of young people. Seeing residents thrive because of the council’s work is always rewarding, but one moment stands out. A former apprentice’s mum called her son so he could tell me how his life has changed after becoming an apprentice on Hackney’s multi-award-winning programme. After graduating, he went on to land a corporate job and was living his dream in South East Asia. Seeing that kind of transformation - the shift from uncertainty to a promising international career - gives meaning to my job as a councillor and cabinet member. There’s real power in local government to change lives.
How I balance being a Councillor with the rest of my life
Being a councillor is demanding, but like any commitment, it’s about balance. Public service is an integral part of my life, but I also make time for my personal wellbeing, my family and the things that keep me grounded. It’s important to set out boundaries and create space to recharge, ensuring that I can be the most effective representative for my community.
Wider support and being a woman Councillor
The LGA has an incredible option for members thinking about standing for public office. The Be a Councillor page on their website has everything you need to understand what councils do, how to balance your work, studies, and caring responsibilities around your councillor commitments, and support you can expect when you’re elected.
Within the labour movement, there is fantastic support on offer, including Labour Women’s Network and Fabian Women. These organisations, along with cross party groups like Elect Her, play a crucial role in supporting women who want to stand for election or navigate public office. It’s inspiring to see these networks grow and empower more women to take leadership roles in their communities.
Why you should stand
We’re looking for dedicated community champions to stand for Labour and win.
If you care about your community, believe in social justice, and want to put Labour values into action, becoming a councillor could be one of the most rewarding things you do. The Be a Councillor programme is here to make that journey as accessible as possible.
Through informative sessions featuring local government experts and experienced councillors, you’ll get an honest, first-hand account of what the role entails - challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. With regular online sessions, it’s never been easier to get involved. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, engage with experts, and become part of a network of like-minded individuals committed to making a real difference. If you’re already a Labour Party member then keep a look out for regular sessions.
Becoming a Labour Councillor could be one of the most impactful decisions you ever make. Since I first stood, I’ve never looked back. So why not take the first step today?
For more information please email: [email protected]