Every council will run an orientation programme for new members 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 or take part in a radio interview. Ongoing training will be provided according to what you need.
This e learning session will help you get started.
Councillors spend at least the equivalent of three days a week on council business, but many describe the job as full time. Many employers recognise the value of the work of councillors and the skills that their employees will gain in the role, so they give time off or allow flexible working for employees who are also councillors.
Councillors are entitled to receive a salary in return for the commitment and contribution they make.
All councillors receive a basic salary. In 2021/22 it is £14,368. 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. Councillors do not set their own salaries; the framework for councillors’ salaries is set by a body called the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales.
Councillors also have access to the local government pension scheme.
Councillors who have young families or caring responsibilities for other relatives or personal support needs can receive additional financial support as well as flexible working arrangements.
Councillors are entitled to a contribution towards the costs of care for those they care for, or for their own personal support.
Councillors are also entitled to paid ‘family absence’ arrangements around maternity, paternity and adoptive parental leave. The law is changing which will give councillors even more flexibility. Councillors are also entitled to paid ‘sickness absence’.
Councillors are surveyed at least once every term to determine the most convenient meeting times; unfortunately meeting times can be inconvenient for some as people often have different preferences – some young parents may prefer to meet during the day whilst others may prefer to meet in the evening, depending on child care availability or work commitments. However, there is often scope to be flexible around some committee or informal meetings.
Councils meetings can now be undertaken remotely. Councillors can attend online and can be provided with equipment to do this from home.