Becoming a councillor: Eligibility and what’s involved

From the section: Becoming a councillor

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Becoming a councillor: Eligibility and what’s involved

This page outlines who can become a councillor and what the role involves. 

Who can become a councillor? 

To stand for election, on the day of nomination, you must be: 

  • 18 or over
  • a British citizen, an eligible Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, a qualifying EU citizen or an EU citizen with retained rights
  • registered to vote in the area or have lived, worked or owned property there for at least 12 months before the election date

You cannot stand if you: 

  • work for Solihull Council
  • work in a politically restricted post for another local authority
  • are the subject of bankruptcy restrictions order or interim order
  • have served a prison sentence (including suspended sentences) of three months or more within five years prior to the election
  • have been disqualified under any legislation relating to corrupt or illegal practices
  • are subject to any relevant notification requirements, or a relevant order, related to a sexual offence

Do I need any skills, experience or special qualifications?

You don’t need any councillor experience or qualifications. You will receive training once elected.

However, it’s important that councillors can represent the diverse communities that they serve, so a broad range of skills and experiences will be beneficial. 

Your lived experiences can equip you with valuable skills and knowledge. For example:

  • being an active member of local groups and organisations
  • raising a family
  • being a carer for a family member

What support will I get?

Although it can seem daunting at first, we are here to support you in any way we can. There is no expectation for you to already know how to be a councillor.

If you are elected, you will be supported through an induction programme and ongoing development plans to equip you with the skills and training to be a councillor. 

The induction programme will cover topics including:

  • code of conduct
  • personal safety
  • data protection and cyber security
  • council finances and the budget
  • safeguarding and corporate parenting
  • community leadership and engagement
  • equality and diversity
  • committee training (e.g. planning, licensing)
  • the role of Scrutiny 

Some training and development will be compulsory while other training may be optional. You will receive regular updates about available training, and you can choose which courses will help you to develop in your role.

We will provide you with the necessary IT equipment.

Can I have a job and be a councillor? 

If you are working, your employer must allow you by law to take a reasonable amount of time off during working hours to perform your duties as a councillor. The amount of time given will depend on your responsibilities and the effect of your absence on your employer’s business. 

Council meetings are held during the evenings, and you will need to attend several meetings in person. Employers can choose to pay you for this time, but they don’t have to. 

We would encourage you to discuss your plans to stand for election with your employer before committing to doing so. 

Many employers are supportive and understand the importance, value and mutual benefits of their employees contributing to the community in this way. 

There are many benefits to both the employee and employer, including practical work experience, skills and knowledge, which can be transferred to the workplace.

Do I have to belong to a political party or group?

You can stand as an independent candidate or by joining a group or political party. 

If you are thinking of standing as a candidate for a particular political party, you will need to be a member of that party’s local organisation. 

How much time is involved in being a councillor?

You can manage the role flexibly around your commitments such as employment, studying, caring and volunteering. 

The time commitment will depend on:

  • your role within the Council
  • the number of duties you decide to take on
  • the demands of your constituents 

It could range from a few hours each week to a few hours each day during busier times. It’s important you attend all full Council meetings and every committee you have been appointed to.

How your time is split

Your time as a councillor will be split between two responsibilities:

  • your ward
  • the Council