A councillor does not receive a salary, but they do receive a basic annual allowance of about £15,000 to cover expenses and time spent on council business. A councillor with extra responsibilities such as positions in the Cabinet, chairs of committees or boards, may receive an additional allowance.
Details of the Councillors’ (also known as Members) Allowances Scheme can be found in section 7 of the Constitution.
In addition to a basic allowance, the Council provides elected councillors with access to the Council’s benefits platform, Vivup, and its Employee Assistance Programme. Councillors are also entitled to maternity, paternity, shared parental, and adoption leave, as well as travelling and subsistence allowances, and a carers allowance. Read more about the training, support and benefits the Council offers councillors.
Remember that being a councillor is about giving back to the community. It’s a varied and fulfilling role that doesn’t require specific skills or experience.
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.
