Join Our Local Team as a Parish Councillor

 If you care deeply about your community and want to play a part in shaping its future, this could be the perfect opportunity. Whether you have new ideas, want to champion a particular issue, or simply feel motivated to contribute, we’d love to hear from you. We welcome people from all walks of life who can bring their experiences and perspectives to the Parish Council.

There is currently one vacancy on Thurlestone Parish Council, which we hope to fill by co-option at an upcoming ordinary council meeting.

You don’t need any formal qualifications to become a councillor. What matters most is having a genuine interest in the local area and a willingness to represent the community. Training and support are available to help new councillors understand their responsibilities and settle into the role.

If you’re considering applying or would like more information, please contact the Clerk at clerk@thurlestoneparishcouncil.gov.uk. They can explain what the role involves and provide an information pack. During the meeting, candidates will be invited to give a brief statement about their interest in the position, and the council will make its decision by majority vote.

What Does a Parish Councillor Do?

Thurlestone Parish Council consists of seven volunteer councillors who meet monthly to discuss matters affecting the local area.

The council is responsible for setting a portion of local taxation to be used within the parish, reviewing planning applications, and overseeing projects that maintain or enhance the community. As local government evolves, parish councils are taking on more responsibilities and gaining greater opportunities to influence decisions that affect residents.

Serving as a councillor is a meaningful and fulfilling way to make a positive difference in your community.

What Decisions Do Parish Councils Make?

Parish councils deal with a wide range of issues that impact everyday life. Common areas of involvement include:

  • Planning consultations
  • Crime prevention initiatives
  • Supporting local groups and activities
  • Managing open spaces
  • Campaigning for improved services and facilities

Although parish councils have limited direct powers, they play a crucial role in influencing the organisations that do make final decisions — such as district and county councils, health bodies, and the police. Because parish councils reflect the views of their community, their input carries significant weight.

How Much Time Is Involved?

The council meets once a month, and meetings usually last two to three hours depending on the agenda. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

Councillors may occasionally be asked to represent the council at other meetings or community events, or to help develop local projects. These additional commitments are infrequent and manageable.

How Long Does a Councillor Serve?

Councillors are elected for a term of up to four years. Those who wish to continue after their term ends may stand for re-election.

Councillors are expected to attend regular meetings, take part in any additional sessions that arise, and represent the interests of Thurlestone Parish residents by raising and discussing relevant issues.

Who Can Become a Parish Councillor?

You must be:

  • A British citizen, a Commonwealth citizen, or a citizen of the European Union
  • Aged 18 or over

And you must also meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Be a registered local government elector for the parish
  • Have lived in the parish, or within three miles of it, as an owner or tenant for the past 12 months
  • Have had your main place of work in the parish, or within three miles of it, during the past 12 months

You are not eligible if you:

  • Are subject to a bankruptcy restriction order or interim order
  • Have been convicted of an offence within the last five years and received a prison sentence of more than three months (suspended or not) without the option of a fine
  • Are employed by the council you wish to serve (employment with other local authorities is allowed)

You do not need to be affiliated with any political party.

All councillors must agree to follow the Code of Conduct.

What Powers Do Parish Councils Have?

Parish councils have a broad range of powers relating to local services and facilities, including:

  • Managing community assets and open spaces
  • Maintaining play areas, bus shelters, public toilets, and footpaths
  • Supporting local initiatives and improvements

They also have the authority to raise funds through the precept, which is the parish’s share of council tax collected by the district council.

Want to Know More?

The best way to understand what being a councillor is like is to speak to someone already doing the role or attend a council meeting to see it in action.

You may also find these resources helpful: