Communicating about councillor roles

It is important for councils to be clear and transparent so that officers, councillors and residents understand the functions of the various roles held by councillors.

Decorative

Role profiles aim to:

  • ensure that councillors understand their role, responsibilities and expectations in order to work effectively in serving the community
  • provide councillors with a wider understanding of all other positions in the council
  • ensure the understanding of officers and the public of the different councillor roles
  • underpin the councillors allowance scheme
  • inform and support councillor development and PDPs.

The checklist below sets out examples from councils of the type of content that can be considered in writing role profiles.

Please email [email protected] to receive some example council documents.

Purpose

  • Purpose of role descriptions 
  • A note that the role descriptors are not exhaustive but outline the key functions and responsibilities, and that other activities not listed should not automatically be assumed to be outside of the role.  
  • Values and vision of the council, the integral role councillors play in achieving these, and linking the role descriptors to the objectives of the council.

Roles

  • Headings for each councillor role, including assistant portfolio councillors / cabinet associates, all panels, committees, lead councillors, champions, as well as including opposition roles, deputy roles, and external boards.
  • It can be useful (especially for new councillors) to include in the heading the number of councillors appointed to each position and how they are appointed.
  • Details for each role, duties, responsibilities, accountability, allowance, special responsibility allowance, any additional support available (for example, for mayors or group leaders).
  • Key personal attributes, skills and knowledge for each type of role – either set out under each role or linking to the general information in the strategy document or induction pack.
  • Key training relevant for each role – either set out under each role or linking to the full learning and development programme.