Becoming a councillor

Who can be a councillor

We need people from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect the communities they serve to put themselves forward for election. You don’t need any experience or special qualifications.

To be a councillor you need to be:  

• British or a citizen of the Commonwealth. You may also be eligible as a citizen of the European Union, however the criteria has now changed
• at least 18 years old
• registered to vote in the area or have lived, worked, or owned property there for at least 12 months before an election.

You can’t be a councillor if you:  

• work for North Northamptonshire Council (you can work for another council as long as you are not in a political restricted post)
• are the subject of a bankruptcy restrictions order or interim order
• have been sentenced to prison for three months or more (including suspended sentences) during the five years before election day
• have been convicted of a corrupt or illegal practice by an election court
• are subject to any relevant notification requirements, or a relevant order, in respect of a sexual offence

Last updated 29 April 2025