Could you be a councillor? Here's how to take the first steps to a rewarding and privileged role

Are you passionate about your local community? Then why not become a councillor?

The search is on for people of all backgrounds and experience who could make a difference in their community by becoming a councillor in Stockton-on-Tees Borough.

It's a chance to have a positive impact on the quality of life of local people and influence the way issues affecting communities are dealt with at a Council level.

Being a councillor can be very rewarding and involves:

• Listening to the needs of local people to take their views into account when considering policy proposals

• Dealing with issues fairly and without prejudice

• Championing causes which further the interests, quality of life and sustainable development of your community

• Developing a working knowledge of the organisations, services, activities and other factors important to your community's wellbeing and identity

• Contributing to good governance and actively encouraging community participation in decision-making

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is running two events where you can learn more about the role of a councillor and ask any questions.

Those attending will hear about some of the Council's latest major successes as well as challenges and what is being done to overcome them.

Current councillors from across the political spectrum will be on hand to answer questions and provide practical advice about fitting the role around work, family and other commitments.

There will also be information about how to stand as a candidate and the support and training available once a person is elected.

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, will be giving a brief insight into his own journey to becoming and being a councillor.

As a school governor and on the management committee of a local law centre, Cllr Cook was always interested in working in the community and decided to try and get elected to the Council to help ensure the delivery of services needed by the Borough's residents. He has enjoyed the privilege of being the Leader of the Council since 2011.

Cllr Cook said: "Being a councillor is highly rewarding. No other role gives you a chance to make such a huge difference to the quality of life of people in your local area and to influence the way issues are dealt with locally.

"These events are ideal opportunities for those who are already actively involved in the community to find out about making a difference as a councillor. Our previous campaigns have seen a number of local people from all walks of life become successful councillors.

"We are looking for people who are determined, capable, hard-working, willing to learn and have a passion for their community. Their decisions affect the lives of residents so above all candidates must be committed to representing their local community.

"You do not have to be a member of the big three political parties to stand for election, you can be an independent councillor or stand for another party." 

The events are:

• 6pm, Tuesday 31 May - Jim Cooke Suite, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton, TS18 1LD

• 6pm, Monday 6 June - Virtual Microsoft Teams Meeting 

If you would like to book a place email democratic.services@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 524987.

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