PEOPLE looking to make a difference are being urged to stand for election to Somerset County Council.
There are 55 seats available to be filled in the local elections on May 4 next year, each offering a chance to have an impact in the local community and get involved in the range of services provided by the council.
The authority is inviting potential candidates to get in touch and is hosting two welcome events for would-be councillors on the evenings of January 9 and 30.
Being held at County Hall in Taunton, they will offer the chance to find out more about the role of a county councillor and what is involved in standing to become one.
Pat Flaherty, the council’s chief executive and the returning officer for the elections, said: “We welcome applications from people from different kinds of backgrounds.
“You don’t have to belong to a political party or have previous experience. We want people who can bring their life experiences into the council and bring the voice of the local community into its policy making and decision processes.”
In return for their work with local communities and attending meetings and events, councillors will be given allowances, provided with IT equipment and offered training to help them in their role.
To register for a place at the welcome events, contact the Community Governance Team at [email protected] or on 01823 357628.
More information can also be found on the council’s website at www.somerset.gov.uk/elections