Toolkits: Candidate Safety

Resources for political representatives that use digital tools as an integral part of their day-to-day work; to communicate with constituents, pick up casework, and gain feedback on decisions.

Blog: Understanding the Access to Elected Office Fund

The Access to Elected Office Fund provides financial support to disabled people campaigning for election by covering additional impairment-related costs.

Course: Preparing for Elected Office

This short training course has been developed to support anyone interested in or thinking about standing for election to be a councillor in Scotland.

Being a local councillor

Being a councillor involves a huge variety of work, some of which can be challenging, but is almost always hugely rewarding as you can make a real difference to individuals lives and to the area you represent.

The next Scottish local government elections are expected to take place in May 2027 to elect 1,226 councillors in Scotland’s 32 local authorities. If you are considering standing for election, this website will help you understand the many different aspects of a councillor's role, provide you with information to help you decide if being a councillor is for you and ensure you are well prepared should you be elected.

There are 4 main sections on this website:

This Preparing for Elected Office worksheet is a tool to help you think about how much you know about your area, as well as considering the bigger picture and the next steps to becoming a candidate.

In the video below Council Leader at Shetland Islands Council Emma MacDonald shares why she became a Councillor and why you should give it a go.

Did you know?

Did you know you don't have to belong to a political party to become a councillor in Scotland? 1 in 8 councillors in Scotland are Independent.