Are you passionate about where you live? Would you like to make a real difference in your community? Have you considered registering to become a councillor?

On Thursday 7 May 2015 elections will be held to fill the seats of the 36 wards which are being contested in the Bay along with the 12 seats being contested in Brixham Parish.

Torbay Council and Brixham Town Council provide local services to residents and visitors to Torbay. Torbay is split into wards and two or three councillors are elected to represent each ward. The Mayor is elected to represent the whole of Torbay on Torbay Council.

As a councillor you will represent everyone in your ward – not just those that voted for you – and to serve the council as a whole. You will be a:

• Representative, acting as a source of information or point of access to council services.
• Community leader, developing links with all parts of the community and supporting local partnerships/organisations to campaign on local issues.
• Policy maker, attending meetings to discuss and approve council budget and policy. The Mayor may invite you to become a Cabinet member to oversee implementation of policies.
• Scrutineer, you may become involved to act as Torbay Council’s ‘watchdog’ to review/improve services for local people and investigate issues of local concern.

If you are successful and are elected you will be given personal support to ensure training/development opportunities are tailor-made to suit your needs. A carefully planned induction programme will start immediately after the election so you are well prepared to start in your new role. Further training and development will be available throughout your time as a councillor to help you develop your skills.

Caroline Taylor Acting Returning Officer for the Parliamentary election and Returning Officer for council and mayoral elections has said “Becoming a local Councillor is a fantastic way of serving your community. If you are a passionate individual who cares about where you live, becoming a Councillor is a great way to express that.”

No previous experience or qualifications are required and you don’t have to be part of a political party. If you are interested and would like to know more contact the Governance Support Team at governance.support@torbay.gov.uk or Telephone: 01803 207087.