Would you stand for it? That’s what Cornwall Council is asking in a campaign to encourage people from a variety of backgrounds to stand as a Cornwall Councillor in the May 2013 elections.

The campaign includes a councillor fair at County Hall, Truro, on Saturday, January 26, where prospective candidates can come along and find out more about the role of a Cornwall councillor and meet their political group if they have one.

Registration for the fair is online at www.cornwall.gov.uk/beacouncillor by email to beacouncillor@cornwall.gov.uk or call 01872 322140.

 

Richard Williams, the senior officer responsible for overseeing elections and supporting councillors in their roles said: "Elected members not only need to find the balance between their civic responsibilities, work and family, but the role of a councillor will require looking after the interests of constituents whilst, at the same time, taking part in meetings and other aspects of the democratic process.

"The role of a local councillor requires finding a balance between several key responsibilities. They will need to represent the people in your electoral division and act as an advocate for their best interests. They also have a central role in decision making, in gathering evidence to inform and scrutinise cabinet decisions and ensuring the democratic process is robust.

"Add to that a responsibility to the employees of the council and as a corporate parent for all children in local authority care, and it’s clear they need to be able to handle a range of things at once."