Councillors are elected to represent a number of local residents in an area called a ward. 

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is made up of 76 councillors that represent 33 wards.

The role of a councillor centres around community leadership and engagement.

Eligibility

You could be a councillor if you meet the criteria set out on the electoral commissions website. 

How To Apply

You must be nominated by a proposer, a seconder and eight other assentors 

These people must be on the electoral register for the ward you’re standing in.

You are entitled to a copy of the register if you stand. You will need to call us on 01202 451 122 before the election if you want to stand as a candidate.

If you would like a nomination pack, you can contact us by:

• telephone on 01202 451 122
• email at elections@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

You can find out further information about becoming a councillor:

• by reading our pre-candidacy guide
• on the Electoral Commission website
• on the Local Government Association website

There is also additional support available to you if you’re disabled and considering standing for elected office.

Election campaign support

You can appoint an election agent to help you:

• organise your expenses
• arrange public meetings
• display and issue advertisements or publications

You can do this yourself if you’d prefer. 

You’ll need to cover your campaign expenses, and declare them in your Return of Expenses.