What facilities / equipment will I have access to?
Each political group will have access to a private room on site at the Council buildings to host internal meetings. The Council Chamber provides Members with modern and accessible space to attend meetings, providing hybrid meeting facilities, providing Councillors the flexibility to join meetings remotely or in person.
All Councillors will be provided with digital support tailored to your needs including the provision of appropriate devices and technical assistance.
What support do councillors receive to help them in their role?
Every council will run an orientation programme f to show you where and who everyone is, followed by an induction programme to help you understand your role, council procedures and the practical skills you need, for example to chair a meeting.
Ongoing training is provided on a regular basis either through one to one or open forum basis This includes support on areas such as governance, digital skills, media engagement and the safe use of social media.
All Councillors also have access to the dedicated Research Officer within the Council Business Unit to assist Councillors in furthering their work.
The Council works hard to ensure it aligns with the Welsh Language Standards. Meeting documents are available bilingually in accordance with Welsh Language Standards and simultaneous translation is available at the majority of meetings.
I have a disability, will the Council provide the support I need?
Yes. The council will provide support to cater for your specific disability. The council will provide you with the access arrangements you need. Council buildings must be accessible by law for Disabled people.
Disabled candidates are entitled to funding to help with any additional costs associated with their impairment which could be a barrier to them standing as a councillor.
I have caring responsibilities , how could I be supported to undertake my role as a Councillor?
Councillors are entitled to a contribution towards the costs of care for those they care for, or for their own personal support. The schedule for Council meetings is arranged to avoid school holidays where possible. Hybrid meeting arrangements also provides flexibility in relation to attendance at meetings.
Do councillors get paid for their work?
All councillors receive a basic salary. Councillors are also entitled to travel allowances. You can also claim your salary whilst taking family absence such as parental leave.
Those councillors who undertake additional responsibilities such as being a cabinet member, committee chair or leader of their political group will receive an additional payment. This is called a senior salary and is calculated based on the size of the council. More information is available here.