- Have you ever wanted to get something done for your community?
- Have you ever thought that the council could spend money better?
- Have you ever wanted to improve public services?
If the answer is yes, then have you ever thought about becoming a city councillor?
The Local Government Association, which is the national body representing local government, has lots of information that will help you understand what is involved.
Read our page about how to become a candidate to find out what you need to do if you decide to put yourself forward for nomination as a councillor.
Workload
Councillors are very active in their community, attend residents’ meetings in their wards, and deal with residents about matters that concern them.
As well as attending the five council meetings held each year, councillors could be asked to serve on one or more committee or working party.
Most committees meet four times a year, but some, such as planning and licensing, meet more often and so the workload of their members is greater.
Information on when committees meet can be found on our democracy website.
Councillors need to spend time reading reports and become familiar with the issues they deal with so that they can make informed decisions.
Councillors must not let their attendance at committee meetings slip for more than six months, otherwise they will cease to be a councillor.
Extra responsibilities
Some councillors take on extra responsibilities such as being a member of the executive, chairing a committee, or acting as a party spokesperson. These can contribute to a heavier workload.
Councillors that belong a political group also need to attend the group’s meetings to discuss reports and agree action before committee meetings.
Many councillors represent the council at other organisations’ meetings.
Help and remuneration
You will receive an induction programme following election, with ongoing training and development to help you perform your role.
Councillors are not paid a salary. However, they do get allowances to cover some of the costs of being a councillor.
Check our page about councillors’ duties, conduct and allowances to find out more.
Extra benefits
Councillors at Cambridge City Council are entitled to:
- a pass giving free entry to Grand Arcade car park, to facilitate attendance at meetings
- free swimming at Better pools in Cambridge
- access to the Employee Assistance Programme, which provides confidential professional advice on a variety of matters such as mental health, physical, financial or personal issues
- free use of a hot and cold beverage machine on the first floor of the Guildhall
The council meets the costs of attendance at conferences and other approved training events, both within the city and further afield. Travel and accommodation expenses are also met as required.
Attendance at civic events
Councillors receive invitations to support the mayor at civic events, such as receptions, the Proclamation of Reach and Midsummer Fairs. Appropriate refreshments and catering are provided.
