Have You Thought About Becoming A Parish Councillor?

COUNCILLOR VACANCY

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT BECOMING A PARISH COUNCILLOR?

What do councillors do? They represent people in the local community and are in a position to make a difference to the quality of other people’s daily lives. To be an effective councillor requires commitment.

What does it involve? As a local councillor you can become a voice for your community and make real change. Local councillors are the champions of their community who invest time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood.

Local councillors attend to local needs of residents, local groups and businesses, make decisions on local services, collaborate with district and county councils to adhere to local needs, and progress vital projects to invest in the future of the community.

Will I be able to make decisions? Yes, all councillors are involved in making decisions about how the Council is run and how it should spend its money.

But I’m not political? Hassocks Parish Council is a non-political body; our councillors are not affiliated to any political party.

What skills do I need to be a councillor? The Council needs a wide range of skills and experience so you don’t need any special or formal qualifications to be a councillor.  It will help to have good communication skills; problem solving skills; team working experience; organisational skills; the ability to engage with the local community, and basic technological skills for emails.

How much time does it involve? The Council is made up of 15 Councillors and Council meets monthly at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of each month in the Parish Centre.  In addition Planning Committee meet every 3 weeks and other committees such as Grounds & Environment, Policy Resources & Communication and the Neighbourhood Plan Committee meet every 6 weeks if required.

Do councillors get paid? No, this is a voluntary role which most people find extremely rewarding.

What training will I be offered? All new councillors are provided with the opportunity to attend an introductory training course which is supplemented with an induction pack to help with the basics.  Assistance and support are always on hand from other councillors and the Clerk.

I’m interested in being considered for co-option onto the Council as a member what do I need to do?

If you require any further information about becoming a councillor please contact our Parish Clerk, Ian Cumberworth.

Tel: 01273 842714; Email: clerk@hassocks-pc.gov.uk