If you're passionate about making a difference in Central Bedfordshire, we encourage you to consider standing for election. Councillors play a vital role in shaping local services, representing residents within your ward, and influencing decisions that affect the daily lives of people across our communities.
This video provides an overview of the key responsibilities of the role and the difference councillors can make in their communities within Central Bedfordshire.
Find out how to become a town and parish councillor (NALC).
With the next election taking place on 6 May 2027, there has never been a better time to get involved and make a difference locally.
Come and talk to us about being a councillor
A ‘Be a Councillor’ event will take place on Thursday 15 October 2026 at 6:30pm at Priory House, Monks Walk, Chicksands, Shefford.
This is an opportunity to find out firsthand what it's like to be councillor at a unitary or town and parish council.
To register, email partnerships.communityengagementteam@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
Eligibility to stand as a candidate
To qualify as a candidate in the local elections you must be:
- at least 18 years old
- a British citizen, an eligible Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, a qualifying EU citizen or an EU citizen with retained rights
- registered to vote in Central Bedfordshire or have lived, worked, or owned property there for at least 12 months before an election
You can either stand to represent a political group, you must speak to your local branch, or stand as an independent councillor.
If you decide to stand as a candidate, or if you are elected, we have put together some guidance to help you stay safe and confident while canvassing, should any issues arise:
- guidance on personal safety (PDF, view in browser or download)
- avoiding online abuse and harassment (PDF, view in browser or download)
- guidance when canvassing (PDF, view in browser or download)
Nomination papers
Whether you are standing as a member of a political party or as an independent councillor, you will need to be officially nominated and this involves completing a set of nomination papers.
Get the papers from the Electoral Commission's website or email electoral.registration@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
Once elected as a councillor
You do not need previous experience to become a councillor. If elected, you will receive the training and support needed to carry out the role effectively. You will be entitled to claim an allowance in recognition of your duties and responsibilities.
You will be expected to attend committee meetings. With us, these take place in the daytime and evenings, and they mostly take place at Priory House.
Town and parish council meetings mostly take place during the evening.
All councillors abide by a code of conduct (PDF, view in browser or download); part of which requires them to declare any financial interests, gifts or hospitality that could influence any decisions they make.
More information
For more on whether you are eligible to stand for election and how to get involved: