Being a councillor demands commitment and hard work, but it can be managed flexibly alongside other responsibilities like employment, studying, and caring. Despite the challenges, the role is highly fulfilling and rewarding for the positive impact you can make in your community.
The time spent being a councillor depends on the responsibilities and commitments you take up. On average, councillors spend up to 20 hours per week on council business. A councillor who also has responsibility in a Leader, Cabinet or Chair of a Committee position, will spend more than 20 hours on council business but also receive a special responsibility allowance for this.
You will be required to attend some council meetings such as Full Council meetings and in addition some committee meetings (depending on what committees you sit on) which will mostly be at the Council’s main offices in Exeter, although some meetings could be held elsewhere in the county. Most of these meetings are held during the day. You will also need to spend time dealing with your constituents’ queries. Much of this will be via email so it is important to regularly check and respond to emails.
Devon is a rural county therefore councillor’s may spend longer on travelling than a councillor in a smaller urban county.
Before you consider becoming a councillor, you may want to discuss it with your family and friends to ensure that they understand that you will need their support and understanding.
Once elected to Devon County Council, you can be a councillor for a maximum of four years when elections will be held again. You can of course then re-stand for another term.
Next steps
Still have questions? Join one of our free information sessions online or in person, download our printable information guide or, if you’re ready to take the next step, learn more about the nomination process.
