Learn about eligibility, elections, responsibilities, time commitments and support available for candidates standing for an election in Torquay, Paignton or Brixham.
Do you care about your community? Do you want to influence decisions that affect local people and help shape the future of Torbay?
Councillors play a vital role in improving the lives of residents. We are looking for people from all backgrounds, ages and experiences to consider standing for election.
You do not need political experience or formal qualifications. The skills and knowledge you have gained through work, family life, volunteering, education or community involvement could make you an excellent Councillor.
As a Councillor, you will be responsible for representing your community and making decisions about the services provided.
No specific qualifications or experience are required.
The next election for Torbay and Brixham Town Councillors will be held on Thursday 6 May 2027.
Whether you stand for a political party or as an independent, there are precise rules governing elections that will need your attention. For more information visit the Standing for Election page.
Any further questions about the process or to request a nomination pack please contact the Electoral Service team at electoral.registration@torbay.gov.uk
If you'd like to learn more about becoming a councillor, join us for an in-person information session on Wednesday 25 November at the Town Hall, Torquay, at 6.30 pm.
You'll hear from Chief Executive Anne-Marie Bond about the role of a councillor, what's involved in standing for election, key dates in the election process, and you can ask any questions you may have.
To register your attendance or to find out more, please email electoral.registration@torbay.gov.uk
Being a Councillor gives you the opportunity to:
Many Councillors find the role rewarding because they can see the direct impact of their work on local people and neighbourhoods.
We deliver services that affect residents every day, including:
Councillors help decide priorities, scrutinise decisions, represent local people and ensure public money is used effectively.
Councillors are elected to represent people living in their ward. Their responsibilities include:
Examples of the difference Councillors can make include:
We want our Councillors to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.
We encourage applications from:
To stand as a candidate at a local government election, you must:
You must also meet at least one of the legal qualification criteria relating to residence, electoral registration, property occupation or employment within the local authority area, and not be disqualified from standing.
Certain disqualifications apply, including in some circumstances for Council employees, individuals subject to bankruptcy restrictions, and those with certain criminal convictions or electoral offences.
For full details, please visit the Electoral Commission website.
No specific qualifications are required.
Useful skills include:
If elected, you will receive induction, training and ongoing support to help you succeed in the role.
How much time you put in as a Councillor is largely up to you and any additional commitments you choose to take on, such as being the Chairperson of a Committee.
There are a number of meetings which you will have to attend, and members of the public will want to discuss matters with you at the weekends or evenings on the telephone or in person.
The amount of time you need to set aside to carry out your Councillor role can range from between 5 to 20 hours per week. It depends on how much you want to get involved.
Once elected you can be a Councillor for a maximum of four years when the elections are held again.
You can choose to stand for election as an independent candidate or as a group/party political candidate.
Councillors receive a basic allowance in recognition of the time and responsibility involved in carrying out their duties.
Additional allowances may be available for specific positions of responsibility.
Support for approved caring responsibilities is available through Torbay Council's Members' Allowances Scheme.
Please note that the allowances you receive may affect any financial assistance you receive and are taxable - you should contact the agency that provides the financial assistance to find out how you may be affected.
We are committed to making local democracy accessible to everyone.
Reasonable adjustments and support can be discussed throughout the election process and during your time as a Councillor if elected.
We encourage disabled residents to contact us early to discuss any support requirements.
Whether you are already active in your community or are considering public office for the first time, we would love to hear from you.
By becoming a Councillor, you can help shape decisions, represent local people and make a lasting difference to Torbay.
Your community needs people with different experiences, ideas and perspectives. Could you be one of them?
To register your interest in becoming a councillor email electoral.registration@torbay.gov.uk.