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There are many reasons why people decide to become a local councillor: |
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they want to make a difference and be involved in shaping the future of the local community
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they are concerned about the local area in which
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they live and want to ensure that their localcommunity get the services needed
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they want to represent the views of local people and ensure that local community interests are taken into account
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they want to pursue their political beliefs
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they are concerned about one particular issue, for example care for older people, the lack of facilities in an area, or traffic congestion
For some, it is an extension of what they are already doing, as they are active in a political party, trade union, or school governing body, and they see the next step is to become a councillor.
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The question was put to some of our current councillors who told us:
"I became a councillor to contribute to the wellbeing of my constituents rather than being a critic of local bureaucracy."
Councillor John Allen (Thurncourt Ward Councillor)
"I thought councillors were not representing the views of many local people and I could make a difference. It is now a different job persuading councillors I am right. I don't get my way on all issues but at least I am making a difference some of the time."
Councillor Ross Grant (Knighton Ward Councillor)
"I wanted the best for the area I lived in and I wanted to improve things"
Councillor Mary Draycott (Coleman Ward Councillor)
"I wanted to serve as an elected representative of the area in which I had lived for 20 years"
Councillor Roger Blackmore (Western Park Councillor)
"I enjoy helping people, helping them to access services and supporting them when things go wrong. I also enjoy being able to influence policy, ensuring residents get the best possible services from their local council"
Councillor Vi Dempster (Beaumont Leys Ward Councillor)
To help strengthen local democracy, Leicester City Council is very keen to attract people from a broad range of backgrounds to stand as a candidate.
