Do you want to make a difference? How to become a town councillor…
There are many reasons people become a councillor:
• To make a difference in the community
• To represent the views of local people
• To pursue your political beliefs
To qualify to be a councillor there are three basic qualifications, you must be:
• Over 18 years old
• A British or Commonwealth citizen or a citizen of the Irish Republic or other European Union State.
• Registered to vote in Whitworth or have lived, worked, or owned property here for at least 12 months prior to the election.
What does Whitworth Town Council do?
• Employs a part-time Parish Lengthsman and full time Town Caretaker who, between them, keep the town as clean and tidy as possible;
• Acts as a pressure group upholding the rights and values of the Township;
• Acts as a sounding board for local opinion;
• Acts as a centre for retaining and enforcing the Town's historical, cultural and social identity;
• Inspects and comments on all planning applications and is consulted on new bye laws;
• Actively encourages voluntary initiatives and works hard to encourage tourism and economic regeneration;
• Nominates school governors and appoints trustees to local charities and representatives on such bodies as the Whitworth Sports Council, Police meetings and the Healey Dell Joint Management Committee.
• Produces the Whitworth Valley News magazine;
• Runs and supports many local initiatives such as the Community Toilet Scheme and sponsorship of a vehicle for the PCSO.
What is the councillors role?
• The Council make most of their decisions at meetings which are open to the public, most of these happen on Thursday evenings and councillors are required to attend.
• You can vary the amount of time the role takes up by choosing how many committees to sit on.
• There is no salary for being a councillor however you are entitled to travel expenses if you attend meetings outside of Whitworth.
What support will I receive?
• Councillors are supported by our Town Clerk.
• All councillors will be provided with an induction pack and an initial induction training session which will help you fulfil your role as a councillor.
I would like to be a councillor, what should I do next?
• Contact Melanie Hearn, Town Clerk 01706 852018 or use the contact us link.