Support and advice
We employ officers to support and advise councillors and they will provide you with all the information you need to take decisions.
Officers are also responsible for implementing the decisions that you have helped to make.
There is a also dedicated team of officers who manage the council's meetings and decision making process and provide general support and advice to councillors.
Computer equipment will be provided and you will have access to a dedicated IT support team. Training is available to help you use the equipment effectively.
You will have the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive induction programme. This will help you gain an understanding of how the council works and the services it provides, as well as what will be expected of you.
If you are appointed to a committee that deals with quasi-judicial issues, such as the determination of planning applications, special training will be provided.
More useful information is available from the Electoral Commission and the Improvement and Development Agency websites (see Useful Links)
Do councillors get paid?
- Councillors do not receive a salary but they are entitled to receive an allowance.
- All county councillors receive a Basic Allowance, paid in monthly instalments.
- Councillors can also claim expenses to cover costs arising from things like childcare or dependent care and travelling that are incurred whilst working on council business.
- Those councillors who also hold a position of special responsibility such as a member of the Cabinet or the Chairman of a committee receive an additional allowance known as a Special Responsibility Allowance.
Will my employer support me if I choose to stand for election?
You are entitled to reasonable time off for council duties. More information is available in our fact sheet: