
Become a Councillor
Becoming a Conservative councillor is a rewarding and impactful way to serve your local community. As a councillor, you will have the opportunity to shape local policies, improve services, and represent residents, making a real difference in people's lives.
Councillors bring fresh ideas, energy, and leadership to our community. Whether you're passionate about local issues, business growth, or community services, standing as a councillor allows you to be at the heart of decision-making.
Could You Be a Councillor?
To stand for election, you must:
✅ Be a British citizen, an Irish citizen, or an EU citizen residing in the UK.
✅ Be at least 18 years old on the day of nomination.
✅ Be on the electoral register for the council area where you’re seeking election or have lived or worked there for at least the last 12 months.
Becoming a Conservative Candidate
To stand as a Conservative Party candidate, you must be a member of the Party.
📝 Our selection process:
🔹 All current councillors must reapply to join the approved candidates' list.
🔹 Applications for the Candidates’ List will open on 1st July 202X.
🔹 Shortlisting and interviews will take place through August, September & October, led by our Deputy Chairman Political.
🔹 Successful candidates will be presented to ward members before May 202X for final selection.
Folkestone & Hythe Conservatives manage the selection process for council candidates across the district. By-elections will follow an emergency selection process.
📧 Interested in becoming a councillor? Email us at [email protected].
Support & Development
Community Champion Programme
The Conservative Councillors’ Association (CCA) has introduced the Community Champion Programme—designed to support and inspire future Conservative councillors. Through this scheme, you’ll gain insights, resources, and training to prepare for a role in local government.
📩 Find out more by emailing [email protected].
Be a Councillor Project
We also work with the Local Government Association's Be a Councillor Project, which encourages individuals from all backgrounds to step forward as candidates. It ensures councils reflect the communities they serve by attracting talented individuals with diverse experiences.
📘 Download the Be a Conservative Councillor Guide for insights from current councillors.
🌍 Visit www.beacouncillor.org.uk for more information.
🔹 Your community needs strong Conservative leadership—could you be part of the future?
Join us and help make a difference.
📩 Email us today: [email protected]