While the Scottish Parliament elections have just concluded, next year communities across Scotland will have another opportunity to use their vote and have their say - this time to elect local councillors, with the Scottish Local Government Elections scheduled for May 2027.
Becoming a councillor offers opportunities to make a real difference to local life – whether through involvement in developing policy that shapes local services, taking up issues on behalf of those you represent, advocating for better outcomes for the people and communities you represent, or indeed all of the above and more.
The Improvement Service in Scotland has a wealth of information about being a councillor and is offering a free short course, in partnership with the Open University, for anyone considering standing for election.
The course provides an overview of what councils and councillors do, how they work with national government, and what is expected of councillors in terms of skills, standards and partnership working. It’s free, you can do it online, and it provides a statement of participation on successful completion. You can find out more and sign up at OLCreate: PUB_10121_1.0 Preparing for elected office in Scottish local government
In addition, from 4th June, Elect Her (a support organisation for women in public life) is offering online workshops for women considering standing for election as councillors next year. These sessions are also free and there are both daytime/evening options available. They offer opportunities to speak with women who are currently serving as councillors in Scotland and will also cover campaigning and the process for standing for election as well as an overview of what councillors do. Find out more at Events + Workshops — Elect Her
Inclusion Scotland also operates the Access to Elected Office Fund, which supports people with disabilities to stand for election. Background information about this fund, and information about when it will open for the 2027 elections, can be found at Inclusion Scotland Access to Elected Office Fund.
