Life as a District Councillor and how to become one

Once you have decided to stand for election as a district councillor, you will need to be proposed and seconded by 2 people. All of these people must be on the register of electors for the ward in which you wish to stand. In addition, they may not subscribe to more nomination papers than there are vacancies to be filled in the ward. Please note that the elector number of each of the people nominating you must be shown correctly against the person's name; a mistake could invalidate the nomination paper. A copy of the Nomination Form should be completed, with the name and signature of each nominator. You may not stand for more than one ward in the same district.

At the same time as submitting the Nomination Form, you will need to complete a Consent to Nomination form. This sets out the grounds on which the candidate is qualified to stand and requires the signature of a witness. The consent must be signed within one calendar month before the last day for delivery of nomination papers.

Association with a Political Party

If you wish to use the name and emblem of a registered political party, you will first need to obtain a certificate of authorisation, issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of the party. This, together with a written request to use a registered party's emblem, must be delivered to the Returning Officer by close of nomination. Details of registered political parties and their registered emblems, together with links to their websites,can be found on the Electoral Commission website. (opens new window)

Independent Candidates

The law now limits the description candidates can use. Unless you are standing on behalf of a political party, you may only use the word 'Independent' or have no description at all.

Election Agents

A candidate may appoint an election agent, but equally can opt to act as his/her own agent. It is the agent's responsibility to ensure that forms are returned on time, and that a clear and accurate record of financial expenditure is maintained. If an election agent's appointment is not received by 4pm on the 19th working day before the day of election, the candidate is deemed to be his or her own agent.

Register of Electors

Every candidate is entitled to receive a copy of the Register of Electors for the ward for which they are standing. However, you may only use it for your election work. (Please note: It will not be available until after the Notice of Election has been published). In order to obtain your copy, you are required to read and sign an undertaking regarding restrictions on the use of the register.

Election Expenses

Expenses incurred by candidates on publicity material, property, services or items for the election campaign will not be reimbursed and are the candidate's responsibility. However, if you are a member of a political group, you may find that financial help is available from the group. It is important that you keep all receipts for expenditure incurred, since all candidates are required to submit an election expenses return. There is a limit on the amount that can be claimed for election expenses; candidates will be advised of this at the time.

Information and Advice

You will receive all the necessary paperwork in a Nomination Pack. There is a significant amount of paperwork involved in nomination, but help, advice and guidance will be provided by the Council's Electoral Services staff from the outset. For more information on how to stand as a councillor, please contact our Elections Team on 01362 656870 or email: elections@breckland.gov.uk

The rules and regulations governing candidature can be complex.You are therefore also advised to look at the website of the Electoral Commission. (opens new window) and review the relevant legislation where appropriate.