Become a councillor

Looking to make a difference in your local area? Drive change and represent your community by becoming a councillor.

Key qualities of being a councillor

We need councillors who are capable, energetic and engaged, with a commitment to local people and a passion for change. 

South Staffordshire Council can only be as effective, relevant and vibrant as the people elected to run it.

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 influence the way issues are dealt with locally and across South Staffordshire. 

Useful resources

A guide to being a councillor: A summary publication that outlines the role of a councillor, how the council works, and provides contact details for further information.

The Electoral Commission Candidate and Agent guidance: A link to all of the current guidance for candidates and candidate agents.

Want to find out more about being a councillor for a political party? Click here

Interested in other political parties? View the Register of Political Parties here

So you've been elected - what to do next

  1. You should have signed your Declaration of Acceptance of Office and should have access to a copy of the Code of Conduct for your authority which you are now bound by.
     
  2. You must complete your register of disclosable pecuniary interest form (DPI Form) within 28 days of being elected. This form should be sent to the monitoring officer at South Staffordshire District Council, Codsall Community Hub, Codsall, South Staffordshire, WV8 1PX. For parish councillors, your clerk will take a copy first.
     
  3. You must declare any interests in accordance with the provisions of the Code of Conduct; the requirements are set out in the Code and you should familiarise yourself with these provisions as soon as possible.
     
  4. The Local Government Association has a wealth of knowledge which is available here.
     
  5. Familiarise yourself with your council's standing orders (or rules of procedure) – so you know how meetings will operate and who has the power to act in certain situations. These are available from your clerk or member support if a district councillor.
     
  6. Don't be afraid to ask! South Staffordshire Council is here to support you. - For parish councillors, your clerk has a wealth of knowledge and understanding 

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