Become a Town Councillor

Being a councillor offers the unique opportunity to directly contribute to your community and the future of Falmouth. It’s a role that is both rewarding and impactful, where you can bring fresh ideas, passion, and dedication to improving your community. 

Councillors are at the heart of local decision-making, ensuring that services meet the needs of all residents, and that new policies and initiatives align with the town’s long-term vision. Councillors also have a duty of care to Council Staff and volunteers.

You don’t need prior experience. What matters is your willingness to serve the community and your commitment to making a difference. Councillors represent all people in their ward and are crucial in decisions related to local services, planning, and economic development.

It is important that the Council represent a cross section of all the walks of life of our community and that Councillors have different levels of education, knowledge, and experience. Councillors serve a four-year term. 

You can stand for election as an independent councillor or as a representative of a political party, but to do that then you must be their duly authorised candidate. 

For an informal chat about becoming a Councillor please contact Mark Williams, Town Clerk. Email: admin@falmouthtowncouncil.com Tel: 01326 315559

You can stand as a candidate if:

• you are at least 18 years old
• a British citizen, a qualifying Commonwealth citizen or an EU citizen with right to remain (if required)
• you are on an electoral register, or have lived, worked, or owned property in Falmouth for at least twelve months before the date of election. 
• you are not an employee of the Council
  

The role of a Town Councillor is varied, flexible, and highly rewarding. Councillors engage with their communities, represent residents’ interests, and make crucial decisions on local issues.

Key duties include:

• Engagement: Attending local events, holding street meetings, and interacting with residents to understand their concerns.
• Casework: Assisting with personal or community issues such as housing, safety, or local services.
• Decision-Making: Participating in council meetings, reading reports, and voting on policies that affect the town.
• Partnership Building: Working with local businesses, charities, and other organisations to address community needs and enhance Falmouth’s future.

Councillors are key in shaping policies that will influence the direction of Falmouth for years to come – from improving local infrastructure to creating more green spaces and tackling climate change.

Not at all! Town Councillors come from all walks of life, and you don’t need any specific qualifications to stand for election. You will receive comprehensive training and support once elected.

However, certain skills can help you succeed in the role:

• Leadership & Communication: Being able to represent your community and collaborate with others.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing local challenges and finding effective solutions.
• Time Management: Balancing your responsibilities as a councillor with your other commitments.
• Political Understanding: An understanding of how local government functions will help you navigate your role more effectively.

Yes! Many councillors balance their roles with their regular jobs. Your employer must allow you reasonable time off to attend to councillor duties, although they are not obliged to pay you for this time.

Being a councillor can also enhance your career by providing valuable skills in leadership, problem-solving, and community engagement.

While being a councillor does require a time commitment, it is flexible. How much time you spend per week on council duties can vary depending on your role and responsibilities. 

Town Councillors are expected to attend all Full Council and relevant committee meetings. These typically take place in the evenings and can last between one and three hours. On average the Council meets 4 to 6 times per annum and its various Committees meet on bi-monthly or three-weekly cycles. Please consult our Council Meetings page for more information.

In addition, Town Councillors may be asked to participate in community events and attend monthly Councillor surgeries.

To stand for election to the Town Council, you’ll need to complete and submit a Candidate Nomination Paper and you must be nominated by 2 people from your ward who are on the Electoral Register.

Nomination papers are available electronically from Cornwall Council.
Email: voter-registration@cornwall.gov.uk
Phone: 01872 324196

You can also download blank candidate papers online from Cornwall Council’s Guidance for Candidates and Agents page on their website.

Nominations papers must be returned to a designated Cornwall Council elections office no later than 4pm on Wednesday 2 April 2025. Details of the designated offices are included in the candidate papers.

Once elected, you’ll receive full training and ongoing support, including:

• Induction Training – An introduction to council procedures and services to help you get started.
• Ongoing Development – Access to courses and resources to build your knowledge and skills.
• Networking Opportunities – Connect with fellow councillors for advice, support, and shared ideas.

Some training is mandatory. All Councillors must attend induction and familiarisation sessions in May 2025, held within the two weeks following the election. Additional training is required for certain roles, such as serving on the Planning & Licensing Committee, Staffing Committee, or chairing a committee.

Throughout your term, you’ll be supported by the Officer Team, including the Town Clerk, Town Manager, Responsible Financial Officer, and Administrative Officer, who will assist you in your work within the Council and your Ward.

Serving as a Falmouth Town Councillor is a voluntary role and is unpaid.