Think you could be an Orkney islands councillor?

As the May local elections draw ever nearer, two online sessions are scheduled to help anyone interested in standing.

With many in Orkney Island Council stepping down, this May could see the biggest upheaval at School place for a generation.

If you think you have got what it takes, or if you are just curious, the events titled ‘So You Want to be a Councillor’ will cover what you need to know.

From the process for standing for election to the role of an elected member and including the extensive support and training that is available to successful candidates.

There will be councillors who can give first-hand experience of what it’s like to serve.

Officers form the council’s elections team, who will describe the steps you need to take to get your name on the ballot paper, and the support that is in place to help you settle into the role should you be elected.

Kirkwall West and Orphir councillor, John Richards, who will attend said:

“You are not thrown in the deep end – new Councillors are led through a thorough induction process and my own experience is that there is always someone within the Council willing to help guide you with any aspect of being a Councillor that you are unsure of.

“You really do have the opportunity to help local people and be part of the wider picture of championing our community in other arenas too, whether that is with Scottish and UK governments or with business and industry.

“You do not need to be from any particular walk of life – being a Councillor is for everyone to consider.

“There are of course times when you will be working hard to do your best for the community – but the rewards are immense for anyone who has the Orkney community at heart.”

The 90 minute So You Want To Be A Councillor sessions are:

Monday 7 March at 7pm – https://www.eventbrite.com/e/so-you-want-to-be-a-councillor-tickets-29029433717
Wednesday 9 March at 7pm : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/so-you-want-to-be-a-councillor-tickets-290311327997
To register for a session use the link to EventBrite or contact OIC Elections Manager Fiona Ratter at fiona.ratter@orkney.gov.uk