Interested in becoming a councillor? Find out more at Charnwood event
People interested in standing at the next local elections in Charnwood can learn more about becoming a councillor at a special event in November.
Charnwood Borough Council is inviting prospective candidates to attend its Be a Councillor event ahead of next year’s elections.
On 6 May 2027, there will be elections for the 52 council seats on Charnwood Borough Council, as well as for town and parish councils in the borough.
The Be a Councillor session will take place at the Council's offices in Southfield Road, Loughborough, on Saturday 21 November 2026, from 11am to 1pm.
It is mainly focused on the borough elections but would be of use for anyone considering standing as a town and parish councillor.
Charnwood Borough Council delivers a range of services including bin collections, street cleaning, planning, managing council housing as well as operating Loughborough Town Hall, Loughborough Markets and Charnwood Museum.
To stand as a candidate in the Charnwood Borough Council elections, you must be aged 18 or over and be a British, eligible Commonwealth or EU citizen.
You must also meet at least one of these requirements:
- be registered to vote in Charnwood.
- have lived in Charnwood for the past 12 months.
- have worked in Charnwood for the past 12 months.
- have owned or rented property in Charnwood for the past 12 months.
More information is available at www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/how_to_become_a_councillor
Charnwood borough councillors receive a basic allowance of £6,396 a year with additional special responsibility allowances for councillors in specific roles, such as Cabinet.
Karen Widdowson, the Council’s Head of Democracy, said: “Being a councillor is a rewarding opportunity to represent your community, influence local decision-making and help shape the future of Charnwood.
“Whether you have previous experience in public service or are considering standing for the first time, this event is a great chance to find out what the role involves, hear from current councillors and ask any questions you may have.”
The Be a Councillor event will provide information about the nomination process, standing for election and the role of a borough councillor.
Attendees will also be able to find out about the support available to councillors, including training and allowances.
Current councillors will share their experiences of serving in the borough and explain what the role involves on a day-to-day basis.
Town and parish councils tend to look after more localised services such as maintaining local parks, cemeteries and village halls, as well as representing community views on issues including planning applications.
Anyone wishing to attend will need to book a place in advance. To book a place or find out more information, contact the Democratic Services team by emailing democracy@charnwood.gov.uk.